We know this, but for some reason, we like to think it doesn’t apply to our own writing. We tell other writers that they can’t judge their first drafts too harshly because all first drafts need editing – then we turn around and judge ourselves harshly for not writing a flawless first draft.

The truth is, editing is going to happen and everything is going to be okay. It’s really that simple! As a self-proclaimed perfectionist, I have a hard time leaving a sentence in complete shambles and “just moving on.” (And if you’re anything like me, this is going to be a tough training process – but it’s totally possible because look who’s doing it!???) Try thinking of editing like this: it’s part of the process and I’m not neglecting anything right now. I’m just not at that step of the process. Lousy words are never ever ever the end. EVER.

Nine times out of ten, I write brilliant comedy with a completely straight face. OKAY OKAY, so I probably laugh at my writing more than most people* but I still don’t think I’m that funny. HOWEVER! When other people read my writing, they’re cracking up at all those jokes I assumed were very lame and wilty. Basically, you are funnier than you think you are. Be bold and don’t be afraid of your humor! Chances are you’ll be surprised.

*anyone on planet earth ever seriously like everyone is looking at me asking, “what on earth is so funny?” and I’m just like, “my own writing.” #boss

I KNOW WHAT YOU’RE THINKING – if you’re like me, that is. Because whenever somebody unloads the “critique group” strategy, I inwardly begin melTING DOWN LIKE A NUCLEAR REACTOR ON A SUNNY DAY. I and cement myself in the EXACT MIDDLE of my comfort zone – fingers gripping the edges of my imaginary (and surprisingly comfortable) chair. BUT THIS IS NOT GOOD. In fact, it’s almost as unhealthy as pink frosted donuts.

Since I started posting bits of fanfiction online, I’ve loved getting feedback – both good and bad – preferably from people who have no bias/idea who I even am. Though my family’s opinion means the most to me, it’s important to have people who don’t know you reviewing your stuff. They usually aren’t afraid to critique openly and be honest about their opinion. THIS IS NOT TO SAY THEY ARE ALWAYS RIGHT. Noooo sir, nobody is always right. Some critique will be worth considering, and some will be
total trash. You just have to discern which is which (the hard part.) This discerning process has helped shape me into a more confident writer.

So go and share something you’ve written! There are loads of platform options – from message boards to Wattpad to simply posting a screenshot of your current project on Twitter. Anything! You’ll be amazed by how great it makes you feel.

There are two ways to do this and they both lend zero profit. You can either a) think someone else’s writing is better than yours and cry, or b) think your writing is better than someone else’s and feel aloof. Neither direction is going to fulfill you. The truth about writing is this: we all write differently. Writing is an art, and there is no right or wrong way to make art.

WORRY NOT. It’s only natural to feel like “UGH THIS STORY IS DRY AND SOUNDS LIKE EVERYTHING ELSE.” But if you give up on yourself that easily? Just remember the unicorns, my friend. Remember. I WILL NOT HAVE Y’ALL THINKING BAD THINGS ABOUT YOUR WRITING. Okay? Good talk.

When a story is completely new to somebody, they are likely going to be like, “OMG THIS.” I know that when I think up a new story idea, I’m super excited for it. But once I start writing it, reading it, working out the kinks, reading it, editing it, reading it, ALL I WANT TO DO IS MABYE CHANGE MY JOB DESCRIPTION TO “MATTRESS TESTER” OR SOMETHING.

The story gets old. It gets dry. It gets lousy. But is it actually old, dry, and lousy?? NO. In fact, with every new draft, it’s getting better and better! But I can’t see that because I’m the writer. Which is why it’s so important to get feedback! Of course, you need to be confident in your ideas on your own – but getting a valued opinion on your work can reaffirm a lot of doubts in
your mind.

JUST REMEMBER THIS: You are the artist. No one else is. Therefore, no one else can tell you how to do your art. Whether you love your writing or you hate it, you should always ALWAYS feel good about it (because writing is a paradox and that last sentence makes sense if you think about it. For a while.)

What makes you feel GOOD about your writing? Do you ever share your writing with others? Do you ever compare your writing with someone else’s? (Please stop that.) Let’s talk all things writing in the comments below!

Rock on,
Abbie

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