Giving Thanks Each Step of the Way by Steph Beth Nickel

 

RESEARCHING

My hubby is the one who loves to do research. I have always thought we would make a good writing duo. While there’s more to the whole “write what you know” adage than appears on the surface, I enjoy writing from my base of knowledge or about the fictional worlds I create. Typically, I find it challenging to research what I need to know, retain that knowledge, and then compile it into something that will benefit readers. I am currently coauthoring Paralympian Deb Willows’s second memoir, tentatively titled Keep Looking Up. I am incredibly thankful for our ongoing back and forth through each stage from our initial chat about the project onward. (We are currently working on revisions.)

OUTLINING

When it comes to nonfiction, I recognize the need for a more detailed outline. However, when it comes to writing fiction, I much prefer the discovery writing process… And then I get to the messy middle. I find it can drag when the blush of getting to know new characters and where they want to take me wears off. At that point, I have a tendency to skip ahead and write the ending. That way, although I know I’ll never be a detailed outliner / plotter, I know where I am and where I’m headed. Even so, there’s still room for some surprises along the way. I am incredibly thankful that there are a plethora of ways to get from the figurative “once upon a time” to “the end.”

DRAFTING

The middle of the novel I’ve been working on for-ev-er is dragging and in need of serious revamping. The main thing that’s keeping me from going back to Square One is the fact that I have been releasing chapters to Substack. I only have a handful of followers, but those who are reading Rule and Reign chapter by chapter keep me pressing on. I’m thankful for them, for every Like, and for every comment.

REVISING

Some people love working their way through the first draft of a new manuscript. Others prefer the revision process. Because I have what has been referred to as an abundance of “starting energy,” I find going back over my work, tweaking, and polishing it doesn’t stir up the same enthusiasm as diving into a new project does. Funny, as an editor, I am more than happy to go through a client’s manuscript time and time again. I am thankful for that and may need to bring the same perspective to my own writing.

PUBLISHING

Which option to choose: The Big Five? Or is that the Big Four? A small royalty press? A hybrid press? Indie publishing? While Deb and I are working with a small royalty press, I intend to independently publish my own work. However, there are challenges no matter which route a writer chooses and much to learn. And for me… See above how I feel about researching. I am thankful for my many connections to both independent and traditionally published authors as well as books, blogs, and courses.

MARKETING

While there is much “conventional wisdom” floating around out there about how to market one’s book, there are also methods that are more approachable for different personality types. Authors are not all the same nor does their approach to marketing have to be one size fits all. I am incredibly thankful for this.

The number one thing I’m thankful for, as a Christian writer, is that I can ask the Lord for wisdom each step of the way and keep moving forward one step at a time.

Steph Beth Nickel is the former Editor of FellowScript and the outgoing InScribe Contest Coordinator. Steph is an editor and author and plans to relocate to Saskatchewan from Ontario to be close to family in 2027, Lord willing. (Headshot Photo Credit: Jaime Mellor Photography)

Finishing Strong by Steph Beth Nickel

Crossfit Sports Fitness - Free photo on Pixabay

Although it has been several decades since September meant back-to-school to me, I still see the ninth month of the year as a new beginning of sorts.

And an ending.

September marks the end of summer. The end of Q3, the third quarter of the year. And for me personally, the end my daughter's move west. (We took the remainder of her belongings to her on the long weekend.)

When I return home from Saskatchewan, Q4 will be just around the corner.

My plans to finish the year strong include goals that may be an encouragement to you as well.

Writing and Revising

One of my top priorities is to complete revisions to the book I'm coauthoring with Paralympian Deb Willows.

I also intend to choose 30 of the 40+ devotionals on the Gospel of John that I've written and prep them for indie publication.

Additionally, I want to get back to writing and posting a chapter of my YA novel to Substack each week. I have posted more than half the manuscript to the platform so far. I would like to get this draft complete by the end of the year.

Are you currently working on any writing projects? Remember to carve out time to work on them. Unless we do so, there are countless things that can distract us from our writing and writing-related endeavours. Crucial things like laundry, dishes, and vacuuming. <sigh>

Editing

I have openings in my editing schedule and will prioritize any projects I take on this quarter.

Do you have obligations to complete for others? Setting aside specific time in your schedule and making note of externally or internally imposed deadlines will likely help you stay on track. 

Researching

I have an abundance of courses and books that have been long-neglected. My goal is to work on skills development from three to five times per week. I especially need to focus on the steps of indie publishing.

Do you regularly work on skills development, or do you find the abundance of material overwhelming and confusing? Why not choose a skill that will help you right here, right now, and set aside time to read a book on the subject, take a relevant course (which you may already have in your digital library), or listen to a related podcast?

Non-Writing Goals

Like all writers, I have several seemingly unrelated tasks to accomplish. (However, we all know that pretty much anything we do can have a bearing on our writing and spark ideas for current or future projects.)

Here are three things I hope to accomplish before the end of 2026:

Assist my hubby as he finishes renoing the house in preparation for putting it on the market in the spring of 2027.

Continue developing healthy habits in preparation for my blood work in October. (My numbers aren't dangerously high, but they do need attention.)

