Here’s why that’s okay — and what I’ll do next time to succeed — I spent the last two weeks away from home. The first week I was still doing some work, and spending time with family, and got in a break in the Adirondacks at the place where my family has gone for several generations now. I squeezed in some kayaking, some hiking…

These craft books will show you how — If you’re a mystery reader, chances are you’ve had the urge to write one, as well. (And if you’re thinking of writing one, I certainly hope you are a regular reader of that genre.) Mysteries of all kinds remain among the most popular books on all kinds of bestseller lists…

Some tips to get the most out of a writing break — It’s summer, which means many of us are, in some way, taking some time to relax and unwind. Whether you’re traveling or staying close to home, you may be on a different schedule than normal. (I’m on a waking up at 5:00 am schedule which, if you know me, is…

How many are you guilty of? — We’re all guilty of telling ourselves some of these lies sometimes. Learn to recognize them for what they are, and just move past them. Five minutes into an actual writing session, and often they will magically go up in smoke. I have to write every day Yeah, yeah, I know…

It only takes a minute to realize you have a choice — We’re well into summer now, which for me means two things: The sun rises earlier, so I’m naturally up earlier and have more time in my day (to write) I have a zillion other things calling me away from writing: Road trips! Hikes! Morning walks while it’s cool! …

Hint: make sure it creates a question in their mind — “As Gregor Samsa awoke one morning from uneasy dreams, he found himself transformed in his bed into a giant insect.” — The Metamorphosis, Franz Kafka. “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.” …

It’s not just writers who have to be bold — Readers love bold characters. These are characters who may be larger-than-life from the get-go, or who grow into their boldness gradually. Why do readers like them? Because they do things. No one wants to read about a character who just sits around and ruminates all day (well, unless you’re a…

And how it can make your work more vivid and compelling — I signed up for Pema Chödrön’s most recent teachings at the Omega Institute. She gives teachings there annually, and they are recorded so you can register and see them even if you can’t get there live. I’m listening to a little bit each morning to start my day with some…

Create a writing retreat to help counter the distractions of the season — It’s SUMMER! At least here in the U.S., when summer unofficially begins with Memorial Day weekend. Did I do any writing over the long holiday weekend? No. Is that ideal? Er… also no. But I was visiting friends, we went hiking in the woods, we went to the beach, we…