Calvin's approach to writing is a general beginner or non-writer view on writing:

Waiting for inspiration before doing any work.

It's not completely wrong. You do need inspiration in order to come up with a great idea to write and to fill it with fresh and exciting ideas, characters and scenes. But you don't need it to get started; and definitely not to continue.

It's said that "the professional doesn't wait for inspiration and writes no matter the weather." If they didn't not much work would get done - and what's the use in that.

Inspiration is a fantastic feeling to behold and it transforms your mood and writing session, not to mention, your writing project. It can even transform your life. However, it's not meant to occur everyday and hold your hand until your story is complete.

In other words, you don't need it to get your story done.

Writing is a trade - a craft that occasionally rises to the level of art. There are basic principles and guidelines. A rich (and poor) history of content. Generally, it follows a logical sequence of cause and effect through form. It can be a hobby for enjoyment, or a mega business.

To begin writing on a blank page is simply trial and error. It demands passion, taste and imagination. It's important to be yourself. You are the narrator. Your perspective is key. It's the spyglass in which your stories are seen through; and is an extension of your talent and voice.

However, it's also about knowing how to write by reading and learning, and who you are writing for by research and practise. It's about getting into the routine of generating ideas and content: thinking creatively. It's about putting words to the page and revising later.

Writing is re-writing.

It's easy to get into the routine of enjoying writing sessions while being inspired and getting insecure on the ones when you're not as they aren't as fun. However, fun doesn't always equate to progress. Sometimes fun and enjoyment can inhibit progress.

To succeed, they must be greeted as one and the same: with a singular outcome in mind.

Inspiration comes and goes but progress is the goal, if this is more than a hobby for enjoyment. Your skill, passion and discipline are the main stay in advancing a project forwards and reaching the finish line.

We don't necessarily write to have a good time but to create one.

Image: Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson.