The Joy of Writing

We all work extremely hard already as writers. To be told that we have to do more is not an easy thing to hear. But the truth is that, unless we stay on top of things in particular ways, the harsh financial facts of life will catch up with us.

Luckily, the answers are pretty simple.

To have high financial volume as a writer, you need only

(a) Write like crazy within established patterns

This isn’t about wasting your own time and that of others by writing without paying attention to the rules - this is about learning the patterns and conventions which make stories really work. Learn them, practice them and then write within them with style! The best solutions for the piece of fiction you are working on are already built into the underlying patterns of it.

(b) Make it a pleasant and happy thing as possible to work as a writer.

Lots of people want to be writers because it’s a great job. And it is! You are in control of your schedule, your inner life, your output. Writers are generally fantastic people too. Make it worthwhile to be one with all that you do and say. Treat each other with courtesy and respect.

(c) Write on a highly personal basis - be passionate, attuned and clear!

Timetable yourself briskly and oversee your own progress alertly. Look at your work schedule every week and see how your targets look and act accordingly.

It's all about new horizons, a better future, an invitation to readers to really understand and come to love your work and therefore life. When this is played down, put alongside ordinary jobs, it's being betrayed. The atmosphere of what you are doing is a lot more important than money.

Be a rebel, a free thinker - and get results.

d) Write to readers, respond to comments on social media (politely). Do your best to get communication pouring out!

Your work should be a second home to readers. Create an atmosphere which encourages them to linger; make it pleasant and the better option for them to stay.

Open the door to readers and keep it open.

e) Use the data in How Stories Really Work.

There are a lot of story-writing methods out there.

How Stories Really Work is refreshingly wonderful and simple. Set out to really understand the secret language of fiction, to get to know it well, to come to love it. It’s a uniformly workable way of familiarising yourself with the underlying patterns in fiction, no matter what the genre.

Of course, success in our society is measured by quantities and material gains. Pure joy doesn’t pay bills. You are considered basically successful or unsuccessful by your balance sheet. It’s just a measure. Good income means good food and a roof over your head. You might not be in it for the money, but it matters. But apply the basics of How Stories Really Work and your pockets should soon be overflowing.