Devote more time to Bible study and prayer and (far) less to scrolling on my phone. 

Do you have non-writing goals that are achievable by December 31? Why not choose a couple and break each one down into bite-sized chunks so you, too, can finish 2026 strong.

Steph Beth Nickel is the former Editor of FellowScript and the outgoing InScribe Contest Coordinator. Steph is an editor and author and plans to relocate to Saskatchewan from Ontario to be close to family in 2027, Lord willing. (Headshot Photo Credit: Jaime Mellor Photography)

My First Book by Steph Beth Nickel

 

Not That First Book

When I read the prompt for this month's posts, "tell us about your first book," I, like many writers, thought of my first (and as of yet, only) published book.

But then I thought, "No, the first book that I shared with others goes back many, many, many, many years."

When I was in school... (I can't remember if it was elementary or secondary school.) Way back then, one of our assignments was to write, illustrate, and produce a board book for young children.

I can still remember how I felt when my book was chosen as one to be displayed in our school library. It still brings a smile to my face decades later.

Books & I Go W-a-y Back

My mom loved books. Although my dad didn't read as much, he, too, was a reader.

It's no wonder I can remember many of the books I read as a child and some that my mom read to me.

Each Christmas my mom would read The First Noel and 'Twas the Night Before Christmas to me. I'm sure she read many others throughout the year, but I remember those two distinctly.

P. D. Eastman books, such as Go, Dog. Go!, Sam and the Firefly, and Are You My Mother were among my favourites. They were part of the "I Can Read It All By Myself" series, published by Dr. Seuss. I also had several more books in the series.

And like many young girls, I read a plethora of Nancy Drew books. This is where I first learned about including cliffhangers at the end of a chapter. It was also where I picked up the just-one-more-chapter philosophy of reading.

As the Years Went By

Reading (and writing) remained an important part of my life until, ironically, I attended Bible College. Because our Required Reading List was so long, it was over a year and a half after I left college that I picked up a book just for the sheer pleasure of doing so.

Over the years, I've written several articles; dozens of blog posts, poems, and devotionals; a number of unpublished picture book manuscripts; and at least a couple of partially finished fiction manuscripts. Additionally, I coauthored Paralympian Deb Willows' first memoir, Living Beyond My Circumstances. We are currently working on a follow-up volume, tentatively titled Keep Looking Up.

Currently, I post to Substack one to two times per week. On Mondays, I publish a chapter of the YA (young adult) manuscript I'm working on, and on Fridays, I post devotionals based on the gospel of John that I originally wrote for HopeStreamRadio.

From Board Books to...

While some writers "stay in their lane," this isn't in my nature. And that's okay.

Do I plan to publish my YA novel and a selection of the devotionals I've written? I do.

Would I like to publish some children's books? I would.

Will I continue to write blog posts and other short pieces? I would imagine so.

Whatever I end up writing and putting out into the world, it had its foundation in a little purple board book displayed in a country school library way back when.

Steph Beth Nickel is the former Editor of FellowScript and the current InScribe Contest Coordinator. Steph is an editor and author and plans to relocate to Saskatchewan from Ontario to be close to family in 2027, Lord willing. (Headshot Photo Credit: Jaime Mellor Photography)

Try, Try Again by Steph Beth Nickel

 

Motivation Frame Decoration You - Free photo on Pixabay

Mindset.

There has been much talk about mindset of late.

As writers, if we change our perspective about self-editing and revision, it could make the process far more enjoyable.

Even experienced writers and authors rarely publish the first draft of their work. It's fine--important even--to pour out our thoughts in our first draft, allowing our creativity to run free. We could consider this our play draft.

Polished writing, however, is a blend of play and work--as is life.

If we assign our inner editor a chair in the corner as we complete our first draft, we are free to play. We will need their input, but only when it comes time for revisions.

Going into our writing project knowing that self-editing is a crucial part of the process can help us see it in a more positive light. 

It can be exciting to strip away the elements that don't enhance our main message, the story we want to share with our readers.

Have you experienced the joy of replacing a mediocre word or phrase with one that evokes deep emotion or paints a clear picture? That's revision at its best.

Even the persnickety work of figuring out where that comma belongs or if you've included too many exclamation marks can give a deep sense of satisfaction. 

When it comes to making revisions, we may seek out help from our team (our critique partner, beta readers, editor, etc.). Still the ultimate responsibility of deciding which suggestions to incorporate into our work rests squarely on our shoulders.

Writing and revising are about sharing our message in our voice in order to effectively reach our audience. If we see doing so as an ongoing adventure, polishing our work will not be as much of a chore. It may even become something we look forward to and learn to enjoy.

A Few Words of Warning

Just as we can't expect our first draft to be publishable, we must set aside the idea of attaining perfection with our writing.

One publisher's style guide may vary significantly from another's.

Reader expectations vary from one genre to the next.

A reader's age and gender can affect what they expect in the materials they read.

Academic writing is expected to conform with a traditional polish that does not necessarily apply to other forms of writing.

And of course, our unique author voice will determine many elements of our writing.

How do you feel about making revisions?

Do you have any suggestions that will help your fellow writers improve their mindset about the process?

