Richard Schiver

Tag: writing-tips

  • Establishing Daily Routines for Effective Writing

    Establishing Daily Routines for Effective Writing

    My wife is always teasing me about how structured my days are. “It’s 8:30, time for Rick to grab breakfast, then go to his office and work.”

    “It’s eleven o’clock, time to work out.”

    “We don’t always have to eat dinner at five.”

    But for me these routines are important in helping me manage my day. It’s critical that we establish routines in our daily lives so as not to become overwhelmed with all of the mundane tasks that occupy our days. I know a few people who are so disorganized that they act surprised when it’s time to go to work, as if that moment were a wild beast quietly sneaking up on them.

    You probably know a few in your own life. Those people who are never on time and can’t really be relied upon to be where they promise they will be.

    “I’m sorry, was that today?” They’ll tell you even though they had known about the appointment for than a month and had been reminded periodically. There is a certain subset of society who likes to blame this on a new phenomenon called Time Blindless. Of course, I’m old school and willing to call it what it is. Laziness. But that’s a subject for another time and place.

    Today I want to talk about writing and routine, and why a routine is important in not only writing, but in every aspect of a person’s life. Routine provides a structure to your day, a roadmap if you will that guides you through the myriad events of your day, ensuring you meet your own expectations and arrive on time at any appointments you may have scheduled.

    When I served in the military punctuality was drilled into us relentlessly. “If you’re ten minutes early you’re on time. If you’re on time you’re late.” Unfortunately, command had a totally different idea as to what was considered on time.

    We had another saying in the military that tied neatly into the first. “Hurry up and wait.” It was not unusual to get the order to move out at 0600, 6am for those not familiar with military time, yet we’d all be sitting around in the staging area come 9am waiting for someone to pull their foot out of their ass so we could get going.

    It’s a good thing this was in training and there was not a friendly force out there somewhere desperately holding on waiting for us to show up with a promise to roll at dawn. Of course, most would not have expected the unit to move when promised anyway. Yet, somehow, we have managed to maintain our place as a reigning superpower.  

    And here I’m going off on another tangent. The real reason behind all this is that I should have had this finished and uploaded to my blog yesterday. But here I am at 8:53 am ET, writing this post. Sorry.

    As for writing, creating, or learning a new process it’s important to structure your day around your goals. When you establish a time and place, and stick to it, you’re telling yourself that this is the time and place where I will write. At first it might seem counterproductive to restrict your writing to a certain time and place, but it’s important to do so as you will train your body, and your mind to be ready to create at that time. At first you may end up browsing the web, or writing a late blog post, but you’re forcing yourself to concentrate on writing at this time.

    That doesn’t mean you can’t brainstorm the rest of the day. Most of us gather material for our work from our daily interaction. Writing down ideas, and thoughts throughout your day will help you store them for when you cam sit down to write.

    How many have heard the excuse. “I can’t write unless my muse is speaking to me, or they’re inspired to create.”   

    When you train yourself to write at a certain time and place you’ll be amazed to learn how easily it comes to you with a little practice. So be patient. Even if you only have an hour a day or can only manage a hundred words. That’s a hundred words that weren’t there before. A hundred words a day can add up, that’s 3000 words a month, which is the length of a typical short story. In one hundred days a hundred words a day will net you 10,000 words. Are they perfect words? Likely not, but everyone starts somewhere.

    What you’ll find when you start focusing your efforts is your word count for that hour can climb. Right now, as I’m writing this post it has been twenty-five minutes since I started and I’ve managed to put down 778 words to this point. They’re not completely clean by any stretch of the imagination, but within the next half an hour I’ll have a finished post that hopefully you’re reading right now.

    Tell me about your process. Do you have a set time and place to write, or create? Or do you take the scattered approach and grab what time you can spare throughout the day?  

  • Why Sharing Your Writing Dream Matters

    Why Sharing Your Writing Dream Matters

    Do you share your writing with those close to you?

    Every writer begins with a dream—whether it’s finishing a novel, publishing a memoir, or simply expressing creativity through words. Yet, sharing this dream with friends and family can feel daunting. The act of revealing your writing ambitions is often the first step toward claiming your identity as a writer, but it’s also a leap into vulnerability.

    My wife supports my dream, but she does not read in the genre I work and flatly refuses to read anything I’ve written. I do have several friends who have read my work and are always asking what’s coming next.

    Why Share Your Dream?

