The Weekend Writer

Unless you are a top selling writer or have a "independent means" you are possibly a member of the not so rare "Weekend Writer's Club".

Have a read of some author's biographies - even just short ones on the internet. Many a blockbuster was written on weekends and weeknight evenings between doing a day job.

Like any writing, weekend writing requires discipline. Here are five tips to concentrate on to increase your success:

1. 1. Book the time aside for writing - and don't let it get erroded.
2. 2. Find a place that you find works for your creativity and always writer there - a coffee shop, in bed, hiding in the laundry - whatever it takes to get you the atmosphere you need.
3. 3. When your writing time is up and you know you might not return to it for a few days - write yourself a short note, outlining where your thinking is at. This makes it easier to pick up again when you do return to your writing.
4. 4. Spend some time 'not writing' and still be thorough with your research, editing, polishing etc.
5. 5. Use some of your other spare time to be a voracious reader, take holidays so you can attend writer's retreats, attend workshops etc. You can live the writer's life part time and still feel connected.
   

(c) Pamela Weatherill 2008

Freelance Writing Privilege

Every now and then as a write you get the privilege of a contract really worth doing ... one you know could make some small difference to someone ...

I had this pleasure just before Christmas when I was asked to write the dedication for this year's Red Sky Ride, a fundraising event for SolarisCare who provide pretty incredible supports for people diagnosed with cancer.

This year's ride is being dedicated to a young woman Carys Gilbert, who passed on in October 2007 at the age of 17. Her family have shared Carys' story to remind people of the reality of living and dying with cancer in the hope that there will be some donations put forward for this cause.

It was a Christmas present and a half to have the privlege of meeting Carys' family and writing the dedication. Thanks.

Now to the riders of this year's 8-day ride ... all the best! You're all doing a great job getting prepared and I'm sure its going to be tough but well worth it when the donations start flying in.

(c) Pamela Weatherill 2008