April Dávila

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April Davila - Author

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When to Hire Help

Hey writers. There are about 100 days left in 2023. How are those writing goals coming along? If you’re starting to feel a little anxiety around your lack of progress, or worse – if you’re feeling hopeless, it might be time to hire help.

Now, I know that hiring a writing coach isn’t going to be an option available to every writer out there, but keep in mind that there are a lot of options. You can spend thousands of dollars on a writing coach, yes, but you can also join a group coaching program for considerably less. (If you’re interested in joining my online group, book a time for us to chat and I’ll tel you all about it.)

The truth is, writing is not an equipment-intensive activity. We don’t have to buy a lot of stuff, which is awesome. Some word processing software, an internet connection, and bam, you’re good to go. But it is absolutely worthwhile to spend money on help when you need it.

Here are a few situations where hiring a writing coach could be beneficial:

Lack of direction or focus

If a writer is feeling lost or overwhelmed with their writing project, a coach can help provide clarity and guidance. They can help the writer define their goals, create a roadmap, and develop a clear plan of action.

Skill development

A coach can be valuable for writers looking to enhance their writing skills in specific areas such as plot development, character creation, dialogue, or pacing. A coach can provide targeted feedback, suggest resources for improvement, and offer personalized exercises to help the writer grow.

Overcoming creative blocks

Many writers experience periods of creative blockage or self-doubt. A writing coach can offer support and encouragement, help writers identify the underlying causes of their blocks, and provide strategies to overcome them. They can provide accountability and motivation to keep the writing process on track.

Feedback and critique

A coach or editor can provide constructive feedback on a writer’s work, helping them identify strengths and weaknesses. They can offer suggestions for improvement, point out areas that need clarification, and help refine the writer’s voice and style.

Publishing and career guidance

If a writer is seeking to get published or advance their writing career, a coach with industry experience can offer valuable insights and advice. They can help writers navigate the publishing landscape, develop query letters or book proposals, and provide guidance on building an author platform.

Accountability and motivation

A coach can act as a reliable accountability partner, keeping the writer on track and ensuring they meet their writing goals. They can provide motivation, encouragement, and support during challenging times.

Keep writing

Ultimately, the decision to hire a writing coach or editor depends on your individual needs, goals, and budget, but if you’re thinking you might want to, it’s probably time.

Do some google searching, ask around, and book a time to chat with me. If my coaching programs aren’t a good fit for where you’re at, I’ll happily refer you to other coaches, editors, books, and websites that can help you on your journey.

Writer Burnout

Burnout is real, take heart

Way back when I was working on my first novel (while working full time and parenting two little ones), I had a day off and I was so excited to spend it working on my manuscript. My husband took the kiddos for the day and I headed to the coffee shop, but then the weirdest thing happened.

When I opened the document on my computer I had the sudden urge to vomit. Seriously. It was like morning sickness. I felt actually ill when I looked at it.

I had been pushing so hard, waking up at 5am every day to write for a little bit before the kids woke up and I had to get to work, and I was so tired. Frankly, the story felt like it was going nowhere and I just didn’t have it in me to work on it that day. I was burned out.

Burnout is real, and it can happen at any time with any project. The good news is that your story isn’t doomed. Over the past many years, I have learned (more than) a few coping mechanism to get myself through those tough patches.

If you’re experiencing burnout, here’s my advice:

  1. Take a break: Give yourself permission to step away from writing for a little while. For me this meant closing that file and opening the nascent outline of a new idea I was excited about (it would eventually become my second novel), but a break could mean engage in other activities that you enjoy and that help you relax and recharge. It could be reading, spending time in nature, pursuing a hobby, or simply taking a vacation. This break can provide the mental and emotional space needed to rejuvenate.
  2. Reflect on your writing goals: Take the time to reflect on your overall goals as a writer. Ask yourself why you started writing in the first place and what you hope to achieve. Reconnecting with your passion and purpose can help reignite your motivation and enthusiasm.
  3. Set realistic expectations: Sometimes burnout can stem from placing excessive pressure on yourself. It’s important to set realistic goals and expectations for your writing. Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. By focusing on achievable milestones, you can build momentum and regain a sense of accomplishment.
  4. Experiment with different writing approaches: If you’re feeling burned out, it may be helpful to explore new writing techniques or genres. Trying something different can reignite your creativity and make the writing process more enjoyable. Experiment with different styles, perspectives, or themes to inject freshness into your work.
  5. Seek support and feedback: Reach out to fellow writers, join writing groups or communities, or consider finding a mentor. Sharing your experiences and challenges with others who understand can provide valuable support and motivation. Additionally, receiving constructive feedback on your work can help you refine your skills and regain confidence.
  6. Practice self-care: Prioritize self-care practices to take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise regularly, and engage in activities that help you relax and unwind. Remember that taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity for sustained creativity.
  7. Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries around your writing time and space. Avoid overworking yourself and learn to say no to additional commitments that may drain your energy. Protecting your time and creating a conducive writing environment can help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
  8. Revisit your writing process: Take a critical look at your writing routine and process. Are there any areas where you can make improvements? Experiment with different schedules, environments, or techniques to find what works best for you. Sometimes, making small adjustments to your writing process can help reinvigorate your creativity.

