I think one of the things that holds new writers back is the idea that a first draft is supposed to be perfect. It’s easy to fall into the trap of self-editing or giving up partway through a manuscript, but first drafts aren’t supposed to be perfect or pretty. They’re supposed to be messy.

I think one of the things that holds new writers back is the idea that a first draft is supposed to be perfect. It’s easy to fall into the trap of self-editing or giving up partway through a manuscript, but first drafts aren’t supposed to be perfect or pretty. They’re supposed to be messy.

I really enjoyed the creative aspect of crafting the magical elements. They often came to me unbidden, whether it was the village backstory of the Jin ancestors or the supernatural talent of Whiskers, the magical bunny (with a nod to Chinese mythology) in the Jin family.

For mysteries, however, it crucial to plan out the crime and the clues. I figure out who gets murdered then develop a roster of suspects and motives.

For mysteries, however, it crucial to plan out the crime and the clues. I figure out who gets murdered then develop a roster of suspects and motives.

'Butt in chair.' In other words, show up to write and treat it like a real job, not just a hobby. My mother used to repeat that quote that 90% of success is just showing up, and that’s very true when it comes to writing.

Make friends. Meet your idols, meet everyone you know online, the newbie authors, agents, editors, publishers, media, organizers, podcasters—this is your community and it’s the best one to be in.

Comparison is the thief of joy. Publishing is hard enough without constantly comparing your accomplishments with someone else’s. Celebrate every single victory.

Goal, Motivation and Conflict by Debra Dixon and The Writer’s Journey by Christopher Vogler. Those books helped me learn to plot my stories.