This last year I wrote more words than I ever have in my life. I worked on a manuscript for my first book. I blogged five days a week. I guest posted. I did freelance work. I wrote content for other websites.

One of the biggest steps I took in 2011 was calling myself a writer. The more I said the words, the more I believed them. People would ask me, “What do you do?” I replied, “I’m a writer.” The first 20 times I laughed inside, but after time, I started to believe it. Now I’m not ashamed to say it.

I’m still growing and plan to never stop. My content has gotten richer over the course of 2011. I want it to be even better in 2012. I want to reach more people with my words.
Are you wanting to write? Is this going to be your year?
Here are few tips on becoming a better writer in 2012:

• Accept Constructive Critiscm – Having another pair of eyes is helpful. If someone points out a typo in your blog, don’t let your pride swell up. Be grateful that they were willing to help you look like a better writer by telling you. Think about the other 50 that didn’t, perhaps because they didn’t want to offend you. Ask people for feedback. When you ask though, be ready for their answer.
• Keep Writing – Even if it’s an idea, write it down. Do it when you don’t feel like it. Write a week’s worth of blog posts. Journal about your day. Write a letter to your long lost cousin. Write the grocery list. Write something!
• Never Stop Learning  – Read as many books as you can get your hands on. Not just about writing – about everything. Leadership. War. Faith. Sports. Connect with others. See what other people are doing. Study them. Find the best in your market and see how they do things. Ask them questions.
• Be Authentic – Don’t hide who you are. Get down to the nitty gritty. Sometimes it’s necessary. Tell stories. Be honest. When you fail at something, write about it. When you have something to celebrate, write about it.
• Believe In Who You Are – If you are serious about what you want to do, then tell yourself and others around you who you are. If you write, then you’re a writer. If you play drums, you’re a drummer. Stop letting fear and doubt get in your way and tell yourself a thousand times a day if you have to just who you are.

Question: What is some other advice you have for those seeking to do something better in 2012? Comment below…
 

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