Steph Beth Nickel is the former Editor of FellowScript and the current InScribe Contest Coordinator. Steph is an editor and author and plans to relocate to Saskatchewan from Ontario to be close to family in the spring of 2026. (Headshot Photo Credit: Jaime Mellor Photography)

Do the Write Kind Thing by Steph Beth Nickel

 

Photo Credit: ImaginationAlchemist on pixabay[dot]com

This month’s theme is “Small Acts of Kindness.”

As writers, we are well equipped to do so on a regular basis. I remember being handed a card at a church ladies’ event several years ago and being told, “Here, you write something. You always know what to say.”

Of course, in that moment, my mind went blank, but given some time to think on it, I would have come up with something.

There are countless ways we can use our words in uplifting, encouraging ways, in kind ways. Below are just a few of those ways:

1. Send an “I’m thinking of you” text to someone who comes to mind. This is especially encouraging if the other person is going through a difficult time. Sometimes, just a few words can make a big difference. (It’s also good when you don’t know exactly how to help or what to say.)

2.You can do the same using one of the many virtual options, such as Facebook’s Messenger. For an added level of connectedness, Messenger’s audio option or an app such as Voxer or WhatsApp means you can record your message to your friend or family member.

3. And for a more old school approach, why not drop a physical card in the mail—one with a brief personalized message? (If you prefer, you can send a free ecard from an online site such as such as dayspring.com)

4. Receiving brief notes and handwritten letters are a nice change from junk mail, pretty much the only thing that arrives in our mailboxes these days. Even bills come to our email inbox.

5. Do you remember the fun of sending (or receiving) an anonymous note? Whether signed or unsigned, it’s encouraging to receive a note of appreciation.

6. If you’re on social media, why not consider posting messages (and graphics) that will bring a smile to your readers’ face? While many people have left social media because of all the negativity that filled their feed, we who are still there can change that by creating positive, encouraging posts (and commenting on and/or responding to posts that bring a smile to our face).

A quick caveat…

Don’t get me wrong, sometimes kindness means challenging our readers. We must remember how God treats those He loves. He corrects us as needed, and that doesn’t always feel great at the time.

So, whether our message is “light and fluffy” or “challenging and heavy,” we can share the message in a kind way. Let’s seek to do so—and remember that it takes time to earn the right to present the latter type of message to our readers.

Small (and not-so-small) acts of kindness will go a long way to encouraging others and making them receptive to even challenging messages motivated by love.

What small act of kindness will you perform today?

Steph Beth Nickel is the former Editor of FellowScript and the current InScribe Contest Coordinator. Steph is an editor and author and plans to relocate to Saskatchewan from Ontario to be close to family in 2025 or 2026. (Headshot Photo Credit: Jaime Mellor Photography)

Write What You Love by Steph Beth Nickel

 

Write What You Know

We've all heard the advice to "write what you know." However, that is only the jumping off point. As writers, we are also researchers, whether formally or informally. Every day we're discovering and observing new things that find their way into our writing.

Should we write what we know? Yes.

Should we always be learning new things and incorporating them into our writing? Absolutely.

Write What You Love

If you're a journalist or a content creator, this may not be an option—at least not during your "working hours."

However, this is just one reason why those who write for a living often make time in the morning or evening to write what gets their mojo flowing, what's on their heart, what they love.

While there are countless factors that determine what we write, there is a sense of joy and expectation when the topic is near and dear to our heart.

When Love is the Motivator

Imagine your ideal writing life.

Writing about a topic we're passionate about and getting our work into the hands of those who are equally passionate (or become so) can fill the proverbial well. (We all know that writing, even about things we love, can be draining.)

Further, writing about a topic we love in an environment that inspires and energizes us and earning a living from that writing . . . Does it get better than that?

Practically speaking, the ideal is rarely our reality, but love can still be our motivator.

As believers, the Lord is to be our First Love. Has He laid a message on our heart and provided a way to share that message with others? When we do so, we express our love for Him.

Are we able to provide for ourselves and our family doing what we love even if what we write about isn't our #1 passion? Creating our best work is a way to express love to our family and others who benefit from our efforts. It's also a way to obey Colossians 3:23-24, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving" (ESV), thereby expressing our love for the Lord as well.

Do we entertain, encourage, and/or educate others with our words? This is a way of expressing love.

The Power of Our Words

We should never underestimate the power of our words.

When life becomes too overwhelming, our fiction can provide a temporary reprieve.

When our readers are weighed down by life's challenges and heartaches, our encouraging words can lighten their load.

When they're seeking direction, our nonfiction can point them to the truth—as can our fiction.

As Christians, we know our readers need to know the One who is the Truth more than anything else. And we can share this Truth no matter what we write.

Is there anything more powerful, anything more loving, than sharing our words with others?

Photo Credit: Heart Hearts Cord Hung - Free photo on Pixabay

Steph Beth Nickel is the former Editor of FellowScript and the current InScribe Contest Coordinator. Steph is an editor and author and plans to relocate to Saskatchewan from Ontario to be close to family sometime after her husband retires in the spring of 2025. (Headshot Photo Credit: Jaime Mellor Photography)

eXcitement Over Words Beginning with X by Steph Beth Nickel

Yes, I cheated when giving this post a title.

