How to Develop Your Writing Skills - Part Three

This may seem trivial to some of you, but bear with me. I may not have all the answers, but this one I do know. If you do not have a passion for your subject matter, you will most likely fail. In a nutshell . . . write what you know and love. If you aren't excited about your subject matter, how do you expect others to be?

If you do nothing else with your writing, follow the above words. They are not my invention, but I follow them religiously. After all, a writer's lot in life (even part time) is difficult enough (especially if you are looking for fame and/or fortune), so follow your passion when writing, especially if you are a beginning student of the written word. You can branch out over time, but it's best to start with the familiar.

Write the words that motivate you. Write as if the destiny of your soul depended on it. For many of us, it really does. Who is better qualified to write your book and share your experiences than you? No one else will bring your unique perspective to the story, the guide book, the memoirs, and the life lessons. Whether your genre be fiction, non-fiction, operating manuals, or life-transforming text books for the education of our youth, you carry a personal experience that tempers your perspective, your relationships, and your writing. Whatever excites you . . . get it in print!

Listen to that small voice within. I said it earlier, but I'll say it again . . . follow your passion. Share the part of your life that makes you tick, that turns you on. It doesn't have to be work related. Your passion could be your family or the foods that you love to cook (do the words "recipe book" come to mind?). What keeps you going may be a hobby like fishing, woodworking, gardening, biking, or bingo. Go with what gives you energy when you are sharing it with others. Stay away from the subjects that leave you feeling physically and emotionally drained. Follow your gut instinct, (do your research), and write your heart out. Your enthusiasm will automatically spill over into your written words.