8 Umbrellas Writers Need

We use umbrellas to cover us from the raindrops falling from the sky. Some use them as a shade to the brilliant sun. Are you covered in your writing life from what falls upon you in your day to day effort to write?

What should your umbrellas be so that you are covered? 

1. A positive attitude will get you on the right path from day one. If you enter your writing journey with the thought that you're never going to make it, you probably won't get very far. Do an attitude adjustment, and you'll probably move along the path quicker and with fewer bumps.Is it easy to change your outlook? No, it is something you need to work on a little at a time and on a regular basis.
2. You must take time to read about writing. The learning in this game should never stop. If you read two books about writing, don't call it quits. Add another and another as time goes by. You don't have to be constantly reading these reference books and articles, but you should be consistent. If a full book is beyond you, read the many writing blogs online, yours truly included. They only take a few minutes to read but give you valuable information. But beware of spending far more time on reading about writing than actually putting words of your own together.
3. You must train yourself to write a first draft, do a quick proofread, then file the piece for days or longer. Then, proofread again, revise and edit until you are satisfied. If you don't feel good about it, file it for another short period, bring it out and see if you can find the problem. There is no set amount of editing. It can be done once, twice, or more. Until you feel satisfied that you've done all you can.
4. Join writing groups, big or small. Attend conferences, workshops, and conventions on occasion. Don't fall into the trap of joining too many groups or going to too many meetings. They're helpful but eat into your writing time. Be selective.
5. Look for ideas for stories, poems, or essays whenever you go about your daily chores, visit stores and museums, take public transportation, or are out walking. The stories are there, but you must train your writer's eye to be observant. 
6. Allot time for writing. It's not always easy to find on busy days but create time. If you don't, it is harder and harder to have time to write. One suggestion most reference books give is to get up an hour earlier or go to bed an hour later. Not always fun, but you can make it a habit. Think of it as your 'quiet time.' 
7. Learn the submission process. Study markets so you are familiar with what they are looking for. It's much easier if you know many of the places that your writing might fit than if you start from scratch each time you want to submit your work. 
8. Concentrate on the joy of writing instead of the problems. Problems? Oh yes, there are always problems, but most all can be solved in one way or another. If you never find any joy in writing, then perhaps it is time to reassess the reasons you write

If you use the umbrellas above, consider yourself covered quite well. Keep those umbrellas open to help you move along more smoothly on your writing journey.