Writers who work full time – whether or not their jobs involve their craft – find it particularly difficult to find time to put pen to paper on their own creations. Even those who do manage to squeeze in a few hours on weekends or before and after work are constantly interrupted by family and household responsibilities.

Imagine a few days, a week, maybe even a month to yourself surrounded by other like-minded artists and being guided by a coach with no interruptions from work or home. Add to that the inspiration that comes from being completely removed from your daily routine. There are many writers’ retreats, workshops, vacations and camps available that provide just that.
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Many writers first attracted attention to their work after having been published as a result of a competition. This form of almost-free publicity has encouraged many writers to enter contests but some caution must be used when selecting which publications to pay to read your material. The reputation of the publication, the rules and regulations, the fees and how prizes are distributed should all be taken into consideration.

The variety of contests, themes, qualifications, fees and prizes are so many that there exists a number of websites and mailing lists that provide notifications to subscribers on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.

The competitions included on this list will get you started but you may also want to sign up to receive notification from the publications or from services that gathers these for you. more…

Have you thought of writing a blog but weren’t sure whether you had anything worthwhile to write about? There are hundreds of thousands of blogs out there on every topic possible; do you have anything to add?

Here are 5 good reasons to start your own blog and 5 more not to:
1. The topic has broad interest in the general population – or at least has enough people wanting to read about it.
2. Your blog would deal with an issue that interests you but isn’t already addressed fully or in the tone you would like to see.
3. Other people could contribute to the discussion and add to everyone’s learning about the topic. more…

“The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.” Mark Twain

Have you ever sat down to write and had nothing come to mind? No words will come or, just as bad, only the wrong words surface in your mind. Very few writers can boast that they always have something – and something worthwhile – to write about. Sitting for hours in front of a blank screen or white piece of paper won’t make the words flow.

“Writing is easy: All you do is sit staring at a blank sheet of paper until drops of blood form on your forehead.” Gene Fowler
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