Opportunist Knocking

Courses

Take advantage of the opportunity to enroll in the Guild’s Apprentice course and advance your writing skills. Learn to write fiction, nonfiction, articles, promotional copy, and more.

When enough people told me I had a gift with words, I bought the best computer money could buy (remember the 486?), computer paper, ink—the works. I set up a corner of the baby’s room with a desk, lamp, writing instruments, and lots of erasers. I purchased books on writing, publishing, query letters, and manuscript formatting.

A few published friends and acquaintances were gracious enough to look over my stuff. They bloodied my work with criticisms and recommendations. In so doing, they helped me get published.

Writing takes work, lots of it. It requires:

● planning
● preparation
● strategy
● goal-setting
● long hours
● determination

For many of us, the input outweighs the output. Of the thousands of pages we write, only a handful see publication. That’s okay, especially as we’re getting established.

Meanwhile, take advantage of every means to grow as a writer:

● When you get your tax refund, invest it in yourself and your craft.
● When God introduces you to another writer, pick their brain while becoming their friend.
● Attend writers conferences and webinars.
● Read free materials in the library and online.

Be an opportunist. When opportunity knocks, open the door. You never know who or what God has sent to help you advance your career.

Dr. Jim Zabloski, an adjunct professor at Liberty University, teaches writing and education classes online. His thesis, Gifted Dropouts, is available online from Liberty University.

Photo credit: <a href=”http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=659″>Salvatore Vuono</a>