Tamara Hanson

Easy Reading is Damn Hard Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Fri, 17 Jun 2016 05:46:00 +0000

Easy reading is damn hard writing.

How many times have you read a book and thought, "Wow. This author really knows how to write a story! I wish I could write like this."

From that writer's viewpoint, they are more than likely arguing with themselves about how the story should go. You know they are critiquing their work and proclaiming that they are the worst writer of all time. They, too, are staring at the page waiting for the words to magically appear fully formed and written in the most beautiful prose possible. It's not uncommon. Elizabeth Gilbert said that she has had to sweat and labour and toil with her writing process, only to catch glimpses of the creative muse.

I struggle with this process, too. There are times when I can come up with beautiful sentences in my head, but when I put them onto the computer or on paper, it comes out weird and awkward.

Writing is a long process and I don't think many people can appreciate the time spent in creating that piece of work. Anything creative takes time. And, there is always the big possibility that people will hate it. On the other hand, people might love it. It's always subject to interpretation by the person experiencing the creative work, whether it is a book, a song, or art.

I recently painted my very own version of The Kiss by Klimt. This is my own expression, and it's one that I am happy with. I'm so happy with it that I will probably to it again.

Pablo Picasso said, "Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working." You can't be sitting on your ass, watching TV, waiting for inspiration to strike. You have to get at it, even if you don't really want to. I liken it to going to kickboxing. There are a million and one ways I can talk myself out of not going to kickboxing. But, I love it when I'm doing it and I love it when I'm done.

Jack London said, "You can't wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club." Whatever way is going to get you there, that's the way you take. If it means writing out a grocery list to start with, then do it. Yes, writing can be hard, but, it can only be as hard as you make it.

I recently published my book Just Between You and Me. It was something I started back in 2003 and it was time to get this book (and a few others I had written) out to the public. Formatting and proofing this thing was a slow process with no guarantee that I would be compensated for my efforts.

Does it matter? Somewhat. The point is, I just want to create and to share my work with the world. If they like it, awesome. If not? Nothing I can do about it. I just want to do what I love to do. Why? Because I've worked hard for it and it makes me happy. Isn't that what it's all about?

Purpose

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Sun, 28 Feb 2016 20:28:00 +0000

We all have a purpose in life whether we think we do or not.

A few years ago, I questioned my work and if I was really offering a service or helping others through my writing. If I'm 'just' writing novels, how am I helping others? How am I being of service to others?

I love writing and I feel very passionate about it; however, my passion wasn't the issue. The issue was, how was I helping others?

I wanted to provide some value to help others grow. Writing wasn't solely about me and what my heart wanted; it was also about the bigger picture.

And that's what it's about. Writing (or whatever your work is) isn't just about you. This the fallacy in life and that's what people struggle with daily: thinking that it's just about us as individuals. Separated.

What's my purpose? Thinking that it's only about getting the golden ticket, whatever that looks like, is erroneous.

As Stephen King says in the quote above, whatever we do, whatever our purpose, it isn't about the fame, notoriety, the chicks or the men. It isn't about living next to Steven Spielberg, Stephen King, or Stephen Amell.

It isn't about getting chummy with J.K. Rowling or Neil Gaiman. It also isn't about proving a point to your spouse, your ex, or even to the kids who had bullied you in school 20 years ago.

It's actually about living your passion and doing what you love. It's about self-expression and creativity, and about enhancing other's lives, providing a new perspective, inspiration, and greater enlightenment while contributing to the bigger picture. It's not one or the other--it's all of the above.

If your work is enriching your life as well as the lives of other people, you have tapped into your passion and your purpose.

www.tamarahanson.ca

Don't Give Up Your Creativity

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 20:34:00 +0000

Albert Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.”

Here is the thing about creativity: It is the foundation from which all things spring forth. Amazing ideas are born from creativity, from your creative imagination. Creativity is paramount to keep the world spinning.

As children, we are extremely creative. Our imaginations run wild with creating games, making up stories, problem solving, and on how life should be lived on a daily basis.

Then, our creativity diminishes the older we get. Now we have to think 'realistically' and 'logically'. What happened to those days of being creative? Why can't being creative be a requirement in life? Why can't it be nurtured? Being creative means thinking outside the box, thinking beyond those things that have been indoctrinated into our lives. Usually, society wants to hold us back from thinking and creating; society knows that creativity changes things ...and we all know how people hate change.

