The Science of Writing Fiction
There is a certain pleasure that comes with writing. It is a sense of satisfaction, self-fulfillment and divine inspiration that few other activities can deliver. However, with these intense positive emotional experiences also comes intense negative experiences including writer’s block, obsession and rejection.
The Good
Writing offers many benefits that other pass times simply cannot offer. For example, it is very useful for achieving personal awareness. This awareness is achieved through the exploration of your subconscious and conscious mind. You can think of writing as a very inexpensive form of psychotherapy.
Another benefit offered by writing is that it can provide you with an income. Historically it has been very difficult to make money as a writer, even when your work was popular. Today, however, you have many publishing opportunities that provide you with quick and consistent income, if you are willing to put in the effort to promote your work.
Finally, writing gives you the chance to create something. Whether it is a novel, a blog or an anthology of poems, this creative outlet helps to enhance your self-esteem, to lower your stress levels and to enhance your overall outlook on life.
The Bad
As with any activity there are always drawbacks. Writing has several drawbacks that can discourage some individuals from doing it. For example, rejection and criticism are inherent of publishing your work. No matter how brilliant your work is, there will always be someone that does not like it. When you blog you expose yourself to criticism that can include mild remarks on your writing skills to severe insults that question your right to call yourself a writer.
Becoming a Writer
Now that you understand the pros and cons of being a writer you have a choice to make. To take a chance at establishing a reputation as a writer, or playing it safe and looking for a different hobby.
If you have chosen to become a writer, congratulations. Your next step is to develop your skills and to create a portfolio of your work. The only way to do both of these things is to write. Dedicate a time each day to write. You can write for a specified period of time or you can write a specific number of pages. The goal here is to simply make writing a daily habit.
As your portfolio of writing increases, you will notice that your writing style is emerging and that your writing capabilities are improving. If you find that you need a little extra help with your writing feel free to read books on the subject and to take classes. These experiences will give you a richer palette to work with when you write.
About the author:
Writing is a passion, and Madeline Binder has explored this passion for decades. Her writing inspires, encourages and challenges people to follow their dreams, and she encourages students of all ages to do the same, especially in the area of science.
0 
3 
68