Remember that burnout is super common for writers and creative professionals. Be patient with yourself and give yourself the time and space needed to recover. By implementing these strategies and taking care of yourself, you can overcome burnout and rediscover your love for writing.

And as always, if you could use some support, book a time to chat with me. I work with writers in many different ways, and if the programs I offer aren’t a good fit, I will happily point you toward others. I’m here to help.

The Power an Author Platform: Your Bridge to Literary Success

In today’s digital age, aspiring authors have more opportunities than ever before to share their stories with the world. However, in the vast sea of content, standing out as a writer can be challenging. That’s where the concept of an “author platform” comes into play. An author platform is like a bridge that connects you, the writer, to your audience and the literary world at large.

What exactly IS an Author Platform?

All metaphors aside, an author platform refers to your visibility and influence as a writer. It encompasses various elements, including your website, press kits, social media, newsletter, and more, but building an author platform is not solely about self-promotion; it’s about creating a genuine connection with your readers, peers, and the publishing industry.

Let’s break take a look a the top 5 reasons that having a solid author platform is important:

Build Credibility and Trust

An author platform helps establish credibility and trust with your audience. When readers see that you have an active online presence, a professional website, and a loyal following (when it comes to followers we should always focus on quality over quantity), they are more likely to view you as a serious and reliable writer. This trust can be a crucial factor in convincing agents to represent your work and ultimately (and this is particularly important for self-publishing authors) for readers to purchase your books.

Connect with Your Audience

One of the most significant advantages of an author platform is the ability to connect directly with your readers. Through social media, newsletters, and blog posts, you can engage with your readers, answer their questions, and foster a sense of community. This personal connection can turn casual readers into dedicated fans who eagerly await your next book.

Market and Promote Your Work

In the competitive world of publishing, effective marketing is essential. People can’t buy your book if they don’t know it exists. Your author platform serves as a powerful marketing tool. You can use it to promote your books, share behind-the-scenes insights, and offer exclusive content to your followers. The larger your platform, the easier it becomes to generate buzz around your work, increasing your book’s chances of success.

Attract Publishers and Agents

For writers seeking traditional publishing deals, having a robust author platform can make all the difference. Literary agents and publishers are more likely to take notice of authors who already have a dedicated readership and a strong online presence. This is particularly true for non-fiction writers. An established platform can help you stand out in the crowded submissions pile.

Personal Growth and Networking

Building an author platform also offers personal growth opportunities. It encourages you to develop your writing voice, improve your communication skills, and become more knowledgeable about your niche or genre. Additionally, as you engage with fellow writers and industry professionals, you’ll build valuable connections that can open doors to collaboration and opportunities.

Getting Started

Actually creating an author platform can be a daunting task. You’re going to have to navigate a lot of systems that may or may not be familiar to you: url registration, website building software, newsletter platforms, social media scheduling software… And then, once you have it all set up, how do you help people find you in the vast expanse of the Internet?

Most importantly, how do you keep all this from dominating your life? You’re a writer, and you don’t want to use up all your free time dealing with your author platform.

No matter where you’re at with your author platform (just starting out or looking to grow) I can help.

Let Me Walk You Through It

My first job out of grad school was as a website designer and social media manager. Late at night, back in my home office, I applied what I learned on the job to building my own award-winning website and over the years I grew myself an audience of over 20,000 readers before I even published my first book.

After I quit the day job to write full time, I continued to build my platform by watching hundreds of YouTube videos, bingeing podcasts, and reading everything I could get my hands on about how to build an author platform. I’ve learned A LOT and this fall I’m offering 4 exclusive, VIP Days to share what I’ve learned and help authors get their own platforms in order.

Click here for more information on how you can get all this author platform business under control in just ONE DAY.

Share Your Website

Whether you work with me, or put it all together on your own, feel free to share your website/blog/social media accounts in the comments below so I (and anyone else reading here) can come read/follow/support you.

