. @dandarling and I discussed the topic of writing and publishing with the @ERLC interns today.

I was in the shadow of greatness with Dan, but I thought I'd share some lessons I've learned over the years!

1. Write because you have something worthwhile to say, not to make a name for yourself.

2. Read well (Cliché, but true)

3. Be willing to be edited. A good editor is worth their weight in gold.

4. Read your writing aloud before submitting it. (I'm caught many errors this way)

5. Build good relationships with editors and other writers.

6. Be generous with promoting the work of other authors and writers. Writing is difficult work, and we ought to cheer one another on.

7. Invest in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones.

8. Being told "no" is part of the process. Don't let it stop you from continuing to write and pitch your work to outlets. Take it in stride and allow it to make you a better writer.