Several times, I have heard friends say they were going to give up their creative aspirations because it wasn't working for them; because others weren't see their talent. When do we ever have to wait for another's permission to be creative? Just be creative. If you have to take a job to pay the bills while doing your creative ventures, then do so. If being creative through writing, art, music, dance etc. makes your soul sing, then keep doing it! The only other alternative is a soul-sucking creative-less life. Is that what you want?

Alan Alda said, “The creative is the place where no one else has ever been. You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of your intuition. What you’ll discover will be wonderful. What you’ll

discover is yourself.”

Keep on creating, dear friends!

Honouring Your Time

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Sun, 24 May 2015 17:40:00 +0000

I haven't been here for a few weeks. I got trapped inside this vortex of 'things: 'Things that kept my attention and, when I looked at them, weren't important.

We all get sidetracked by 'things'. Things that take our focus away from what's important, and, in my case, my writing.

It's time to bring this back around to what matters.

If your writing is important to you, then do it. Make sure that others know that the time you set aside for writing is sacred to you. This is so crucial. Just as important as it is for someone to set aside time for family and friends, set aside time to be creative. This is what feeds your soul. This is what you live for.

I can't impress upon you enough the importance of making time for your craft. If you don't make a concerted effort for even 5 minutes a day to focus on writing, you'll find yourself turning on your computer and realizing it's been 30 days since you last sat down to write. Yes. It happens. I know this from first hand experience.

Please do yourselves a huge favour: Schedule time in to write. If it's important to you, your loved ones will understand.

Keep on writing!

Finding the Sweet Spot

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 13 Apr 2015 17:28:00 +0000

Finding that thing that makes us 'sing' can be a bit frustrating. We try our hand at different genres, different creative outlets, spinning the writing roulette wheel, not really knowing where it's going to land. We know that finding that 'thing' is where the creative sweet spot is. It's the place where we can get our writing groove on.

I love writing fiction stories because you can take them anywhere you want to. However, I recently discovered a new focus for myself, something that is near and dear to my heart.

After experiencing a tragedy of heart-wrenching proportions, and after looking all around me at other people's relationships and their struggles, I decided to combine my psychology degree, my experience, and my writing into something that may open up to new and amazing experiences.

Last year, I started the Soul Love Awakening blog and Soul Love Awakening Facebook page with the purpose of helping others to find love in themselves and in loving relationships. At the time, I wasn't sure where it was going or what I wanted to do with it. But, as I continue writing my blog posts, observing others around me, and learning about love, I am gaining clarity on where this is going.

That being said, my friend, Michelle Ponto, of Michelle Ponto Fitness, has asked me to facilitate a couple of Soul Love sessions at an upcoming women's wellness retreat she is hosting in Arizona in July. You can check out the details here at Michelle Ponto Fitness Arizona Wellness Weekend, and, if it speaks to you, we would love to see you there. More details regarding the retreat will be added in the next couple of weeks.

Dear writing friends, find your 'thing'. Try different ways of expressing your creativity in your writing through different genres or different media outlets. If there is something calling you, then give it a try. If it doesn't seem to fall quite into place, but you know you have to pursue this, then adjust and try again. The biggest lesson here is not to give up.

Keep on writing!

Allowing Creativity

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 30 Mar 2015 04:16:00 +0000

No matter what you create, I'm sure you have experienced 'the creative block from hell' at one point or another. Whatever you name it, it's the moment where you can't catch a whiff of creativity to save your life. It's like waiting for the resounding applause but only hearing crickets chirping in the night.

How does one find creativity when creativity is no where to be found?

When we are lacking in the creative department, it means we are too busy over-thinking things. We have stepped into our left brain logic and can't find a way next door to our beautiful right brain.

How do we get over there?

You may have noticed that children are super creative. They come up with stories, ideas, plans...whatever they want, because they don't over-think things. They have not been tainted by a world forcing left brainy-isms on them. (Brainy-isms...I made that one up.)

