Click Bait Be Gone
Click bait bothers me. Yet, I can’t not click for fear of being the only person on the planet who doesn’t know the ten highly effective habits of millionaires.
Once Google informed the publishing universe that I had self-published a book, the promise of literary fortune flooded my mailbox and social media accounts. “Top five ways to sell more books, click here.” “Find a literary agent in less than ten days, sign up now.” “Learn how [IMPORTANT AUTHOR] writes blockbusters.”
These infinite “listicles,” which promise instant success, trick me every time. I click, hoping to discover easy solutions and shorter paths to literary immortality. Instead, I’ve lost time I can’t get back, time which I could have devoted to writing.
Having now spent a few years in the writing wardrobe, I’ve learned there are no shortcuts to writer’s Narnia. Serious reflection, writing every day, and interacting with a writing community are the true paths for obtaining literary goals. Add hard work and a pinch of luck for good measure.
As John Lennon sings: “So this is Christmas and what have you done? Another year over and a new one just begun,” I state my 2018 writing resolutions.
1st Resolution: avoid fleeting guarantees of instant New York best seller fame.
2nd Resolution: hold fast in my confidence as a writer with meaningful messages.
If 2018 is the year you’ve resolved to write your story, take advice from a novice novelist who’s been there. Spend less time traversing internet rabbit holes. Instead, kick off your writing year by interacting with other writers and those who want to help you succeed.
Join me for James River Writers’ January Writing Show – A 2018 Creative Plan: Scheduling, Motivating & Organizing Your Writing Life. When: Jan. 31. Where: Firehouse Theatre 1609 W. Broad Street. Time: 6-8 pm
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