Before the Process

If there was a list of 10 things I wish I knew before I started writing, it would be these:

1. The first draft is going to be trash.

2. You're the only person that truly knows how the story goes, and you're the only one that will ever be able to tell it. If you want this story told, you can't give up.

3. Characters first, then the world, then the story.

4. Read as much as you can.

5. Being a writer can be a lonely life, but it doesn't have to be. Get involved in a writing group early on.

6. You aren't always going to enjoy it. Sometimes you'll want to throw your computer out the window, but you have to keep going.

7. I'm a fantasy writer, so draw a map.

8. When you're writing characters, focus on people watching. Write down people's odd quirks and reference back to it. Don't, however, base a character off someone in your life. It's harder to make something bad happen to a character when they remind you of your little brother.

9. Carry a notebook with you at all times (or have an app on your phone) so that you can write down the super weird things that pop into your mind about your book. If you don't, you will forget it. I promise.

10. Sometimes, it's not that complicated. Just write.