Act with child-like curiosity. Go play on the swings and laugh. While you're at it, yell out, 'I can see my house from here.' Just don't go to the playground when there are kids around--you will get glaring looks from other parents.

My sister and me on the swings. No other kids around, except our own.
Photo credit: Tamara Hanson

Another thing you can do is step away from your project and pick up a new project. Colour, paint, draw--tap into another creative source that will get your creativity flowing. If you feel like writing but can't get into your current project, then write something else. Write a love letter, a grocery list, or just random things on your mind. I find that when I'm stuck, I'll write whatever is on my brain at the time. It spills out onto the page and I let it loose. These thoughts want to be heard, so let them have their 15 minutes of fame. Once they have been satisfied, you will be able to move on to your project.

Go for a walk, do yoga, read a book, cook a meal, play with the dog--any of these things will help you get clear minded.

Meditation is also helpful. Meditation helps calm the chatty mind and put you into a state of clear thinking.

Also, while you are at it, go to YouTube and find music that is for focusing and clarity. Or, just find music that you love. Put on your headphones or dance around. Focusing on the music will help kick start the right brain into doing what it's supposed to do--Create!

Finally, do not get upset. That's the worst thing you can do. Getting upset will push you further and further away from your creativity. I don't have the statistics on this, but I'm willing to guess that every creative person has felt the strain of creating; it's almost like banging your head against a brick wall.

You aren't alone in this. Grasp whatever inspiration you can and run with it.

For other ways to find more inspiration, click on this link: The Amazing Creative Inspiration Blog Carnival . You will find some fabulous tips from amazingly creative people.

Keep on creating, friends!

Love Your Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 01:52:00 +0000

Several years ago (too many to count) I went on my first writer's retreat (unless you count the one time I had 1.5 hours of alone time in my office!).

Strawberry Creek -Photo Credit by Tamara Hanson

I loved it and it was a great way to sit and write without being disturbed. There were only 11 of us at a beautiful log cabin out on an acreage with no distractions: No TV, no Starbucks, no nearby mall, no internet, and no one vying for your attention.

Everyone had a purpose and were taking advantage of this time to do what they love...write. Some were writing poetry, a couple were writing screenplays, and others were writing short stories, articles and memoirs. I was working on my novel plus, tidying up other writings that I never got around to fixing.

It was quiet and beautiful. I walked and talked (briefly) to the other writers. I read, I wrote and I wrote some more. Not only did I eat amazing food that was lovingly prepared by three awesome women, I had the pleasure of meeting the owner of the cabin, award winning Canadian author, Rudy Wiebe.

The last night that we were there, we all read from our own work. It didn't have to be the stuff we had been working on at the retreat; we could read anything we had written. I chose to read something from a book I wrote a few years ago.

I'm not one for reading to an audience--it's a bit unsettling, and this was my first time reading my work to anyone. But, after it was all over, I was so glad that I did. It was a moment of getting out of my comfort zone and opening up to something that I had never done before. (Read my blog about comfort zones here.)

The point of this is: Even if you think that you can't read your work to someone else, give it a try anyway. Even if fear has gripped you tightly, think about how you will feel many years down the road or on your death bed: will you be sorry you didn't take the opportunity?

Taking that seemingly daunting step to share your work will be one of the greatest accomplishments of your life. You will not regret it!

To Boldly Go....

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 02 Mar 2015 19:03:00 +0000

If you popped in here because of the Star Trek reference, I apologize--this blog piece is not about Star Trek, nor is it about Leonard Nimoy (rest in peace, buddy).

However, this post is about trying something new. About getting out there with your writing; getting out of your comfort zone and to boldly go to a place you haven't been before.

I took a chance last week by uploading one of my books to Wattpad. If you haven't heard of Wattpad yet, it's a place where people can read other people's work for free.

What will you find there? Lots of poorly written fanfiction about One Direction. Okay, I'm only partially kidding...sorta. The good news is you can find many lovely treasures on Wattpad from hard working and focused authors. In addition this, Margaret Atwood and Paulo Coelho are two well-known authors who like to upload their short stories to Wattpad. Why? They can provide links to where readers can buy their books. So, really, it can be a handy promotional tool, as well.

