When it comes to writing a book, most of us would agree that inspiration is a key ingredient. Yet inspiration alone is not enough. The sparks of inspiration need to be fanned into the flames of action for creative potential to manifest both on the page and in the world.
Inspiration is the first stage in the creative process. Writers who know their sources of inspiration and immerse themselves regularly in situations rich with potential never run out of ideas for their writing.
As the creative wheel turns, inspiration flows naturally into the realm of imagination where details are added. Here the original impulse expands and new, often unexpected possibilities, unfold.
Yet without appropriate action, all of this remains in the realms of creative potential. Inspiration needs action to manifest its full spectrum of colors for everyone to benefit from and enjoy.
As writers, we need to understand that this creative dynamic applies to every stage of writing a book and becoming a successful published author – whatever form that takes and whatever definition of “success” is appropriate for us as individuals.
Inspiration and action combine for your words to meet the page and for connections to be made directly with your readership through your platform-building activities.
Obvious though this may be to some, understanding and applying what you know to your own situation each and every day takes real focus and commitment.
So here are 3 tips to support you to combine inspiration and action, with the emphasis on “taking action”:
- Create deadlines to work towards for each stage of the writing journey you are currently on.
These can relate to making sure that you complete your writing within a reasonable time frame or take the steps you need to take in order to make progress as an author in the world.
Set a series of deadlines that move you forwards one step at a time and schedule these in your diary. Then shift into gear and ensure that you complete what you need to do on time.
You can always refine the dates along the way if necessary but it’s good training for all writers to be able to work to deadlines.
- Find a writing “buddy” or join a writer’s group for mutual support and peer group feedback.
The isolation of the writing process can be offset by sharing your progress with one or more other writers who understand the bumps in the writing road.
If you don’t know anyone else in your area who is writing a book, ask at your local library or book shop to see if they know of a good writing group you can approach.
Alternatively, you can easily connect with other writers online and arrange to check in once a week or once a month to discuss the progress you have made.
- Go the extra mile and make sure you have the right information, guidance and support at a professional level when you’re ready to make real progress with your authorship.
There’s no doubt that professional input that provides a framework of supportive accountability can be a life-changing experience for writers.
Whether you have help to get started, to take your writing to a new level and/or to navigate the world of publishing and platform-building, make sure that you work with professionals who genuinely have the expertise you need.
Check out the track record and experience of the many people offering support for writers in the marketplace today and ensure that they are walking their talk by achieving the results you want to achieve.
Thousands of writers around the world are successfully combining inspiration and action to fulfill their writing dreams – are you one of them?
REFLECTION: What works for you in relation to taking action with your writing ideas? Have you found it helpful to work with other writers in some way? Share your reaction to this article and your own experience with your fellow writers in the comments below.
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