10 Positive Things Authors Should Do

The internet is rife with articles on what authors shouldn't be doing. From things authors shouldn't do on social media to words that should be avoided. Search for the term “Things an author shouldn't do” and Google returns around 80,000,000 results.

So here's the things an author should do (now with less negativity and more positivity.).

Collaborate (and Listen)

It's fun and it's a great way to meet new writers. You don't have to write anything for publication. Write letters to one another. Play writing games via email. Start a blog together. Bounce ideas around. It's a great way to get the creative juices flowing.

Read

That seems like a crucial one, right? Read all that you can, especially authors you personally know. Buy their books and leave reviews. Support one another instead of tearing each other down (unfortunately I have seen online flame wars between authors. It's painful and sad to watch.).

Write Just for the Heck of it.

I scribble in notebooks. Not all of it will make it into a book but it's a great stream of consciousness. I also keep a journal, albeit sporadically. But it's there if I want it.

Take a Walk in the Literary Woods

Go and sample new things. Pick a genre you wouldn't normally read and give it a go. Search in different places for new ideas.

Give and Receive Advice

If you're an author, chances are you'll get asked for advice at some point. People will ask you to read through some of their pieces or do some editing for them. They'll ask you for your thoughts. Do it. If you can't take it on, politely decline rather than ignore the writer.

On the other hand, be willing to take advice from people. Share your work with a few close friends and listen to what they have to say rather than jump in to defend your work.

Be a Big Kid

Writing is all about having fun. You get to create the dreams that others only dare think about. And if Neil Gaiman says you never have to grow up then you take that advice and run with it.

Support the Next Generation of Readers and Writers

Find projects that support young readers and writers and help to get the next generation excited about reading and writing. Donate books to school and local libraries. Every little helps to keep storytelling alive.

Buy Books. Love Books. Read Books. Give Books

This is a simple one. Give your favourite books as gifts. If people ask for recommendations, give them. Keep lists to pass on to people if they're looking for new books to read.

Support your Local Bookshop

Bookshops, especially small non-chain ones, are making a comeback. Go and support them. See if they run events and get involved. If they don't, see if they'd be happy to set some up (or have you run events).

Be an Ambassador

As an author, you're in a privileged position. You're the ones people look to for inspiration and to be their moral compass. Give back to the writing community. And be nice. Always.

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Rae is currently writing a book about Las Vegas. Come and get involved!