Here's the back story of my book, Just Between You and Me: I came up with the idea late one night while I was feeding my 3 month old son. My son is now 12 years old. Yep, this book has been languishing on my computer for 12 years. Oh, and I have other books written, too, but never have shown them to anyone. Some are older than Just Between You and Me.

Anyway, I had been writing for so long and not really doing anything with my stuff, that I started to wonder what the hell I was doing with my life. I needed to get one story out there...at the very least. I had to let other people read it, and get a feel for what it was like for others to read and comment on my work.

I'm not sure why I chose Wattpad. Maybe it was just an easy platform to bounce off of. I had been hiding behind a computer for a very long time.

So, have you been hiding behind your computer for too long? Is it time to test the waters and see what happens? Once you step outside of your comfort zone, it begins to feel a little bit more comfortable. Trying something new is all part of the expansion and growth of creating something we love.

Keep writing! Keep being bold!

P.S. You can read Just Between You and Me (for free!) here!

Quieting Your Inner Critic

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 16:43:00 +0000

We are our own worst critic.

Our inner critic loves to keep us in a place of not moving forward. It says things like, "Really, who do you think you are to write a book? What kind of qualifications do you have? Do I need to remind you how much you sucked in English class? You really sucked. And, your creativity! That sucks, too!"

You know exactly what I’m talking about. That voice that tells you that you can’t do it; that gives you every reason of why you shouldn’t be doing it.

The inner critic is all ego. It runs hot and cold. In one moment, it tells you how fabulous you are. In the next moment, it tells you how sucky you are. It likes to keep you in the suck zone. Oh, sure, it’ll give you that boost you are looking for when it feels like it, but, once you have your back turned, it sucker punches you.

How do you shut up the inner critic?

Be the observer. When the ego starts getting on your back, do not get wrapped up in its issues. The ego is only talking to itself and it wants you to join along. Take a step back. Without judgement, look at what is really going on. Look at the bigger picture. You will find that nothing much is going on and you will continue to write.

Let the ego have its little meltdown. It only wants to be heard...so, let it spew whatever it needs to. Once it’s done, give it a glass of water and send it to bed.

Take the inner critic with a grain of salt. Take a look at your work, but do so from a different perspective. Then, give it to someone else to read who can provide you with an unbiased opinion.

Continue to hone your craft. Reading, writing, learning, and discussions with other writers will help you keep your focus and enhance your skills. It will also keep the inner critic in its place.

Remind yourself of all the reasons why you love to write. You started this whole writing thing for a reason--what are those reasons? Remind yourself why you started this adventure.

When all else fails, have a nap...then, start fresh when you wake up!

Keep on writing, dear friends!

When Creativity Sucks

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 16:17:00 +0000

Over the last few weeks, I have been sucking in the creativity area of my life. Where there should have been a blast of colours pulsing through the creativity centres of my brain, there was only a dull, boring grey.

What the hell? I really thought that was it... this was the end of my creative life. I wanted to give up because I could not see the proverbial light at the end of a very dark and foreboding tunnel. Oh, the drama!

It took a lot of digging, a lot of soul searching and a lot of talking to myself to sort out what the issue was.

Last week, I attended a yoga workshop to help detox my body, mind and soul. It was intense, not only physically, but emotionally. Fortunately, I walked out of there energized. This yoga detox was one of the ways I was able to squeeze through the crack in the wall that was closing in on my creativity.

The next morning, I felt like I had some mojo back. I didn't hop out of bed, instead I basked. I enjoyed the comfort of the pillows, of reading, and learning something new. I was free of distraction that day. I didn't even let the dishes in the sink bother me.

The point is, your ego will try to talk you out of doing something that you know is good for your soul. What you need to do is move beyond that and somehow get to where you want to go. If it means doing some journaling about your frustrations, then do that. If yoga, running, walking, or whatever, will get your creativity flowing, then do that. If it means meditating or listening to some beautiful music, then do that.

I guess what I'm saying is, just keep moving forward.

Happy writing!

Own Your Writer Status

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 19 Jan 2015 18:34:00 +0000

Neil Gaiman said: "The problems of failure are hard. The problems of success can be harder, because nobody warns you about them. The first problem of any kind of even limited success is the unshakable conviction that you are getting away with something, and that any moment now they will discover you. It's Impostor Syndrome, something my wife Amanda christened the Fraud Police.