However . . .

Did you know that there are over 150 "most commonly used" words that begin with X? You can research them further here: https://www.examples.com/english/words-starting-with-x.html

For today, let's take a look at a baker's dozen of these words that we may want to use in our writing.

Interestingly, XYPHOS refers to a double-edged, one-handed shortsword that was used in Ancient Greece as well as an open source Bible study software. That gives us food for thought.

While XERIC is a watch brand, it is also an adjective indicating the noun it describes needs little moisture.

XENIAL is also an adjective. It refers to hospitality and the relationship between the guest and their host.

If you are writing about medical procedures, you may have reason to use the word XENOGRAFT. This refers to the tissue or organ received by a member of another species.

Similarly, a XENOLITH refers to one type of rock that becomes enveloped by another.

And for you historians out there . . . You may want to refer to a XYSTUS, which was a portico used by athletes in Ancient Greece and a garden walk in Ancient Rome.

The XIPHOID is a small bone below the sternum.

XEROPHYLLUM TENAX is a species of plants in the corn lily family, also known as bear grass, soap grass, quip-quip, and Indian basket grass. 

XYLOID is an adjective referring to something that resembles wood.

XEROGRPHY is a photocopying technique that was originally called electrophotography.

A XEBEC, also spelled "zebec," was a Mediterranean sailing ship used for trading.

XENURINE are specific types of armadillos.

XYLOSE is a monosaccharide type of sugar isolated from wood. 

Which of these or other X words eXcite you and may find their way into your writing?

And, of course, I wish you a Christmas season overflowing with rich blessings and a New Year full of wonder.

Photo Credit: GraphicMama-team on Pixabay.com

Winning Defined by Steph Beth Nickel

 

As writers, we want to “win,” but there are numerous definitions of exactly what that means. Each of us must determine what winning means to us and refuse to be tied to the definitions of others.

For some, winning (or success) means making a fulltime living with their writing. If you’re doing so, that’s incredible. Kudos!

This may be your ultimate goal, but even if you’re not there yet, know that it’s alright to define each “smaller,” more attainable goal as a win well worth celebrating.

If you’re not making your living with the written word (or in your preferred style / genre) and are not particularly interested in doing so, be encouraged, knowing that this isn’t the only definition of winning at writing.

Is your goal to write every day and most days you’re putting pen to paper? You’re winning.

If your goal is to hit a certain word count each day, week, or month, and most times you’re able to tick it off your Action Plan, you are winning.

If you are writing for a limited audience and even one person is entertained, encouraged, or empowered by what you’ve written, that is definitely a win.

Is your goal to process your thoughts and emotions in a journal for your eyes only, and you are often able to do so? This is one of the most important wins of all—and will have an impact on all areas of life, including your other writing.

You may be writing every day or once a week. You may be writing for a readership of thousands or a handful of people. You may be writing full-length books or social media posts.

No matter what you’re writing, know that there are different definitions of winning, and don’t neglect to celebrate the “smallest” of wins while pressing on to those “bigger” wins—or not. It’s your choice. You are free to define winning.

And while we’re learning to celebrate our writing wins, let’s encourage our fellow writers and remind them that winning doesn’t necessarily mean publishing a runaway bestseller or taking home first place in a prestigious contest. It doesn’t necessarily mean becoming a household name or being recognized when walking down the street. It doesn’t necessarily mean reporters are calling to set up interviews or social media influencers are highlighting our writing.

Sometimes winning means sitting down at your computer and adding 250 or 500 words to your WIP, taking a deep breath and hitting Publish, visiting the local coffee shop and jotting down inspiration for an idea that’s just starting to percolate in your mind (coffee shop + percolate = unintentional metaphor / pun).

So, what does winning at writing mean to you? Regardless of whether or not you’re achieving your ultimate definition of success, how are you winning today? And I assure you . . . you are!

Variety is the Spice of (the Writing) Life by Steph Beth Nickel

 

I am eclectically interested and eclectically involved. This variety adds spice to my life . . . and to my writing. I have plans to write several things: picture books, YA spec fiction, devotionals, memoir, and more.

Although some writers are focused primarily on one genre, variety adds spice to their life as well.

How?

There is so much more to writing than putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard.

For example . . .

Researching

The word "research" may bring to mind hours of Googling, seeking the information we want to include in our writing, and that may very well be part of your writing process. However, if we keep our eyes and ears open to the inspiration that is all around us every day, that can be considered research as well. From snippets of conversation to a building or ruins that spark our imagination to the beauty of a sunset . . . So much of our day-to-day life can find its way into our writing.

Outlining

We all outline to differing degrees, but creating a plan (whether extremely detailed or bare bones) for our blog post or full-length manuscript is part of the writing process. 

Writing

And now we get to what the majority of writers likely enjoys most, what we want to get back to when we're doing something else, actually getting words on the page.

