In Shape - 7 Ways

           Tennis seems fun. Although in college, I admit to playing tennis for only one semester. I admit, also, that when it comes to sports, I was never any good – always the last person selected for teams. I could not dribble, could not shoot hoops, could not bat…The list goes on.

            My favorite tennis players are probably Roger Federer and Serena Williams.

            Today I watched an interview of a tennis player. She was asked how she prepares for matches; her answer: gym work, fitness work, running…all these to get in shape so she wouldn’t get tired during matches, not to mention the hours of actually practicing the game of tennis

            How do writers

get “in shape” for writing?

1. Workshops/courses – Every writer can benefit from learning something new about the craft of writing.
2. Contests – Participate in writing contests to boost morale, write to word limits, and other specifications.
3. Reading – Subconsciously, writers learn to write by reading. It’s a great way to get inspiration as well.
4. Writing – Practice writing. The more writers write, the better they become. Set aside time every day to write. Make this a priority.
5. Critiques – Pair up with critique partners who can give viable feedback on writing.
6. Rest – In an article I read by Jeff Goins, he says to rest. With proper rest, writers can be energized and ready for the challenge of writing.
7. Stay focused – No one ever said that writing is easy. It is not for the faint at heart. With determination and eyes on a goal, whether it’s completing that unfinished novel or book ten, staying focused will propel writers toward sweet success.

In closing, tennis is fun, and so is writing. Both require practice, determination, focus, effort, self-discipline, and belief in oneself.

What would you add? How do writers get “in shape”?