9 Things Every Writer Needs for Success

A mental toolbelt to replenish as needed

Originally published on April 4, 2016

I have been writing things on and off since middle school and plan to continue for a long time. Here are some things I have found to be useful in my experience.

1. Something to write ideas on

I usually use the notes app on my phone. Some people like notebooks and pens. Whatever works for you, as long as you remember it. You never know when inspiration will hit you. I also have running text documents for each project where I can just free-write my ideas for pages at a time.

2. Something to write with

You probably won't write the next bestseller on your phone. Writers need some sort of text editor, whether is is simple like Microsoft Word or more complex like Scrivener. Even if you hand write everything, it needs to be converted digitally if it is going to be published.

3. A writing area

Every writer should have a place in their house or room or campus where they feel comfortable and can set up a laptop or paper. This is the magical area where all your ideas come to life so it should be treated as such. Keep schoolwork away from here, unless you are writing an opinionated paper where your individual voice is needed.

4. An audience

It could be you favorite stuffed animal. It could be your pet. It could be your mom. Your writing serves no purpose unless you are doing it for someone, and it is normal if that person is just you.

5. Old/unused projects

These can be used for inspiration, but for me they remind me of where I used to be and how much better I am now, no matter how bad I think my writing is. Even your free-writes turn into more developed ideas that turn into something even bigger. They are important, too. Do not throw anything away.

6. Images

Draw what your character/object/setting looks like. If you can't draw, Google until you find something that suits you. Your characters need to be well-rounded and seem alive. Having them stare back at you seems to do the trick. Words can intimidate, but so can eyes. Sometimes seeing your setting makes the world seem more real as well.

7. Music

If your creative minds are anything like mine, sometimes they need extreme focus or nothing will get done. Distractions happen, and later you find you didn't really get anything done. Music, probably instrumental, is a good way to block out outside stimuli and keep creativity flowing at the same time.

8. Motivation

Give yourself a deadline to write a certain amount of words or figure out some backstory. Join a writing contest. Have some chocolate sitting on the edge of your desk for when you are done. Design a book cover. Practice giving interviews as a new household name author. Whatever it takes to get something accomplished.

9. Belief in yourself

If you enjoy turning your thoughts into words, you are a writer. You have a power and a gift and you need to use it. Every person has a story to tell. You just need to trust that you can bring it to life.