Revising

We rarely share the first draft of our writing with anyone. In fact we may revise, revise, and revise again before allowing anyone else to see our work. We are often told not to revise while we're still in the process of writing our first draft. However, depending on how we work best, we may want to tweak as we go. Each of us must discover the most effective way of getting our projects completed. But whether we revise as we go or complete the first draft without looking back, further revision will be needed. 

Seeking Input

Beta readers can do for us what we can't do for ourselves. We know what we mean by our words and can't tell how those words will come across to others without seeking their input. Tiffany Yates Martin states that editing our own writing is like performing brain surgery on oneself, and no one is going to attempt that, not even the world's most skilled brain surgeon. Finding those who will read our work and give us honest feedback is priceless. 

Revising Again

While we need not incorporate every suggestion our beta readers (and even our editors) suggest, if we hear the same thing from multiple sources, it bears considering. After we receive input, it's time for another round of revisions. (I, for one, wish I could write a brilliant first draft, hit Publish, and get onto the next project, but that's not how the Writing Recipe works.)

Hiring an Editor

If we plan to hire a developmental editor, obviously this step will be happen earlier in the process. However, now is the time to consider content and line editing, as well as proofreading. In fact, we may want to book with our editor as soon as we have a "completion" date in mind. Depending on how busy our editor is, we'll want to get on their schedule as soon as is realistic. (And, yes, even editors need to have their writing edited.)

Finding an Agent or Publisher

When we have a polished manuscript in hand (or the required portion of a manuscript), it's time to look for an agent or publisher if we're seeking to be traditionally published. We must be sure to carefully follow their guidelines. More people than ever are seeking to get a publishing deal, and we don't want to be disregarded immediately because of an avoidable mistake, such as addressing our inquiry to "Whom It May Concern."

Self-Publishing

If we intend to self-publish your work, there is a plethora of things to learn. One great resource for doing so is Orna Ross's book Creative Self-Publishing: ALLi’s Guide to Independent Publishing for Authors and Poets.

Marketing / Promotion

And whether we go the trad or indie route to publishing our work, much of the responsibility will fall squarely on our shoulders to market and promote our writing. 

The following three "spices" may not seem to apply to the writing life, but their benefits will affect every area of our lives . . . including our writing.

Eating Well

When we nourish our bodies with healthy food, there are many benefits, including the ability to think more clearly. 

Drinking Water

Many writers live on coffee. While I enjoy my lattes and cappuccinos, I know it's important to consume enough water during the day. (This is something I have to work on.)

Getting Exercise

I can almost hear the collective groan. The best way to stick with an exercise routine is to find something we enjoy. Walking. Hiking. Biking. Joining a recreational sports team. Getting (and using) a gym membership. One of the many benefits of getting regular exercise is that our subconscious continues to work on those writing "blocks" when we're focused on something else. Bonus!

Just as we prefer one spice over another, as writers, we prefer some of the above "spices" more than others. Still, the variety of responsibilities adds interest and dimension to our lives.

Understanding Your Audience by Steph Beth Nickel

 

https://pixabay.com/photos/create-creation-creativity-laptop-3026190/

There's nothing wrong with writing exclusively for yourself. Enter the journal in its numerous iterations: bullet journals, diary-type journals, guided journals, etc., etc., etc.

But . . . 

If you're writing for an audience, there are several things to take into consideration.

You've likely heard the term "target audience," but defining who you're writing to is crucial to what you write, the vocabulary you use, and how you market your writing.

The good news: Defining your target audience, your "ideal reader," has numerous benefits. The bad news: No, you're not writing for everyone. 

When you have determined who your ideal reader is, you'll have to do some research as to where to find them. Do they spend time on social media? If so, where? Facebook? Instagram? TikTok?

As you explore, you'll not only find your target audience but also what interests them, what they're posting about, their "felt needs."

The information you want to share or the entertainment value you want to provide is only relevant to your audience if it's something that satisfies those felt needs. You may have a great deal of information, insight, and inspiration to offer, but you have to meet your readers where they are in order for them to benefit from your words.

And speaking of words . . .

Understanding what to say and how to say it to effectively communicate with your audience is extremely important.

Raise your hand if you'll read a 1000-page fantasy novel, but will merely skim an email of more than three paragraphs.

While you may happily read a lengthy newsletter, the same amount of content on Facebook can appear overwhelming, causing you to skip over it entirely.

Using words your audience understands and can relate to in a format that grabs their attention is incredibly important. Meeting their expectations, based on what you're writing, is also important. Using proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling in your texts is fine. Expecting others to do the same (and, worse yet, correcting them when they don't) will shut the door to effective, ongoing communication.

As an editor, people ask me if poor grammar and incorrect spelling and punctuation bother me. I can honestly say that, for the most part, I notice these mistakes but don't allow them to hinder the message the writer is seeking to convey. (It's different when someone hires me to notice these issues and correct them of course.)

As a writer, it's important to define your target audience, discover where they spend their time, learn what their felt needs are and how you can meet them, and seek to effectively communicate with them in a way they understand.

Travelling as a Source of Writing Inspiration by Steph Beth Nickel

 

Photo Credit: https://pixabay.com/photos/airplane-sky-sunrise-sunset-6074629/

A writer's inspiration can come from any number of places: snippets of overheard conversation, a display of souvenir merchandise bearing unusual names, a random quote you can't forget.

