Do not write in isolation!

Writing tends to be a solitary art, keeping us at our computers typing away or reading. Let's face it: the craft attracts more introverts than extroverts.

How many late nights or early mornings have been spent perfecting that one sentence, or editing that one scene? I've been to a writing convention where so many of the young writers asked, "How do I create a plot?" and "What makes a good character?"

The authors on the panel spoke of the sit-and-spew writers and the plotters, how finding your style is important (which it is), and creating a character that the reader cares about. They didn't mention much as to how to actually develop these skills, and I was disappointed that every published author on the panel only wrote in the romance genre.

I always feel that diverse perspectives expand the possibilities for improvement. Mix and match styles, so to speak.

How do you create a plot and relatable characters? Life. Go outside. Talk to people. Be yourself, grow as a human being. Listen to nature, to music. The best writing always comes from the soul, only guided by the ego of our mind once we put it on paper. Fill the pages with heart. Find your reason for writing. You don't want to be a writer. You either are, or aren't, and it has nothing with getting published. Sit down, and do it.

Then, stop writing.

Sounds counter-productive, but it isn't as long as you have the guts to stick with it. Think about your characters: their past, their future, their hopes, their faults, their quirky mannerisms. Think about the world they live in, whether it's similar to the real world or not, and what it smells like, feels like, sounds like. Explore with your mind, open and free, even without pen and paper. Let the ideas flow as you watch the world and people around you. Ponder the message you wish to deliver through your writing. After that, then start worrying about style, tone, diction, syntax, metaphors, etc.

Start writing again.

I find that the best cure for writer's block is leaving it alone. Walking in nature, or down to the store. It really doesn't matter as long as the excursion has meaning to you as a writer.

"Human beings are social creatures" is a sentiment that has been repeated in all of my behavioral science courses in college. In isolation, our perception becomes skewed and so will our writing. Growing as a person helps you to grow as a writer, and should never be neglected.

Grammar and literary devices give you more tools to hone your craft, but your reader is looking for a full glass of water, not half-full or half-empty.