Does a writer have to write everyday?

It sounds like a tongue twister when you say it fast enough. A writer must write every day. When I hear those words, I wonder if it's merely another one of those things we're told we should do by people who make very blanket statements without consideration for the lifestyle of the writer or, perhaps, even proof that it makes a difference. 

Now, before someone jumps down my fucking throat, I'm going to start by saying that I'm not a crazy successful writer. I don't pretend to be an expert about anything, but I've gone through phases where I wrote every day, and I've gone through phases where I didn't. I honestly saw little in the way of a difference. 

Of course, having always been a writer on the side, it simply wasn't always an option. It depends a great deal on my schedule and inclination. I don't like hard and fast rules that shame those who can't follow them. Being told to write every day sits on the same unstable shelf as the one that insists you stress over your daily word count. And you don't want to get me started on that one.

I've written 18 books and (what feels like) a million blogs and I can guarantee that I never check my word count, and I don't write every day. I don't believe the creative process works very well when a writer feels pressured to perform. I also don't think it means that the work you do will necessarily be stellar if the focus is more on fixating on following this suggestion. 

Chances are good that both these rules were started by a writing school teacher when there was far less on the average person's daily agenda. The world moves fast, and a part of being a writer is observing what is going on around you, something that, as it happens, does require time. 

If I had to come up with my own rules for writers, it would be to open your eyes and pay attention to what is happening in the world. Are you getting a sense of how people feel? What are you hearing a lot? What's standing out to you? What are the books you're currently reading missing?

 

Of course, you shouldn't take five years to complete the first draft of your manuscript either. Unless you're writing a very in-depth research book, obviously, that's a different can of worms. But there has to be some reasonable middle ground. Be logical, and don't listen to the so-called experts. 

You're the expert on you. If you have issues being self-motivated, maybe you have to write every day. If you have a million other things going on and can't get your head into it, don't be too hard on yourself. Maybe it's simply time to process. Unless you nurture your soul, you have nothing to give.

Why you might like my books (even if you don't normally read) 🤔

Over the years, many people have told me they would read my book, but they aren't readers. In other words, they didn't have the time or weren't interested in reading a book. I never took offense to this because I can completely understand. As it is, I barely have time to read a page of a book some days, especially when life gets busy. 

My books are probably a little bit different. I try to essentially cut the crap out that makes people not want to read a book. What are those things?

 In my opinion, things like over-the-top descriptions of every detail of every room can be a bit too much for some readers. Don't get me wrong! I know some of you love that kind of thing, but if you aren't a reader (and you're busy) chances are, you might skip over that part because it's too much. 

I also write short chapters. I think short chapters make it a little easier to digest a story. You can find time to read a few short pages and feel you've accomplished something. 

Of course, I try to write a book that moves quickly and has compelling characters and storylines. I feel this is more important than going over the top to impress readers with your vast vocabulary. Sometimes, in fact, that can turn people off. 

What kind of things would make you read more? 

What are your writing fears? 😱

If you always wanted to write a book but never started, what is the reason? Is it because you lack the time? Are you intimidated by the process? Do you have writing fears?

Writing a book is like eating an elephant; it's a one-bite-at-a-time process. You might only have a few free hours a week. You mightn't be able to write enough words. You may have a general idea but aren't sure how to communicate them. Many reasons might keep you from writing that book, but don't let that hold you back. If you want to write, start slow and see where it takes you. 

Remember, you don't have to share your writing with anyone. You don't have to announce you're about to write the next best-seller. You can work on it over months or years. You can start tomorrow and decide it's not for you. But I would recommend starting, even if that means writing a blog for your eyes only. Writing is cathartic. It doesn't have to have a purpose.

Concerns such as grammar, plots, and word counts shouldn't hold you back. I only check my word count when I finish a book. I don't care how many words I write per day. I never know the entire plot when I start a book. I allow it to flow naturally and see where it takes me. I don't worry about grammar because there are apps that can catch a lot, and friends and family will catch the rest. 

To learn more, check out my writing playlist for tips and ideas. 

Why you should write your own book 🤓

Throughout the years, I've had a lot of people inquire if I could potentially help them write a book. Sometimes it's fiction, but usually non-fiction, and most of the time, a memoir. I'm sincerely flattered, but I always decline. And I will tell you why.

Although there are the most logical reasons (not enough time being the top of the list) it's always more about feeling like I'm not best suited to tell someone else's story. Now I know what you're thinking. Many people have ghostwriters (sadly, much more common than you realize), but I'm not convinced that someone else writing your stories is the best solution. The truth is that only you can most effectively communicate the narrative. You know the highlights and where the emphasis should be, not to mention the overall theme you wish to convey. Sadly if someone else tells your story, even with the best intentions, it will be difficult for them to align with what is going through your heart and mind.

A perfect example would be if you had a picture in your mind. You can find the best artist in the world, but simply describing it won't give you the final image you had hoped for because some things are hard to communicate. And sometimes artists are only sure once you're working on their art. How many times have authors admitted that the book they started to write quickly became something completely different? I know it's happened to me.

I always encourage people to write their own stories. If they need help along the way or advice, I can certainly try to help them, but it's their story to tell. It's cathartic and necessary for some people to tell the story they feel passionate about and want to share with the world. 

Do you have a story in you?