I began a writing series of posts some time ago to all the aspiring writers who may happen upon this blog. Part one addressed the need for preparing oneself, part two spoke of the need to hone one's craft, part three taught on the importance of reading to the art of writing, and part four focused on the importance of relationships. In the fifth...

Tip #4: Relationships Are Key

We’ve all heard someone utter the following phrase: “It’s not what you know; it’s who you know.” As kitschy cliché as it may be, there is some truth in that, even for writers.

Many would-be writers today think that the way to succeed as a writer is simply to improve your writing skills. If I become a great writer,...

Tip #3: Good Writers are Good Readers

I’ve had many writing teachers over the last few years, though I’ve never met most of them and some of them were dead. Of course, you don’t have to be physically in one’s presence to learn from them. You can learn from someone through the transmission of their ideas and studying their work.

In my last post,...

Tip #2: Hone Your Craft

We’ve all heard a pastor, basketball coach, or parent use “the muscle analogy” when referring to the importance of practice. The point is well taken: when it comes to any life skill, you have to work if you want to grow and develop. The same thing holds true for writing.

One of my mentors told me years ago that if I wanted...

When I felt a calling to be a writer in October of 2004, I was completely unqualified. I had no formal education in the field. My Bachelor's degree was in Biology, which is about as helpful for breaking into the writing world as a degree in knitting, and I tested out of all college-level English courses except one in Civil War Literature....