And . . . travel!

Next month, I will be travelling to Scotland, Ireland, and Iceland with my husband. Our eldest son and his wife will serve as our tour guides. (They live in Scotland and spend a fair amount of time in Iceland, a place they especially look forward to showing us.)

Needless to say, a trip like this has the potential to provide a plethora of ideas for future writing projects, more ideas than I'll ever be able to pursue I'm sure.

While I could wait until I wing my way across the Pond to make any definite plans, I thought it best to get my creative mojo flowing by brainstorming ideas as to what I could write based on this once in a lifetime trip.

From poems to pictures books. Devotionals. Memoir. Blog posts. Newsletter content. Speculative fiction. Cozy mysteries. 

And so much more! 

To prime the pump, I asked Claude AI for ideas. While I won't be using any of the ideas "as is," they have served as inspiration.

For example, I asked, "Give me picture book ideas for books set in Scotland, Ireland, and Iceland," and Claude came up with three ideas for each location. 

Among other ideas, it suggested, "Tartan Tales: A patchwork quilt comes to life, sharing stories of Scottish history and folklore," "The Littlest Leprechaun: A tiny leprechaun tries to prove his worth by granting the biggest wish ever," and "Puffin's Big Adventure: A curious puffin explores Iceland's diverse landscapes and meets unique wildlife."

Like any other technology, generative AI can be used for unethical purposes. However, I've found that it's a great brainstorming partner.

In order to record the ideas that come to mind, I have purchased a blank journal which I plan to write in every day and a guided journal, should the idea for a novel begin to percolate. (I'm sure there will be many.)

I may take coloured pens, a different colour to use for each category so I can quickly scan the journal when I return home and develop the ideas that jump off the page at me.

I will also be taking a camcorder with an external mic to keep a video record of My European Adventure and a record of the magnificent scenery that is bound to grab my attention. I may also take my digital camera. We'll see. It is rather bulky but will likely be well worth it.

What corners of God's creation have inspired your writing? How did you keep track of that inspiration? What have you written based on your travels?

What Does SUCCESS Mean to You? by Steph Beth Nickel

 
Photo Credit: geralt on Pixabay.com

Before we can determine if we are on the path to success, we must determine what success means to us.

For many, being successful means earning a lot of money, writing a bestseller (or two or three . . .), growing a social media following of 100s of thousands, etc.

But maybe you define success far differently—and that's okay.

For years, my goal has been to self-publish. But including such a lofty goal on a list is infinitely easier than breaking it down into its multiple components: completing the manuscript(s), learning each step of the process, enlisting the aid of others, and following through (especially that first time, when every step has a learning curve).

Despite a plethora of reasons (and excuses) for not being further down the path, I am taking steps in that direction. Recently, I fired off my manuscript to beta readers and asked for their input.

As writers, we never truly know how the reader will receive our words or if those words will achieve the goals we have for them. Receiving input from trusted individuals and making recommended revisions (especially if multiple people comment on the same thing) will make our writing stronger.

I have several other goals and means of measuring success but have had the desire to self-publish for more years than I can remember. So, I will press on in that direction . . . with the help of my beta readers—and so many others.

And when distractions come along, which they will, I will determine if it's time to re-evaluate my goals or press on. Although self-publishing is still a goal of mine, it is not, by any means, my highest priority. My husband is retiring next year, and the plan is to sell the house we've been living in for over 20 years and move west with our daughter to be close to Son #2 and his wife. Finding my place in our new community and "finishing well" are my idea of true success . . . whether that includes publishing multiple books or not.

As Christians, isn't it amazing that, from God's perspective, we have already attained the ultimate success. According to Ephesians 2:4-6, ". . . God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus . . ."

These verses, among so many others, assure us of what has been referred to as "the already but not yet." Because of our faith in the Lord, a success far greater than any we can imagine has already been secured for us.

What an encouragement as we travel the path to what we define as success in the here and now!

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version@), copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Overcoming Resistance by Steph Beth Nickel

 

I first came across the idea of resistance as it pertains to our writing in Steven Pressfield's book The War of Art.

If writing is a regular part of your routine—and you've overcome the resistance that threatened to keep you from putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard, at least for the most part—you may not be able to relate to this post. And that's awesome!

However, if you, like me, are still dealing with resistance, read on. 

I can come up with any number of excuses for not working on my long-neglected manuscripts. Maybe you can relate.

My clients' work has to be my priority, as do my volunteer responsibilities.

I have an excess of "starting energy." But pushing through "the messy middle"? That's a different story.

Do I really want to finish my manuscript(s) and revise it/them two, three, or more times?

Do I have what it takes to learn to self-publish?

Would it be worth the financial investment to get my books out into the world?

Since I've planned to self-publish one or more books annually for several years but have never done so, maybe I should simply give up on my publishing aspirations completely.

And seriously . . . does the world really need the books I have chasing each other around in my mind?

It's so much easier to work on short pieces like blog posts and articles.

I have errands to run and housework to tend to.

I have so many books TO READ (and podcasts to listen to).

And, to be perfectly honest . . .

