You may have heard that, as writers, we need to write every day—no matter what. I would agree with that, but I (who am not an expert by any means) would say that it really doesn’t matter what we write, as long as we stay in the habit of writing.

We may need to catch up on letter writing, blogging, answering emails, writing Thank You notes, and so on. Let’s not forget the occasional magazine article, Letter to the Editor, or skit for a club or church group.  These take time, of course, and use writing skills, too. So, they may be just as valuable in developing our writing abilities as in our writing that is devoted strictly to our “books.”

The point is, each of us hone our writing skills in different ways. The important thing is that we don’t get lazy and forget what we’re about. Writing is just like any other habit. If it isn’t cultivated, it dies on the vine.

I heard the saying, years ago, that the only way out of the forest is through (the trees). And, it follows that the only way to get a book written is to write!

So, let’s say you’re caught up on all the other kinds of writing in your life. It’s 2:00 in the afternoon. What should you do? Take a walk? Maybe. Eat a piece of left over birthday cake? If it’s chocolate. Call or text a friend and make plans for the weekend? Why not? But, now it’s 3:15. Should you take a nap?

May I suggest that you sit down in front of the computer and read the last few lines you wrote, yesterday? Then, write until exhaustion sets in.

When you have given it your all and you have no more to give, go ahead and go to bed, early. After all, you didn’t take that nap…

Brenda