Just as in any job, the more skills you have, the better asset you are to your employer. I think the same goes for writing, particularly in tough times: the more styles and genres you can write, the more marketable you will be.

Although I would love to write middle grade fiction novels, I make money writing children’s fiction and non-fiction stories. Through some work samples from a friend, I learned to write rebuses. For one magazine I have made money writing rebus, historical fiction, and non-fiction pieces. I even wrote a craft article. For another group I have earned a nice sum writing fictional Biblical value stories.

Being willing to diversify your writing will not only help bring dollars into your coffers, it will improve your craft and develop a nice resume.

In this difficult economic market, try branching out a bit. You may be rewarded with some welcome income opportunities.

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What do you do to get into the mood to write? Do you play soft music in the background? Do you wear a certain hat or use a particular pen? Do you take a walk before you start to compose, or do you take a nap to feel refreshed?

I don’t do any of the above. I get into the mood by praying for inspiration. It is through prayer that I am demonstrating my dependence upon God for ideas. He put writing into my heart as a career. I told Him that I would write as long as He gave me ideas, and it’s fun to see how God keeps answering my prayers by giving me some wonderful insights. Sometimes it’s just a matter of time to get something down on paper.

How do you get into a writing mood?

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As part of my New Year’s Resolutions for 2009, I don’t want to take on too many projects that will cause me to feel overwhelmed. This is mainly because I don’t want my writing career to supercede my family. So as I’m prayerfully considering the projects I accept (which I have already blown, but God is good), I still need to organize myself so I can tackle the deadlines I have on hand.

So I have decided to do a little each day. Even if it’s reading a couple of pages of research, or praying about a topic for a Bible story I need to write and then jotting down a few notes, I am still doing something to meet my deadline. I put this plan into effect a few days ago and I have already completed one article, picked up several research materials from the library, posted to two of my blogs, and printed out some word lists I need for two stories I have to write. Step by step I will be able to get my work done.

Are you feeling overwhelmed with your writing workload? Allow yourself to do a little each day. You will be amazed at what you can accomplish.

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I’m looking forward to what 2009 will bring, especially in my writing career. I wrote down some goals, ordered a Moleskine Weekly Notebook, and am working on a deadline for next week.

It’s important to re-evaluate past goals. We need to see what worked and what needs improving. Then we need to set new goals, perhaps try something new. I have a few things I want to try this new year. Hopefully I will be able to share some successes and some insights as the year progresses.

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