I think I'll just lie here on the couch and scroll on my phone, pausing long enough to watch a series of mindless reels, another YouTube video, or a full-length TV show.

Talk about resistance!

Whenever we encounter resistance as writers, we have to be honest with ourselves, acknowledge that much of the time we're simply making excuses, and develop a detailed plan to overcome.

So, here are a couple of steps I'm going to take: 

Before needs to become one of my new favourite words. Before I lie back on the couch and pick up my phone on any given day, I will work on my manuscript—if even for 15-30 minutes.

I will schedule actual timeslots into my week for writing and others for researching self-publishing. I am not only a pantser when it comes to writing but also when it comes to life. I vehemently resist a rigid schedule. And while a certain amount of flexibility can be a very good thing, some things have to be done at a specific time on a specific day or they will remain undone. At least that's how it is in my world.

I'd love to hear what you do to overcome resistance.

Illusive Quietness by Steph Beth Nickel

In the busyness of life, how do you achieve quietness—physical quietness, emotional quietness, spiritual quietness?

Perhaps you have a regular routine for quieting your heart, mind, and soul. Or you may be like me, an extrovert who thrives on interacting with others, listening to podcasts, consuming audiobooks—until she doesn’t.

Adding quietness breaks to our daily schedule can do wonders for our mental and physical health.

As writers, we need to quiet our minds so we can think clearly and not allow the cacophony of mental noise to drown out our creativity, leaving us wondering how to get unstuck with our current writing project(s).

Below are a number of tips on how to capture that illusive quietness. Please note that those things that quiet our mind and body may also quiet our spirit and vice versa. Plus, I’ve just scratched the surface and look forward to reading how you attain peace, calm, and quiet as well.

Achieving Physical Quietness

There are two things that lead to physical quietness I’ve recently learned to appreciate. (They also lead to emotional and spiritual quietness. Bonus!) John Eldridge’s The One Minute Pause app and Emily P. Freeman’s The Quiet Collection app are such a blessing. Listening to these soothing recordings combined with closing my eyes and taking slow, deep breaths works wonders. As someone who often fills her days with the “noise” of conversation (IRL* and virtual), it’s like shifting from Fast Forward to Half Speed. (*In Real Life)

Achieving Emotional Quietness

There’s a reason they call it “doom scrolling.” If you find yourself being weighed down by what you read and/or listen to online, it’s likely time to set your phone aside. I’m not talking about becoming the proverbial ostrich with your head stuck in the sand, but unless you are specifically called to address a certain issue—and even if you are—it’s all too easy to become overwhelmed. If we allow this to happen, it’s highly likely we will become less effective in addressing issues rather than better equipped to do so. Long walks. Listening to your favourite music. Spending time with those who fill your emotional well. These and so many other things can lead to emotional quietness.

Achieving Spiritual Quietness

While prayer, the study of God’s Word, and soothing Christian music help us focus on the Lord and serve to quiet our spirt, the same is often true of taking a walk in creation—minus the headphones. You may even want to take your camera with you so you can capture scenes that serve to quiet your spirit as well as your mind and emotions.

How do you achieve illusive quietness in this day of go, go, go?

P is for Poetry by Steph Beth Nickel

it may sound cliche

it may sound self-righteous

it may sound unbelievable

but I remember the first time

i heard it

sitting in the audience

listening

learning

interesting perspective

in response to the comment

i’m doing fine

under the circumstances

the man was asked

what he was doing

under the circumstances

if we are followers of Jesus Christ

we have already been raised with him

therefore

in a real sense

we are not under our circumstances

does that mean we don’t hurt

suffer loss

get disheartened

become confused

deal with doubt and dark times

absolutely not

as a hurting child is

gathered into their father’s arms

God is there

to hold us close

for believers

though life isn’t always easy

we can rest

knowing

we need not dwell

under the circumstances

I originally wrote this poem in 2011.

Overcoming Overwhelm by Steph Beth Nickel

 

https://pixabay.com/photos/little-boy-hiding-sad-child-fear-1635065/

Have you ever felt like hiding in a pillow fort?

It was just the other night that overwhelm struck. I had several balls in the air at the same time, and, quite frankly, I felt like letting them all fall, shutting down my computer, and hiding in a pillow fort (or watching an episode of "Rescue Special Operations").

While I did finish writing the email I was working on, I decided that I needed sleep more than I needed to power through anything more.

And in the morning...

I was refreshed and ready to tackle the day. No pillow fort needed.

There are a number of other things that recharge my batteries and chase away overwhelm. Among them...

1. Going for a walk.

2. Doing a brief workout.

3. Taking nature photos.

4. Having coffee with a friend.

5. Listening to a podcast.

6. Reading a chapter in one of the books I'm reading.

7. Focusing on a single task at a time. (Close those extra tabs, Stephanie!)

And let's not forget the aforementioned getting some shut-eye.

This post has only scratched the surface of how to overcome overwhelm. Among the other things we may want to try are...

