Lessons Learned about writing in 2008

It's good to look back as well as forward and consolidate what you have learnt from the last year. I have learnt some valuable lessons about writing online and off that you might find useful.

• “I am an author. I am creative.” For many years, I thought my family were creative and I was not. I wrote all the time but I didn't accept that this was my form of creativity. In 2008, I finally got it (after 33 years!) This phrase became my positive affirmation until I did believe it. Now I am empowered as a writer, and I do feel creative. If you struggle with doubts about your ability, try making your own affirmation about writing and say it until you feel it!
• Writing a book can be done – it just takes some perseverence and time when you would rather be in the hammock sometimes.
• Self-publishing a book can be done without spending too much money. It is achievable.
• Writing a book is a great achievement, but selling it requires another set of skills. It is best to learn these skills while you are writing the book, so you don't have a pile of books sitting in your lounge while you work out how to sell them.
• Writing a blog is brilliant fun, very creative and a great way to meet other writers. Just offer to interview them on your blog.