Writer’s Toolbox: Grammar

Grammar tool box

For writers who are just starting out and aiming to establish a solid understanding of English grammar, there are several key aspects to focus on. Grammar forms the foundation of effective writing, enabling clear communication and conveying intended meanings accurately. Here are some essential tips and advice to help you develop a strong grasp of English grammar:

  1. Study the basics: Begin by familiarizing yourself with the fundamental components of grammar, such as parts of speech (nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.), sentence structure, punctuation, and subject-verb agreement. Dedicate time to understanding the rules and conventions associated with each of these areas.
  2. Read extensively: Reading serves as an invaluable tool for honing your grammar skills. Explore a variety of genres and styles to expose yourself to different sentence structures, vocabulary, and grammatical patterns. Pay attention to how skilled writers construct their sentences and convey their ideas.
  3. Utilize grammar resources: Numerous resources are available to support your grammar learning journey. Grammar textbooks, online courses, grammar handbooks, and reputable websites can provide explanations, exercises, and examples to reinforce your understanding. Grammar reference books, such as “The Elements of Style” by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White, can also be immensely helpful.
  4. Practice regularly: Regular practice is essential for mastering grammar. Engage in writing exercises, such as crafting sentences using specific grammar rules, identifying errors in sentences, and rewriting passages with correct grammar. Review your work and seek feedback from experienced writers or instructors.
  5. Develop sentence structure skills: Learn how to construct different types of sentences, such as simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences. Familiarize yourself with the use of phrases and clauses, and practice combining them effectively. Pay attention to subject-verb agreement, verb tenses, and parallelism within sentences.
  6. Be cautious with punctuation: Correct punctuation is crucial for conveying meaning and ensuring clarity. Learn the rules of punctuation marks like commas, periods, semicolons, colons, and apostrophes. Understand how they contribute to sentence structure and help organize ideas.
  7. Proofread and edit meticulously: Once you have written a piece, make it a habit to thoroughly proofread and edit your work. Check for grammatical errors, such as subject-verb agreement issues, verb tense inconsistencies, pronoun references, and punctuation mistakes. Use grammar checkers, but rely on your own knowledge as well, as automated tools may not catch all errors.
  8. Seek feedback and learn from mistakes: Sharing your writing with others and seeking feedback from experienced writers, editors, or writing groups can be immensely beneficial. Constructive criticism will help you identify areas for improvement and reinforce your understanding of grammar.
  9. Stay curious and continue learning: English grammar is a vast and evolving subject, and even experienced writers continue to learn and refine their skills. Stay curious, be open to learning, and keep exploring the intricacies of grammar. As you encounter new grammar rules or exceptions, seek clarification and deepen your understanding.

Remember, developing a solid understanding of English grammar takes time and practice. Embrace the learning process, be patient with yourself, and gradually build your skills. With consistent effort and a strong foundation in grammar, you will be well-equipped to communicate effectively and convey your ideas with clarity and precision.

Someone Needs to Hear Your Story

I’m not sure who needs to hear this today. Maybe it’s you.

Your story matters.

There are readers out there who need to hear your story.

Remember that your voice and perspective are unlike anyone else’s. Your experiences, emotions, and ideas shape your storytelling, and that uniqueness is what will attract readers who connect with your work on a deep level.

Stories have a profound impact on people’s lives. They entertain, inspire, educate, and challenge readers. Your story has the potential to touch someone’s heart, make them feel understood, or provide them with a fresh perspective. Never underestimate the influence a well-crafted narrative can have on someone’s life.

The world is full of diverse readers with varying interests, backgrounds, and experiences. Your story might resonate with someone who has been yearning for representation or validation. By sharing your unique story, you have the opportunity to create a connection with readers who have been waiting for a narrative like yours.

Your writing has the ability to cultivate empathy and understanding among readers. Through your characters and their journeys, you can bring to light important themes, challenges, and emotions that people may not have considered before. By sharing your story, you contribute to a more compassionate and empathetic world.

Writing is not just about the end result; it’s also a journey of self-expression and personal growth. Even if your story doesn’t reach a wide audience immediately, the act of writing itself can be transformative. It allows you to explore your thoughts, develop your skills, and discover new aspects of yourself. The process of writing is valuable regardless of external validation.

Remember, writing takes time and perseverance. Trust in your voice, stay committed to your craft, and believe that your story has the potential to impact someone’s life in a meaningful way. The world needs storytellers like you, so keep writing and sharing your unique narrative with the world.

And as always, if you could use some support, book a time to chat with me. I work with writers in many different ways, and if the programs I offer aren’t a good fit, I will happily point you toward others. I’m here to help.