    Sharing your writing dream is transformative. It turns a private aspiration into a public commitment, helping you grow both as a writer and as a person. When you allow others to read your work, you move beyond imposter syndrome and embrace your creative potential. Supportive feedback can boost your confidence, while constructive criticism sharpens your skills. Kerstin at Write You Journey

    Navigating Support and Skepticism

    Not everyone will understand your passion. Some friends or family may be unsupportive, dismissive, or simply indifferent. Remember, their reactions often reflect their own insecurities, not your worth as a writer. Setting boundaries and communicating your feelings can help manage expectations. If support is lacking, seek encouragement from writing groups or online communities, where fellow writers understand your journey. Lisa Fellinger at Live Write Thrive

    Building Accountability

    Announcing your goals to loved ones creates accountability. Whether you share updates on social media, join a writing group, or simply tell a trusted friend, publicizing your intentions makes you more likely to follow through. Allowing you to celebrate your milestones together, such as finishing a chapter, submitting a story, or receiving feedback. These moments reinforce your commitment and remind you that progress is worth celebrating.

    Embracing the Journey

    Sharing your writing dream is not just about seeking validation, it’s about inviting others into your creative world. Be open to feedback but protect your vision. Surround yourself with those who encourage you, and don’t be discouraged by those who don’t. Ultimately, your writing journey is yours to shape but sharing it can make the path brighter and more rewarding.

    Listed below are several writing communities, stop by and check them out.

    • Reedsy Discord: A supportive, free community for writers of all genres, offering writing prompts, flash fiction contests, and peer feedback.
      Absolute Write Water Cooler: One of the largest and most active forums, covering every genre, freelance writing, publishing, and critique.
      Critique Circle: Focused on in-depth feedback and critiques, with free and paid options.
      Writers.com: Offers regular prompts, Zoom sessions, workshops, and an online space for sharing work.
      Scribophile: A large, award-winning group for manuscript feedback, beta readers, and writing forums.
      WritersCafe.org: Post your work, get reviews, join contests, and connect with other writers.
      Shut Up & Write!: Global, free community focused on accountability and writing sessions—both online and in-person.
      She Writes: A large community for women writers, offering articles, tips, and forums.
      The Next Big Writer: For writers seeking critiques and advice from published authors.

    This is far from an exhaustive list of the groups out there. If you’d like to share those I’ve missed leave a comment below.

  • Transforming Everyday Moments into Story Ideas.

    Transforming Everyday Moments into Story Ideas.

    I’m running a little late this week. That’s been the story of my life lately while I work to bring my post apocalyptic series to an end. Without further adieu let’s get into this.

    One of the most common questions a writer hears is, “Where do you get your ideas?”

    Being the typical smart ass that I am, I sometimes reply they come from the idea tree.

    But the real answer, when authors are willing to admit it, is simple, yet elusive. Ideas emerge from some of the most unexpected places. Maybe a fleeting moment, a snippet of conversation, or even a dream. For some, inspiration is rooted in personal experience or observation. Mark Twain famously based Huckleberry Finn on a childhood friend, proving that real life often provides the richest material for fiction.

    Other writers find their muse in the world around them. News stories, historical events, or even graffiti can spark that “what if?” moment that leads to a compelling narrative. Many authors, like Stephen King and Neil Gaiman, describe their ideas as arriving unbidden. Sometimes half-remembered, sometimes fully formed, yet always demanding attention.

    In his book On Writing, Stephen King spoke of ideas using the cup and the handle metaphor. How some ideas do not arrive fully formed and ready to go. But they get catalogued anyway until the idea that represents the handle or the cup arrives to complete the set.  

    But the secret isn’t just in having ideas. It’s in recognizing their potential. Writers train themselves to notice the unusual, the poignant, or the extraordinary in everyday life. They jot down stray thoughts, nurture them, and let them grow into stories. Sometimes, inspiration comes from other art forms, travel, or even the simple act of people-watching.

    For me personally I watch strangers. I work part time at Wally World, and I’ve wasted a few moments building narratives in my mind for the lives of the shoppers around me. Simple little tales that at times uncover a deeper narrative that refuses to be set aside. Like a hidden treasure trove of ideas that emerge from a simple act.

     Every writer’s process is unique. The magic comes with being open to inspiration while being brave enough to follow these ideas to where they ultimately lead. Turning ordinary moments into extraordinary tales.

    Where do your ideas come from?

  • Plot vs. Character: Finding the Balance in Writing

    Plot vs. Character: Finding the Balance in Writing

    Do you remember the last story or book you read? If it stayed with you long after you closed the cover of the book it’s likely you also remember the main character’s name,. When you look at some of the most beloved novels in literature. It’s typically not the twists and turns of the plot that linger in our minds, but the unforgettable personalities of the characters.  

