One of the most surprising things I discovered when I became a writer was how many people out there secretly think about writing but are too afraid or don't know where to begin.

Today I would like to speak to those who are afraid to write (I won't forget about those of you who don't know where to start; we will talk next week). Your fear may be linked to self-esteem, anxiety, fear of failure, or a combination of all these along with something more. You  know the adage about dancing like no one is watching? Well, I recommend you write like no one will read it. Don't twist yourself into knots about what people might think. Make this decision right now - no one will ever read what you write. Let it go. You can always change your mind later, but don't dwell on it. At this early stage you are NOT writing for others, you are writing for yourself.

Secretly (or not so secretly) stalk social media for for those places where authors prop each other up. Facebook and blog sites are full of resources and free support for current and wannabe authors. Just seeing how others overcome their insecurities can be helpful.

Tell someone that you are writing an article or story. This can be a total stranger. When I began Dog Gone, I told bank tellers, check-out clerks, and salespeople long before I told my friends. Consider it practice and choose people you will never see again.

Finally, write something. It can be as simple as the title to an article on knitting. How about your grandmother's recipes you always meant to organize and publish? Write three sentences for the introduction to those scrumptious directions. When I began writing Dog Gone it was meant to be a short story and I never planned on sharing it with anyone.

Start small, take a breath, and begin your story. You got this.

Stay tuned for additional tips and next steps.


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