As a writer, I know how costly my profession can be. From workshops and conferences to special software for my computer, every purchase adds up and cuts into my already tight budget.
I’m a big fan of self-learning. I am particularly fond of books like New World Library’s A Writer’s Book Of Days: A Spirited Companion & Lively Muse for the Writing Life by Judy Reeves because it something I can refer to over and over again. For less than $20, I have a year’s worth of inspiration at my fingertips. Chock full of meaningful tips and stories about well-known writers like Agatha Christie, James Michener, and Margaret Atwood, this book is a valuable resource for anyone with a knack for the written word.
Divided into twelve months, each section addresses a number of topics including:
- How to Create a Space of Your Own
- Honoring Yourself As a Writer
- Stream of Consciousness and Other Intuitive Writing
- How to Start a Writing Practice Group
In addition to providing her readers with unlimited resources to choose from, Reeves also encourages them to complete regular writing exercises. Her Beyond Practice prompts push past personal limits and allow writers to excavate the goldmine of ideas that are welled up inside of them.
In today’s world, there is a lot of money to be had with writing. I have written about this before. Reeves addresses this topic in a section titled When Can I Quit My Day Job and Be a Full-Time Writer? She notes that, “If you’ve determined you want writing to have preeminence in your life, some reconstruction may be in order.” She suggests moving into a smaller and less expensive place, cutting back on unnecessary expenses, and even sacrificing sleep when necessary. All of these things are a given if you want to embrace the writing life with open arms.
Nikki Giovanni stated, “People say poets can’t make a living. I tell them to lower their expectations to match their income.” Few writers get rich according to A Writer’s Book of Days. Still, it is gratifying work. For anyone looking to get away from the daily grind and set their own hours, freelancing is the way to go.
If there is one book on your Wish List this year, it should be this one. Highly recommend by artist and author SARK, it is a small investment that reaps gigantic rewards. To find out more about the author or her book, visit http://www.newworldlibrary.com.