    When creating memorable fiction, writers often debate whether plot or character should take center stage. While a compelling plot can certainly drive a story forward, it’s the characters who breathe life into the narrative and leave a lasting impression on readers.

    Characters are the heart and soul of any story. They are the lens through which readers experience the world the author has created. Even the most intricate plot can fall flat if the characters are one dimensional or fail to evoke empathy. Readers connect with stories on an emotional level, and that connection is forged through the struggles, triumphs, and growth of the characters. When readers care about the people in a story, they become invested in what happens to them, regardless of how simple or complex the plot may be.

    Focusing on character development allows writers to explore deeper themes and create stories that reflect the complexities of real life. Well crafted characters can surprise us, challenge our assumptions, and provide inspiration. They give writers the freedom to let the plot evolve organically, shaped by the characters motivations and reactions rather than contrived events.

    Ultimately, while plot provides structure, it is the characters who give a story its soul. Writers who prioritize character over plot create fiction that is not only engaging but also memorable and impactful. By investing in rich, believable characters, authors ensure that their stories will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.

    How can I apply this to my writing?

    Before outlining your plot, spend time developing your main characters. Ask yourself: What do they want?

    What are their fears, flaws, and strengths? How do they change over time?

    Create detailed character profiles. Include background, personality traits, relationships, and motivations.

    Instead of forcing your characters through a predetermined plot, let their choices and reactions shape the events.

    External events are important, but internal struggles make characters relatable. Show how your characters wrestle with doubts, desires, and moral dilemmas.

    Use these internal conflicts to guide the direction of your story.

    When you reach a turning point in your story, ask. “What would my character really do here?” Authentic decisions lead to organic plot development.

    Give your characters relatable goals and vulnerabilities. Readers should root for them, worry about them, and celebrate their victories.

     Use dialogue, thoughts, and actions to reveal who your characters are beneath the surface.

    During editing, check if your plot points arise naturally from your characters’ motivations. If something feels forced, adjust the event or the character’s response.

    I hope this helps writers who might be struggling with the plot or character question. I also hope to offer readers a brief glimpse behind the scenes of crafting memorable fiction. I first started writing in the nineties and have focused on the craft ever since. I went through the usual process of experimenting before I finally discovered my own voice. Being well read also helped as it gave me a foundation to launch my writing career from. Now if I could just figure out this whole marketing thing I’ll be all set.

  • Develop Your Writing Skills with Passion

    Develop Your Writing Skills with Passion

    Sorry for the delay in getting this out there. Been dealing with a bad case of insomnia for the past few days and I’m struggling to think coherently.

    Writing is a journey that demands unwavering commitment and dedication. Whether you’re an aspiring novelist, a seasoned journalist, or a casual blogger, the process of writing requires commitment to your craft. Below are some key aspects you must consider to create written works.

    1. Time. If possible it’s essential to carve out dedicated time in your daily routine to write. This might mean waking up an hour earlier or setting aside time in the evening. Consistency is the key. Even if you can only manage a few paragraphs a day, the cumulative effect will be significant over time. This commitment to regular writing sessions helps to build momentum and keeps your creative juices flowing.
    2. Learning. Writing is an evolving skill, and there is always room for growth. Like a muscle it must be exercised regularly. This also means reading widely, attending workshops if possible, and seeking feedback from peers and mentors. It’s important to embrace constructive criticism and to be open to revising your work as needed. This willingness to learn and adapt is what separates good writers from great ones. It’s also important to develop a thick skin. Sometimes that honest criticism will hurt, and you have to be able to put aside your feelings to look at your work with an objective eye. 
    3. Perseverance. The path to creating written works is often fraught with challenges, including writer’s block, self-doubt, and rejection. It is important to stay resilient and keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough. Remember that every writer faces obstacles and overcoming them is part of the journey.
    4. Authenticity. Writing is a deeply personal endeavor, and your unique voice and perspective are what make your work stand out. Stay true to yourself and your vision, and do not be afraid to tackle difficult or controversial topics. Authenticity resonates with readers and adds depth and meaning to your work.
    5. Passion. It’s the driving force that fuels your creativity and keeps you motivated. It is what makes the long hours and hard work worthwhile. Find what inspires you and let that passion guide your writing.

    Embrace these aspects, and you will be well on your way to becoming a successful and fulfilled writer. Happy writing!