In my case, I was convinced that there would be a knock on the door, and a man with a clipboard (I don't know why he carried a clipboard, in my head, but he did) would be there, to tell me it was all over, and they had caught up with me, and now I would have to go and get a real job, one that didn't consist of making things up and writing them down, and reading books I wanted to read. And then I would go away quietly and get the kind of job where you don't have to make things up any more."

You ever get that feeling that maybe you are fraud? You feel like you are spouting garbage, and, really, what right do you have to write this stuff...whatever it is you are writing?

Have you ever had people say to you, "But you're not Stephen King" or "Ya, but you won't be able to write for a living." Or some other stupid crap like that? I have. Lots of times. Fortunately, I have more support than garbage, but I still hear it.

My rebuttal is: "Stephen King wasn't always 'the' Stephen King we know today." Nor was J.K. Rowling....or, any other well-known author.

So, what makes these authors different?
1) They own their writer status. They know this is what they want to do. They know that there is nothing else that they are more passionate about. They just know.
2) They believe in their work. They believe in what they are doing and they do it for themselves. They do it to express the story that is deep within wanting to burst out.
3) They never stop learning, growing and perfecting. They work it every single day, whether it is editing, plotting, researching, promoting, reading, or writing.
4) They don't care what others say because they know this feels right for them.
5) They aren't writing for fame and fortune. They are writing because it's who they are.

When you are faced with negativity, or other garbage, look deep inside and ask yourself this:
If I gave up writing right now, would I be happy with myself?

If the answer is yes, then you can easily move on to other things.

If the answer is no, then own your writer status. Keep working it. Take feedback from others with a grain of salt, and then work it some more. There is no end point on this writer's journey. You just keep evolving. Oh, ya, and have fun while you are working it. What's the point of doing it if it isn't fun?

Happy writing!

Taking a Chance

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 22:26:00 +0000

Today, I am stuck in Joss Whedon mode, and that's okay. I appreciate the man's thought process and writing style.

His work also has me thinking about my work, and the fact that I've been doing this thing for 20 years and haven't really moved forward with getting my stuff out to the masses. I mean, really? Who does that? I have tons of completed projects, but why haven't I shared them with the world? I know focusing on my children has played a role, plus other life changes. But, come on, isn't it time to start doing something with my work? This is what I've wanted for a long time. Isn't it time to kick it up a notch? Isn't it time to take a chance?

Maybe you have been waiting for some sign that it's time to take your writing to the next level. Well, here it is.

Put yourself out there. If you are worried, like me, that your work isn't perfect enough, well, here's a newsflash for you: It will never be perfect enough. This doesn't mean that you shouldn't proofread and edit your work. However, it does mean that there comes a time when you have to cut the apron strings and let it go.

Friends, the new year is coming. It's time to decide what you are going to do with it.

Keep on writing and Happy New Year!

New Beginnings

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 21:25:00 +0000

With the new year around the corner, what will you move forward with regarding your writing? What you will choose to accomplish?

I find that we would rather hold back our passion than suffer judgement from others. I completely get that! Who wants to endure the haters? Who really wants to get stepped on?

I have mentioned in past posts that, no matter who you are, Stephen King, J.K. Rowling, or Anne Rice, you will have your work ripped apart. It happens.

The fact is, you have to not care what others think. Of course, always measure constructive criticism with logic. But, you are the one writing the book...it's yours and yours alone. When you come across someone who doesn't care for your work, it means it didn't resonate with them. And, that's okay.

So, what do you do? You keep moving forward, and, with the new year starting, it's time to decide how you will move forward. Will you decide that your writing is important and deserves your undivided attention? Will you decide that, no matter what, you will make your writing as important as eating?

Dear friends, take the time right now to decide how you want next year to look. You, and only you, can create it.

Keep on writing!

Moving On After a Crappy Review

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 08 Dec 2014 18:21:00 +0000

No matter what you write, you are going to come face to face with those people who disagree with it, hate it, love it, or view it in a completely different way than what you intended.

