Ask the Author: Alicia M. Smith
Answered Questions (4)
Alicia M. Smith
As cliché as this may sound, I awoke in the middle of the night and "it" simply came to me. I was emotionally and physically distraught--and had been for quite some time. I knew I needed to acquire wisdom from others in order to move forward. I didn't want to walk this path alone anymore, and I most definitely couldn't "find my way" on my own. So I sought out anyone that would speak to me--those that had been through experiences that I couldn't even imagine enduring. I absorbed their words...their emotions...their wisdom. I then compiled their stories for others to benefit from as well. I even walked away from my full-time job in order to do so. One of the best things I've ever done. My life was forever changed.
Follow your instincts. It could be the best thing you ever do.
Follow your instincts. It could be the best thing you ever do.
Alicia M. Smith
For young writers:
1. Zero-in on what you're passionate about. Make a list of three to five things. Practice writing about them and see what comes most naturally, as well as what excites you the most.
2. Write every day. Set a goal of 500 words (or something similar) and practice writing each day, making it routine.
3. Take a typing class.
4. If you're passionate about another subject besides writing, perhaps look into combining both of your passions in school (pursuing them both, to a certain extent), so that you'll be capable of writing about your passion as a career in the future, if you so choose. Writing quality niche content is a great way to succeed!
5. Read as much as possible. This helps you in a lot of ways, but one specifically is, you'll learn to recognize great writing, and conversely ... awful writing. ;) More specifically, what to do and what not to do.
6. Follow blogs revolving around your passions. This will continue to feed those passions and hone your knowledge/skills. But make sure to follow a publishing blog as well; it's important to keep up with this industry and realize what it will take when you do get to that point. Follow a couple of writers that you admire (on social media and/or their blogs). Also, take a peek at this list when you have time--great resources! ~ 40 of the Best Websites for Young Writers (http://study.com/articles/40_of_the_B...)
7. Write at school. Perhaps a writing club/group (these can also be found outside of school)? School newspaper? Yearbook contributor? Anything. These are great ways to practice, as well as are early resume builders.
8. If you feel ready for it, start your own blog through WordPress or another site. Even if you're only writing to hone your passions and perfect your skills, it may be an early seed to many followers/fans! It's not expensive either.
9. Please know that there will be rejection. (Criticism will come, but some can be helpful. Welcome constructive criticism. It makes us better writers.) Be ready for it. BUT, also remember this quote (by Robert D. Smith, I believe - loosely paraphrased), "Every 'No' you receive brings you closer to your 'Yes'." Remember that when things are tough. Refuse to give up!
1. Zero-in on what you're passionate about. Make a list of three to five things. Practice writing about them and see what comes most naturally, as well as what excites you the most.
2. Write every day. Set a goal of 500 words (or something similar) and practice writing each day, making it routine.
3. Take a typing class.
4. If you're passionate about another subject besides writing, perhaps look into combining both of your passions in school (pursuing them both, to a certain extent), so that you'll be capable of writing about your passion as a career in the future, if you so choose. Writing quality niche content is a great way to succeed!
5. Read as much as possible. This helps you in a lot of ways, but one specifically is, you'll learn to recognize great writing, and conversely ... awful writing. ;) More specifically, what to do and what not to do.
6. Follow blogs revolving around your passions. This will continue to feed those passions and hone your knowledge/skills. But make sure to follow a publishing blog as well; it's important to keep up with this industry and realize what it will take when you do get to that point. Follow a couple of writers that you admire (on social media and/or their blogs). Also, take a peek at this list when you have time--great resources! ~ 40 of the Best Websites for Young Writers (http://study.com/articles/40_of_the_B...)
7. Write at school. Perhaps a writing club/group (these can also be found outside of school)? School newspaper? Yearbook contributor? Anything. These are great ways to practice, as well as are early resume builders.
8. If you feel ready for it, start your own blog through WordPress or another site. Even if you're only writing to hone your passions and perfect your skills, it may be an early seed to many followers/fans! It's not expensive either.
9. Please know that there will be rejection. (Criticism will come, but some can be helpful. Welcome constructive criticism. It makes us better writers.) Be ready for it. BUT, also remember this quote (by Robert D. Smith, I believe - loosely paraphrased), "Every 'No' you receive brings you closer to your 'Yes'." Remember that when things are tough. Refuse to give up!
Alicia M. Smith
Taking our dog, Bagel, for a walk always helps my mind relax and gets my creativity flowing. However, to be honest, I almost lean toward prevention from writer's block, if at all possible. I do this by always keeping an electronic "notepad" open on my phone. When I'm listening to a song, watching a movie, driving, can't sleep, etc., often I have these sparks of inspiration. Something moves me, and my mind immediately starts to produce a stream of thought that excites me. As soon as I am able, I pull up my trusty notepad and type. Anything and everything. I don't worry about perfection ... it's just words on "paper" at this point. Then, the next time I'm sitting down at my computer to write, I have a solid footing upon which to start. I pull up my notes and let them lead me....
How about you? Do you enjoy writing, and if so, how do you deal with writer's block?
How about you? Do you enjoy writing, and if so, how do you deal with writer's block?
Alicia M. Smith
I learn a lot about myself in the process. Typically my material not only comes from research, it also comes from a lot of introspection. I learn more and more about myself as I go, as I truly hope my readers do! As a result, I feel stronger and more self-assured with every page/article that I publish. In turn, I pray that my readers feel my authenticity and connection to many of their experiences!
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