Episode 2.14 – How We Go From Idea to Done

Writing is more than typing frantically at a keyboard. Alas, we get ideas and have to work them into stories, while making sure that the final product meets our original intent and the desires of our readers. What does that process look like?

Recommendation:

  • Check out Author Accelerator, a service that helps you move through the full process of writing a novel.

 

Download episode 2.14.

Episode 2.12 – How to Self-Edit Economically

Previously, we talked about how self-editing is a no-no. But that’s not entirely valid. Self-editing is an important part of the process, when applied properly and not overexerted. How do you go about it? What kind of limitations do you need to set?

Recommended Reading:

Prompt:

Set a timer and edit a chapter, sticking strictly to a superficial edit.

 

Download episode 2.12.

Episode 2.11 – Am I Ready to Publish?

You’ve been refining and revising your book forever. You’ve got a beautiful cover and the book’s been edited by a pro. The question remains: am I ready to publish? How do you know when it’s time to hit publish?

Recommended Reading:

Prompt:

Create a checklist (or use the list from the Steven James book) and review your closest-to-publication work. Does it meet the criteria?

Listen to the episode here.

Episode 2.10 – Where We Write

Where do you write? Do you have a special place that fills you with inspiration? Do you sit? Do you stand? Do you work at a cafe? In silent sequestration?

Where’s best?

Recommended Reading:

Prompt:

Try switching up where you write. Take notes about where you feel most productive or inspired.

 

Download episode 2.10.

Episode 2.08 – Sleep: go get some.

As much as we love stimulants and late-night writing sessions, sleep is a very important of personal maintenance. It’s vital to your success and health. No two ways about it. Enough of the “never stop working” idea. We need rest.

Recommendation:

Prompt:

Try to go to bed one hour before you usually do. See what happens.

 

Download episode 2.08.

Episode 2.06 – Why Every Writer Should Read

It seems fairly straightforward, but we’re here today to talk about why every writer should read. How much of your time should you spend reading? What kind of stuff should you read? What should you not read?

Recommended Reading:

Prompt:

Get a book on craft. Read it.

 

Download episode 2.06.

Episode 2.05 – Dealing With Book Reviews

When you publish your book, there’s a chance—no, a guarantee—that someone won’t like it. It’s easy enough to deal with positive reviews. You share them, get excited, and move forward. What happens when you get a bad review? What should you do?

Recommended Reading:

Prompt:

Read several reviews of an author you greatly admire. Pay attention to patterns. What are the good patterns? What are the critical issues that come up often?

 

Download episode 2.05.