It’s been a hell of a long time since I did a post about writing.
Well, here goes – this post is inspired by the guest post Elizabeth Bear did on Charles Stross’ blog a few days back.
I suggest you go and read it, as it gives us a perspective on the writing life that’s not usually covered in how-to-be-a-writer handbooks.

Let’s recap – making a living as a writer is hard.
To try and make it, one has to be a prolific writer – one has to write fast and good, and a lot and (this as a side note from a non-native speaker) in a language not their own.
We need to write on spec – meaning, trying to come up with ideas and stories suitable for the market we are trying to break in. We have to spend time scanning open calls and submission guidelines to stay in the game. We face anxiety, rejection, and the often scathing opinion of the readers.
It’s all part of the package.

And no, I’m not complaining – granted, my “real job” should be studying ancient ecosystems and long-dead animals, but as things stand now, this writing thing is a lot of fun, and it keeps the director of my bank happy as it allows me to keep my account (barely) in the green.
And writing is so fun that I’m also keeping two blogs, I’m working on gaming projects, and I keep looking for further opportunities.

But it can be a soul-crushing kind of job sometimes – and it should not.
Add to the mix the way in which Real Life(R) has a habit of throwing you the odd curve ball, and things can get pretty hard.
So, taking my lead from Elizabeth Bear’s post, here’ smy assorted list of strategies to
a . keep having fun writing
b . write more and (hopefully) better
c . hit those curve balls out of the park

Mind you, I’m no guru, and these are no sure-fire systems – but they seem to have worked so far with me, and I hope they may help. Continue reading →