1. Determining if there are commitments we need to let go.

2. Learning that it's alright to say no when we're asked to take on a task we don't have the bandwidth for.

3. Reworking our schedule.

4. Deleting social media from our phone. 

5. Decluttering our surroundings so we aren't as distracted when we sit down to work.

6. Setting a timer and working on the task at hand until the timer goes off.

7. Establishing a ritual that tells our brain, "It's time to get to work" (i.e.: settling in to a spot set aside for work, lighting a candle, turning on some instrumental music...).

And, above all else, as believers, we ought to cast our cares on the One who loves us more than even our closest family members and friends. We must also ask for wisdom from the One who promises to give it generously.

How do you deal with overwhelm?

Never Ever Ever Give Up by Steph Beth Nickel

 

as writers, as believers, as humans

we must persevere

sometimes life (and our writing)

seem to flow smoothly, unhindered

and then...

we round a bend

and the path reaches for the sky

a steep incline

loose rocks

rickety steps

we prefer

even ground, sure footing, a moss-covered path

but the challenging sections

this is where we grow strong

we learn to press on

we learn to reach out to others

more importantly

we learn to reach out to God

is your life

an uphill climb

is your faith wavering

and your endurance at its limits

have the words stopped flowing

are you ready to put down your pen

consider the words you've read

the words that have encouraged you

spurred you on

built you up

did they come from a place of ease or

did the writer dig deep

did your fellow creative

reach inside and share their heart

the hurt, the pain, the challenge

of what it means to be human

we must follow their example

we must take the next step

we must never ever ever give up

Effective Communicators are Good Listeners by Steph Beth Nickel

 

As communicators, we're used to writing words and sending them into the world and/or preparing messages to deliver to an audience.

But how do we do so effectively?

We must learn to listen to more than simply our own thoughts.

If applicable, we must listen to our clients, our publishers, our editors... Anyone we answer to. Anyone who helps us make our work better.

We must listen to potential readers to learn their "felt needs." This is especially important when we're writing nonfiction.

We must listen to our current readers to learn what they enjoy, what they've found helpful or entertaining, and what doesn't "hit home".

To an extent, we must listen to the experts and the current prevailing thoughts so we can consider how to most effectively share our message with others.

Listening to everyday conversations can make our written dialogue believable.

Making note of what we find effective (and what we feel falls flat) in the books we read and the movies we watch can also help us when we sit down to write.

We must also learn to "listen to" all our senses.

When we include what we've heard in our writing, it will take the reader even further into the experience if we include the emotions these sounds stir up in our characters. (Doing so without actually naming the emotions is a perfect example of showing rather than telling, but that's a subject for another time.)

What do we feel, not emotionally, but with our sense of touch? Do we describe the fabric as "rough" or do we say, "It felt like coarse sandpaper against his skin" or "She slipped on the satin blouse. It was so cool and light that it felt like there was nothing on her sunburned arms"?

What do we see? The more details we notice, the more it will enhance our writing, especially when it comes to painting a mental picture for our readers.

What do we smell? Smell is the sense most directly associated with memory. If we include recognizable odours and the sensations they evoke in our characters, it will draw readers into our stories. There may be times when it's appropriate to include the sense of smell in our nonfiction as well.

What do we taste? Have you ever participated in what many refer to as "mindful eating"? There is so much more to the experience of eating than most of us think about. If we slow down and consider the sensations, the thoughts, and the emotions we experience, this added awareness might just make it into our writing.

And when we, as Christians, listen, there is nothing more important than learning to listen to the Holy Spirit and following His guidance.

Of course, the Lord communicates most directly through His Word.

But we also must pay attention to our aspirations and interests. Even our fears, struggles, and trials. God just may use them to direct and enhance our writing, to make us more effect communicators.

One last thing...

A disclaimer (of sorts): We must learn to listen to that which will make our work better, but we must also learn when to "stand our ground". Otherwise, we will forever be revising our work and never sending it out into the world to accomplish what it can.

The Power of Kindness by Steph Beth Nickel

 

Many of us underestimate the power of kindness.

Recently, I underwent a procedure to remove scar tissue from my eye, and I rediscovered just how powerful kindness can be.

From my incredibly attentive husband who waited on me hand and foot for the three days I kept my eyes closed to the texts sent by caring friends before and after the procedure.

Do you know someone who may benefit from a simple act of kindness today?

Someone who has a chronic physical condition?

Someone who is lonely?

Someone who is depressed or even "in a funk"?

A friend and I were discussing how we would like to do more for those who often "suffer in silence."

You may not have large pockets of time in your schedule, but you are a writer.

You may never know how much it could mean to someone to receive a card in the mail, an I'm-thinking-of-you-text, or even a humorous meme to brighten their day.

At our monthly prayer meeting, I've discovered that attendees rarely, if ever, share personal prayer requests. 

This got me to thinking, "Why is this?"

Are we too proud?

Do we think others' situations are more serious than our own?

Do we not want to draw attention to ourselves?

As Christians, we are called to pray for one another.

If you are struggling physically, are lonely, or are dealing with emotional challenges, I encourage you to reach out to at least a few trusted family members and/or friends.

You just might be surprised at how their small acts of kindness can lift you up.

And if you know of someone who could use an encouraging word today, don't underestimate the power of kindness that's at your fingertips.