1. Reread (and critique) your own writing. We don’t like to look at our own mistakes, but it’s one great way to learn not to repeat them.

2. Try a regular series of writing prompts a few days a week — even if writing prompts aren’t normally your “thing.”

3. Blog as regularly as possible about a topic that interests you, even if you don’t publish your posts.

4. Read! READ READ READ READ READ! The best writers are also major readers (audiobooks count!).

5. Think of a story you watched/listened to/read recently that didn’t end the way you wanted it to end. Write your own ending just for fun.

6. Keep a journal — and keep it casual. Use it however you want, as long as it encourages you to write freely knowing no one is going to judge your words.

7. Instead of venting to someone about something that happened to you, try writing a short story about it — for your eyes only. For now.

8. Write more letters/emails/cards to your friends and loved ones “just because.”

9. Jot down the basic plot of your favorite (or recent favorite) story … with a twist!

10. Edit and proofread others’ work. Some of the mistakes others make are the same ones you might be making.

11. Try not to stress about how “quickly” you are/aren’t improving or how much you have/haven’t “accomplished” yet. Focus on writing better, but enjoy it while you do.

12. Write a lot, write often, even when it’s not your best. Just make words happen, no matter what.

Meg is the creator of Novelty Revisions, dedicated to helping writers put their ideas into words. She is an editor and writer, and a 12-time NaNoWriMo winner. Follow Meg on Twitter for tweets about writing, food, and Star Wars.

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