Write2Ignite

The week between Christmas and New Years is a special time of year. If you are an aspiring children’s author, you may wonder how to best use this week. Christian authors focus on a variety of activities during Christmas week. The list is as varied as the individual authors. I encourage you to choose one or two of the activities that fit your season of life and writing.

• Take Time to Draw Closer to God – To say that it is the reason for the season is almost cliche, but Jesus IS the reason for this joyous time of year. Remember to spend time in fellowship with Him. Thank Him for the wonderful gift of a Savior. Ask Him to guide your writing path in the upcoming year.
• Develop a Writing Plan for the New Year – Grab a planner or simple spiral notebook. Map out the writing projects and writing relating activities you will do this year. Be realistic in your plans. Remember that it is easy to make a lengthy, impossible list. Put in writing something that is attainable.
• Spend Time on Your Work in Progress – Some children’s authors write full time. During the days around Christmas, they may take time off. Most writers work other jobs as well. The days justafter your family celebrates Christmas may offer some extra time to write. If you have the luxury of time this week, use it to focus on that important work you long to complete.
• Market Your Published Works – If you are already published, this can be a great time to market your books. Contact bookstores, churches, and schools for events. Execute a marketing campaign via snail mail or email.
• Get Involved in Social Media – Remember that many people are off this week. Time off leads to time on the Internet. Connect with your readers and their parents on social media.
• Spend Time with the Kids in Your Life – Connect with the kids in your life. Remember to foster those relationships because they are so important. Also understand that it is impossible to write for an audience you don’t know.
• Relax – It is okay to just chill. Everyone, including authors, need time to just do nothing. For some, that means literally doing nothing. Others recharge by walking, seeing a movie, or reading a book. Give yourself permission to relax and replenish your energy for writing in 2017.

What writing activities are you pursuing this week?

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Carol McAdams Moore writes for children and youth in the general and Christian markets. Learn more about Carol and her tween devos: Dare U 2 Open This Book – draw it, write it, dare 2 live it – 90 devotions and Just Sayin’ – write ‘em, draw ‘em, hide ‘em in your heart at carolmcadamsmoore.com.