Ten Writers' Non-Negotiables

Let's get straight to the point. When you think about good writing, I mean really good writing, it somehow works from beginning to end. And I think part of that has something to do with taking a few days off between writing the first draft and the final version. I recommend taking at least a week before editing, and then reading the text out loud. It reveals mistakes and weak spots you simply don't notice while you're writing.

It works, and in your practice, these will be your first Non-Negotiables:

1. Time

2. Perspective

After the pause, your editing uncovers whether you're only describing something, or whether the text has sound, smell, taste, and everything else that truly transports the reader to a specific moment, feeling, or wherever you want them to go. You also have to cut everything that distracts readers from the flow. You don't want them to drift away, even if it's the best metaphor you've ever written. Maybe save it for another story?

I have to admit that I've deliberately left some older essays on my blog where I broke all of these Non-Negotiables. I wasn't patient. And a long time ago, I’ve also used an AI. Oh yes, I have. But not anymore. By doing so, I submitted my creative mind to the rules of AI, and that was the kiss of death. I shrank myself to the level of today's fast-paced content bullshit the internet is full of, and I'm ashamed of it. Please don’t do it! A unique perspective is what wins people's hearts, and that's why they would choose one author over another. Respect your voice. Respect your:

3. Vulnerability

4. Authenticity

When you're writing a story, it's just you, your memories, and your thoughts. And you'll quickly realize that there are other Non-Negotiables you'll need:

5. Presence

6. Observation

7. Curiosity

As a writer, over time you begin to see the world with different eyes. You pay attention to how you feel and what's going on beneath the surface. You notice how others speak, when they pause nervously or start rambling with excitement and don't even finish a joke before they start laughing at themselves. You won't even bother taking your phone out of the pocket because that would be a poor trade for an interesting detail you might miss and later regret not writing down.

All of this happens before you even open a blank page. And because of that, it won't stay blank for long.

As soon as you put your pen to paper (or your hands on the keyboard), you draw from all the memories you've collected. Authenticity, a unique perspective, and your voice are essential. That is also why AI has no power here. People don't want to read another polished text full of flawless turns of phrase. You don't even have to be incredibly funny. The text will work as long as it's true.

And that brings me to the final Non-Negotiables:

8. Truth

9. Humility

As long as you will speak your truth, it will be a great authoritative story... It's your truth, whether it exists in the physical world or only in your inner Wonderland. Who can tell what's real and what isn't, anyway?

...But don't push yourself too hard, okay? Be kind to yourself. Listen to yourself humbly (to balance out the authoritative tone). And please, please, please, keep at least one rule in mind forever. It's my favorite. Every time you write, leave one thing on the page that makes you smile.

10. Have fun

With love, M.