The Successful Writer’s Starter Kit

“It ain’t easy being green,” laments Kermit the Frog.  And “green” writers often find their newbie status equally distressing. After all, no one can argue that it can be a bit of a buzz kill.

Think about it. Often new and aspiring writers must contend with a lack of direction, a lack of discipline, a lack of experience, and no strategic game plan to fill in the blanks.Factor in rejection slips, family obligations, and a lack of funds, and it’s no wonder that many bail out before they get to see their creative dreams become a reality.

Perhaps you’re one of them. There’s a better way. You can go the distance with fewer detours and less stress, with a Success Starter Kit.

That’s right. Every successful writer once started just where you are. It doesn’t matter what their genre, age, or educational background. If they could do it, chances are, so can you. But you’ll need a little help; I like to call it a Success Starter kit.

A Starter Kit is simply the tools and resources needed to put you on the “write path,” to keep you moving in a positive, progressive direction.

Here’s what it should include in the beginning.

• Professional Business Cards
• A Well-designed Blog
• A Willing Mentor

Of course you’ll need other things as well, but these will be the foundation from which to build upon. If you’re on board, let’s look at each of these components more closely.

BUSINESS CARDS

First impressions are important. For this reason, you should invest in quality stock, professionally printed business cards with a logo, services offered, and current contact information. You just never know when someone at your child’s school, or a member at a church function may be in need of a speaker or writer for their next project or event. As a wise man once said, “If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready!”

Ditch the Post-its!

VistaPrint.com offers an array of choices at affordable prices.

A WELL DESIGNED BLOG

Nothing will take you from “rookie” to rock star status like a well-designed Blog.Blogs are the new black! Even real estate mogul Donald Trump has his own “virtual real estate.” Not only do blogs help writers to build their platform and reach new audiences worldwide, they convey a “serious image” to agents, editors and publishers. Additionally they enable writers to “work smarter, not harder” through links, guest posts, and social media activities. Without one, you’re not even in the same ballpark with your peers.

A WILLING MENTOR

You could go it alone. Many writers do. But why would you?  Having a mentor who has “been there and done that” offers a wealth of wisdom and support. In my career I have had several, depending upon my needs and my stage at the time. A mentor can be an author whose work you admire. It can be an accomplished online blogger in your niche, or it can even be someone in your local business community. Send them an email or letter of admiration requesting their help or advice. You can choose one or a combination of several. Just make sure to be polite, considerate of their time, and don’t wear out your welcome. J

Why not make 2016 a year to achieve your dreams and reach new heights? Equip yourself with the Success Starter Kit and enjoy a “happy ending” for your efforts.

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