the seven habits of
published Christian authors

1. Read . . . Stephen King once said, if you're too busy to read, you're too busy to write. Writers need to be readers. Read a variety of authors, both in your genre and and in other genres, but read quality authors. And don't just read for pleasure, read to learn. Study how they craft the story, words they use, how they develop characters, use dialogue, describe events and settings. Also, read poetry, it'll get your creative juices moving.

2. Write . . . find a schedule that works for you and write regularly. I'm won't say write every day because for some (myself included) it just isn't possible, but write regularly.

3. Research . . . published authors make sure they have their facts right. Research settings, events, characters, time periods, fashions, inventions, moon phases, everything. Make sure the world you are creating in your book is accurate and realistic.

4. Learn . . . never stop learning. Never stop studying the craft of writing. Some of it is God-given, it just is, but most is learned. Read books about the craft, study online resources, go to writer's conferences, learn from critiques of your manuscript. And above all, have an open mind and humble spirit.

5. Network . . . it may not seem fair and probably isn't but a stark reality in the publishing world is that most of the time it's who you know. Contacts are very important. Make contacts by being involved in a writing group, doing critiques, joining online networking groups, and attending writer's conferences.

6. Persevere . . . rejection happens, it's a fact of life and more a fact of the writing life. Not everyone will think the writing you poured your soul into is as wonderful as you (or your mom) think it is. Some will love it, some will hate it. When rejection comes, learn from it, put it behind you, and move forward. As a writer you have to develop thick skin, take risks, and be prepared to dust yourself off when you stumble and get back at it.

7. Pray . . . Give you writing to God. He is the one who put the passion in your heart, the words in your head, let Him guide you each step of the way. Write for His glory!