Here's the thing about the perspective of the reader: it is subjective. Everyone has a different viewpoint on what they are reading and experiencing. Some will find that what they are reading triggers something in them that they can't understand or choose not to face. Some might think the writing is degrading or possibly cheesy. Maybe they feel the writing is forced. Whatever the reason, people will always have their own opinion. (See previous blog post on pleasing others.)

Just remember that, whatever happens, you cannot take this personally. Attempting to get everyone to like you and your work will eat up your time best spent writing. Let's focus on what's important here: the writing part.

This isn't to say that you shouldn't take into consideration what the reviewer said; we all can benefit from these experiences. However, make sure to ask yourself if the reviewer is providing constructive feedback or do they simply love to hate? Are they saying something that will help enhance your writing? Sometimes people come into our lives to help us expand our viewpoint, and it's in that moment that we are taken to another level.

Your writing will always be changing, evolving, and growing. This is a good thing. Just keep moving forward and keep on writing.

Nanowrimo is Over... Now What?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 01 Dec 2014 17:58:00 +0000

Now that Nanowrimo is done for another year, how do you feel?

Are you upset because you didn't make 50,000 words?

Are you upset because you feel that you've written crap?

What do you do with yourself now that the frenzy is over?

What do you do with what you've written?

Well, firstly, if you didn't make the 50,000 word limit, don't beat yourself up. In the 5 years (I think it was 5) that I participated in Nano, I completed it once. Do I care? Nope. Not really. My life is busy. I have a job, kids, a household to care for, and other writing clients...it's a juggle.

Secondly, if you feel you've written crap...well, ya, you probably have. You just clumped together 50,000 words in a short period of time, there's a good chance that it won't be a cohesive story at this point. That's why you have to edit, proofread, etc, etc. You've laid the foundation, now you have to build on it.

Thirdly, do not bother beating yourself up about not doing it all in 30 days... it's not worth it. What you do next with your writing is what's important.

What will you do next? Maybe take a break from that project to refresh your mind. Maybe start a different project. Then, a month later, come back to your Nano story and start re-working it.

The main thing is to keep moving forward.

Nobody But You by Charles Bukowski

nobody can save you but

yourself.

you will be put again and again

into nearly impossible

situations.

they will attempt again and again

through subterfuge, guise and

force

to make you submit, quit and/or die quietly

inside.

nobody can save you but

yourself

and it will be easy enough to fail

so very easily

but don’t, don’t, don’t.

just watch them.

listen to them.

do you want to be like that?

a faceless, mindless, heartless

being?

do you want to experience

death before death?

nobody can save you but

yourself

and you’re worth saving.

it’s a war not easily won

but if anything is worth winning then

this is it.

think about it.

think about saving your self.

Keep on writing, my friends.

Much Ado About Nothing

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 04:03:00 +0000

Over the last week and half, I've been struggling with finding creativity. Constant distraction at home and re-learning grade 7 science and math (to help my son) has made this woman tired and brain-dead. The writing muse does not want to come out when I'm stressing about rocks and tectonic plates.

So, how does a writer manage to let in the creative muse when distraction abounds? How does a writer focus when a small child wants to do her own work in the same room as you, promising not to make a sound...but still chats? Headphones seem to work really well. Unfortunately, they don't permanently solve the problem because said child will still tap your arm to get your attention.

There's always learning the fine art of becoming desensitized to the incessant noise. However, that only lasts so long. It's a juggling act. It's fitting in moments of inspiration when they arise and when you can grab the chance. If the moments aren't there, then you are stuck with writing that doesn't even have a pulse!

I don't think there is one antidote for when distraction has you cornered, nipping at your ankles. We are all somewhat alone in this, searching around in the dark, trying to find the right combination that will help alleviate frustrations and get us writing again.

Writing my feelings out in this blog seems to help. Maybe that's all that needs to happen. And, if it means staying up late to gain a sense of accomplishment, then bring out the midnight oil!

“To be a well-favoured man is the gift of fortune; but to write and read comes by nature.”
― William Shakespeare, Much Ado About Nothing

Keep writing, friends....even when the muse is taking a nap!

Upping the Ante

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 18:15:00 +0000

As some of you are entering into the second week of Nanowrimo, you might feel some resistance to finding the right flow and words to your story. Quite possibly, your story has come to a complete standstill.

