LIFE

Since I was a little girl, I've always known that writing is one of the greatest assets a person can hold. Writing gives us the chance to speak our minds, use our voices and show our presence. 

Ever since I published my first book, Dani's Diary: 7th Grade in a Nutshell, I've received tons of questions from kids my age and adults alike. "How did you have the courage to write a whole book?" "How did you do it at such a young age?" The question I got most often? "How can I write a book, too?" 

I realized that writing had not only given me the chance to tell my story, but to become a source of inspiration and encourage other teens to write, too. So, keep reading for the *ultimate* guide on how you can write a book—yes, even if you're still in middle or high school. 

Tip 1: Find your why.

Before you pick up a pen (or open that document) and start writing, you need to ask yourself why you're writing. Do you want to entertain other kids your age with comedic fiction? Leave them entranced in a heartbreaking romance? Start an enticing mystery series? Let out your emotions in an intense autobiography? Finding your "writing why" lays the whole foundation for your story. It gives you a place to begin and a reason to keep going. 

Tip 2: Consider your impact.

Of course you want your writing to be memorable, so it's important to stick to a guiding mission so your story doesn't get too distracted. Maybe you want to spread an anti-bullying message, or educate others about an issue close to your heart. When I wrote my book, I wanted to support my readers in gaining comfort and confidence throughout middle school. I wanted my characters to be authentic, relatable and engaging. Those goals helped keep me focused throughout my writing process.

Tip 3: Set a schedule.

Writing a book is a daunting project. I'll admit, when I first started writing Dani's Diary, there were points when I struggled to see the end of the tunnel. What finally helped me was creating a schedule for my writing. Considering how busy teenagers are these days, it helped me to outline (then write) chapter by chapter to make the writing journey more manageable. Create a schedule each day, week or month—whatever works for you—and hold yourself accountable to reach your writing goals. 

Tip 4: Stay motivated. 

Here's the truth: Writing isn't always an easy task. Even though I love it, it still takes effort, discipline and self-determination, even on my best days. That's why it's helpful to use affirmations—whether it's through an inspiring song lyric or just a positive Post-It you keep by your workspace—to keep you motivated and remind yourself that yes, you *can* do it. I also found it helpful to find a personal mentor throughout the process. My mom is my mentor, but it can be anyone: A parent, teacher, author you admire, sibling or even a friend, just someone who supports and encourages you! 

Make one promise: Don't give up on yourself. When your readers finally hold your book in their hands and their lives are impacted by your words, it's the best feeling in the world.

Have you ever considered writing a book? Comment below!

by Kim Peretz | 4/25/2020