Write the damn story.

What are you waiting for?

No, you don’t need permission from anyone.

If you’re doubting yourself because you don’t think you have the talent, that’s okay.

Maybe you don’t… yet.

But you have passion, and often that’s better.

You can learn the craft, but first you have to put the effort in.

You won’t ever improve if you don’t try.

The first draft is going to suck.

Yes, really, really suck.

It’s going to be the worst story you will ever write.

But the first draft is just you telling yourself the story.

Everyone you idolise had to start somewhere.

Some of the best writers now are only so because they’ve put a lot of work in.

There will always be better and worse writers than yourself.

Always.

Criticism can be painful, but also useful.

Learn to listen to, accept, and learn from every piece of feedback you get.

Realise that your friends and family will probably not be honest with you.

Seek others’ opinions, especially those of your peers.

Write the story you want to read.

Set goals, stick to them, hold yourself accountable.

Don’t wait for inspiration, just start.

Show up. Show up. Show up. Eventually the muse will show up too.

Do what your heart tells you.

Writing is an art. You’re an artist. Paint pictures with your words.

Write the damn story.