Want to be a writer?

The way to become a writer is simple.

Not easy, but simple.

Write.

That's it.

Write.

If you can write only one minute a day - creating your own work or copying someone else's (ONLY as an exercise! Not for publication!) - start writing. You can build from there.

The only way to write and get better at writing is to write.

Taking class after class of how to write, reading a bazillion books teaching you how to write, and watching every CD or DVD on the subject will NOT help you become a great, successful or accomplished writer.

Only writing and writing and writing will do that.

I know lots of people who have spent thousands of dollars on classes, books, CD's and DVD's about writing - but all it did was confuse them or make them feel like they were doing something to actually create a life of being a writer ... without writing.

Lots of professional writers check out these contributions to their craft for new insights or to support a friend's writing project, but not place of of writing every day!

Books, classes, CD's, etc., are fine as long as you continue to write, write, write.

It's the only way one succeeds at anything.

I write this today because I'm working with a couple of people who have been writing for awhile under my tutalege whose work is really kicking into high gear, these wordsmiths have become very professional. One of whom has already been making money for his writing for several months.

Recently he told me, "You know, there's really something to what you said about becoming a good writer. The more you do the better you get."

Um, right.

He's very excited about his future as a writer and he should be.

My other writer is a kiss away from being qualified to get a newswriting job at any major market TV station.

I'm delighted. And it all stems from the drive and willingness to do what it takes to write as much as they must to continue to improve the quality of their work.

When people realize what I do, they inevitably tell me they've "always wanted" to write a book or screenplay or article.

It's not enough to want to do anything. The only thing that makes it happen in real life is to write.

And write and write and write.

Oh, and reading tons of good stuff doesn't hurt, either. Especially if you find someone who creates work that you're *crazy* about!

Hopefully? One day that person whose writing you love will be *you!*