How to Get Started With Writing in New Year

Happy new year, fellow writers. I am often told by new authors that they think writing a book is too much work or too daunting a task, yet they always tell me that they think they should write a book. To start the new year, I thought it would be good to give some tips on reducing your stress over writing fiction.

1. Set Goals -- January is the perfect time to set goals for the year. This applies to all writers and business owners. You want the goals to be realistic. For example, "I will write every day." Set a date for when you want it completed. Set another date for editing and marketing.

2. Break Down the Project -- Before you start your work, break down the big project (a completed book) into smaller parts: outline, 10 pages a day or one chapter a week, first draft completed, edited draft, completed manuscript and published. This helps to make it not so daunting a task. Remember, a book is either 6x9 or 8.5x5.5, which means those 10 pages are really half pages.

3. Decide Title and Characters -- I like to start with a title and the main characters (protagonist male, protagonist female and villain). When I have a title, the book becomes real in my head. If you are having trouble getting started, come up with a title for your book. Then, you will want to see that title become more.

4. Don't Let it Be a Chore -- Writing should be fun and enjoyable. If it feels like an obligation, you should not do it. Wait a month or too and see if that changes your perspective. Some people are not meant to write. That is why God gave each person unique gifts.

How are you starting your writing year? Let me know in the comments.

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