Sometimes writing is tough and painful. Sometimes the words just won't come. Sometimes the characters refuse to talk to you; it's almost like they are giving you the silent treatment. What did you do to them anyway?

Maybe it's time to turn up the heat with your characters, and throw them to the wolves. Your characters have become stagnant and they are waiting around for you to do something with them.

Who can you throw in front of your characters' path to make them have to work for what they deserve?

What event or mishap can you write to make things more difficult?

It's about upping the ante in your novel. Your characters need to work for the reward that comes at the end. By doing so, you will surprise your readers by giving them something more than the standard.

We all love our characters. We grow attached to them, and really don't want to see anything bad happen to them. However, your characters need to grow by facing contrasting situations, and you get to decide how they are going to work their way out of it.

It's time to release the hounds!

Happy writing!

Nano Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 17:16:00 +0000

Since many of you are engaged in Nanowrimo at the moment, I will keep this short and sweet.
Here is a writing prompt for those who need a kick of inspiration:

"Your character is walking down the street when something catches his/her eye. He/she turns and realizes someone he/she knows is walking toward him/her. Your character feels the fear pounding through his/her veins at the sight of this person."

Happy Writing!

To Nano or Not To Nano?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 27 Oct 2014 16:09:00 +0000

You may have seen a couple of articles floating around the web encouraging writers not to 'Nanowrimo'. Reasons include: 'If you are a serious writer, you would just write anyway', or 'only non-serious writers would participate', or 'expect to write a crappy story in 30 days'.

I'm of the mind-frame that if this is what will motivate you to write, then do it. I know that life gets busy; I certainly struggle at times to find a moment to write between juggling the kids, the household, my job, and my writing clients. Sometimes, we need a group of writers to encourage us and a challenge to motivate us. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this.

However, as Nanowrimo closes in, keep the following in mind:

Your Nano novel will not be ready for publication by December 1. Your novel needs to go through numerous drafts before you self-publish, or send it to a publisher/agent. It needs to be put away for a month, maybe two, and then looked at with fresh eyes.... and then re-written again. If you want to be lauded for your work, then take the time to make it exceptional.

Keep on writing!

Nanowrimo 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 15:25:00 +0000

If you haven't noticed, Nanowrimo is less than two weeks away, and many of you may be wondering how to get 'in the 'zone' to Nano effectively.

There are numerous strategies to help keep you focused---it's all about figuring out what works for you.

Here are some of mine:

1) Free write. This means 'write freely' whatever is on your mind. It could be your grocery list, how you don't want to go to work tomorrow, how uninspired you feel, or whatever is happening in your life. When I'm stuck and I write about 'whatever', 'whatever' turns into something pretty damn good.

2) Meditate. Meditating shuts down the crazy mind chatter and will help you to focus on what's important!

3) Read. Read something you enjoy and something that inspires you. Read a book from the genre you are writing about. Read blogs/articles on writing. Whatever it is, read it.

4) Change locations. Leave your current location and go somewhere completely different. Doing this can offer a whole new perspective.

5) Exercise/Get outside. Go for a walk or run. Get to the park and enjoy nature.

6)Watch your favorite TV show or movie where the writing is exceptional. Joss Whedon is one of my favourites. I appreciate his talent for crafting extraordinary stories.

7) If all else fails, take a nap. A quick nap will recharge your batteries and refresh your mind.

Finally, don't be hard on yourself for not keeping up with your word count. The fact that you are getting out there and taking a chance speaks volumes!

Keep on writing!

Pleasantly Surprised or Deeply Disappointed?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 16:16:00 +0000

What book or story have you read that, at first glance, you didn't think you would enjoy but ended up pleasantly surprised?

What about a book or story that you thought you would like and it sucked?

Reading is a very personal experience. What one person takes away from a book may not be what you experience. I can think of numerous books that I loved and recommended to friends and family thinking they would love them too, only to find out that they didn't like them at all. In contrast, the same emotion that someone else experiences with a book that they recommend may not resonate the same for me. For instance, I like J.K. Rowling, and I find it shocking that other people do not like her work.

That's okay. I'm sure J.K. Rowling isn't concerned about it, and I'm sure she has made peace with the fact that not everyone will like her books.

