1) Start with journalling
No 'ifs' and no 'buts'. Start keeping a diary! Physical or digital, just start asap.
Years ago, I spent hours listening to accountants and other professionals sharing evidence at a fraud trial. It struck me that they had something in common: they were great at keeping diaries. These successful people knew exactly what they were doing, when, and had records to look back on.
My advice is to do the same. If you want to write effectively, get organised! That starts with knowing the basic when, where, why, how of your day-to-day life. You can still be a free-spirit and note down the highlights, which people might love to read about.
1a) Journal about the tough, funny, interesting stuff
Because I chose to write about my concerns, interesting events that happened, and how I improved my life, I eventually had content for several books. If nothing else you'll have developed a great deal of self-awareness.
2) Look at other material that you enjoy and analyse it
If you want to create something others will enjoy, you need to understand how to communicate an idea. Start with following your own curiosity: what ideas attracted your attention? Who are the best storytellers? Look at their work and learn to break it apart.
3) Write a bit every week
This is essential to forming habits. Start by writing something every day that you can. But even during holidays you must write something every single week. If you never miss a week (eventually barely a single day), you'll continue to reinforce the neural links that help you weave an interesting narrative.
4) Publish, share, request feedback often - even if you think it's terrible
The earlier you get feedback the better it will be. A friend of a friend was walking with me and offered some great advice. He follows this himself, as a successful business owner, research scientist and doctor. It's easy to say and hard to implement.
You need to tell 50-100 relevant people about understand your ideas, and show them your work. Then ask them what they think - and whether they might like to buy it/support it.
Seek to connect with people who might be intrigued by what you're writing.
5) Go find people on a similar path!
The dreaded bit of 'networking' advice? Not quite. Go find people online - and in person - who are interested in similar things and at a similar stage to you. Help each other out. And don't take it personally if people drop out of your life or don't give you as much help as you want. Start with offering what help you can, and draw people to you who will take as much as they give. You'll make some good friends along the way.
Bonus no. 6) Have patience!!
This isn't specific to writing. The longer something takes, the more important patience has.
I'm naturally impatient. I also tend towards skepticism when a multi-year plan from Source Consciousness is unfolding.
I'll quote the book title of multi-sport Olympic champion Clara Hughes:
"Open heart, Open Mind"
She shared her stories of struggle, achievement, finding peace, love, and more - amidst the backdrop of a challenging childhood. Perhaps you can relate - and, like her, there will be people who are keen to read your own story.