We all have different perspectives, different likes and dislikes, and enjoy different writing styles.
Think of it this way: Not everyone enjoys eating pie. Fortunately, there are many other desserts in this world to choose from. Try to remember this when you are writing and muddling through your 25th draft and hoping that you can please everyone in the entire world with your book.

It's not going to happen.

There will be people in this world who think your work stinks. My advice to you is: Don't worry about those people; you didn't write for them anyway.

Keep on writing!

When are You a Writer?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 17:19:00 +0000

I thought I would share something with you about how you determine if you are a writer or not: You are a writer when you say you are a writer.

Sounds easy, doesn't it?

Check out this blog post by Jeff Goins called The Shocking Truth About Starting a Writing Career.

Keep on writing!

Writing Prompts and Banned Books

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 22 Sep 2014 18:31:00 +0000

This is a good week to look at using writing prompts and having fun with them. Why is it a good week? Just because.

Writing prompts can certainly spiral our creativity forward, especially if we feel stuck.
Here are a few to get the creative juices flowing:

Start a sentence with the word 'oranges'.
You arrive home to the smell of chocolate chip cookies baking...but you live alone.
Start a sentence with, "He had $5.67."

On top of all this crazy fun with prompts, it's Banned Books Week! Check this link out to view challenged books from the past. I think I was surprised to see Captain Underpants on the list. Really?

Happy writing!

Illuminating the Path

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 15:31:00 +0000

What can you do today to take the next step in your writing career?
Why haven't you taken that step?
What are you waiting for?

We can easily blame our lack of progress on being too busy; maybe protest about how there are not enough hours in the day. We can all blame the juggling of home and family life, and the toll it takes on us. We can complain that we are too tired, or not feeling creative enough. Maybe the house needs cleaning or the kids need to be shuffled off to hockey or ballet.

I have said every single one of these things, and have always put it off for another day. And then ,one morning, you wake up and realize that a week, a month, or a year has passed.

The truth of the matter is that the only person who can make progress in your writing career is you! Sometimes you have to let the dishes sit. Sometimes it means taking your writing to the kids' swimming lessons. Maybe it means staying up an extra half hour or getting up earlier just to get a page in. The fact is, it's doable. Determine what is important and make a plan to do it. If it's important to you, you will make time for it.

If lack of creativity is a factor, find something that will get the creativity flowing. Maybe it's doodling or colouring. Maybe it's listening to music or reading a chapter of a book you enjoy. I find 'free writing' is always helpful. Free writing is simply writing whatever is on your mind. Just go with it. When I do this, I find the words begin to flow and my characters start talking.

So, what is the next step that you can take to progress your writing further?
Does it mean starting the book? Finishing it? Editing? Proofreading? Contacting an agent or publisher? Or self publishing?

Whatever that step is, take it and own it.
When you are done with that step, take the next one.
And then the next...till the path illuminates itself for you.

Keep on writing!

Money or Passion

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara Hanson) — Mon, 08 Sep 2014 15:30:00 +0000

A number of years ago, when I was doing a lot of freelance work, I had numerous requests for my writing services. Some were from students who were looking for someone to write their paper for them. Others legitimately needed my assistance with writing and editing. And then there were those who hinged their retirement plan on writing a best selling book and living off the royalties forever.

One person in particular emailed me and wanted me to write her story pro bono. She was in dire straits and needed money, and she was sure her story would net her an income, which she desperately needed because she was unable to work due to an injury.

This is what a lot of people don't understand: Because you have an interesting story to tell doesn't automatically guarantee a publishing contract. The writing of the story is a long process. Lots of time energy, blood, sweat, and tears goes into writing a book. Writers paint a picture with words so the reader can use their imagination and understand exactly what the writer is writing about. Clearly, this can be very challenging.

Also, no writer should work for free. Your hairstylist, your dentist, your plumber ... they all don't work for free. Unless you are collaborating with someone, you should be paid for your efforts.

The biggest thing of all is that the book may not make money, especially if the author has no desire to market or promote it.

So, what are you writing for? When you write because you have a passion for it, a drive for it, then it will show in your writing, and your readers will know you are writing from your authentic self.

If you are writing only because you think you will be offered a 6-figure advance, then you are writing for the wrong reasons.

Happy Writing!