Thursday, February 18, 2021

The Benefits of Being a Writer by Marilyn Levinson

Writing mysteries is wonderful for my health. Well, sure, I do a lot of sitting around, but I counter the bad effects of that by getting up periodically and walking downstairs for a glass of water. (I bet you thought I was going to say for a cookie.) The thing is writing books keeps me on my toes in more ways than one.

Being a mystery writer is good for my mind. I need to figure out a plot involving a murder or two and people my book with several suspects--all of whom have secrets, reasons to hate the victim(s) and have the opportunity to have done him or her in without being too obvious.

I get to contact bloggers, Facebook group administrators, and podcasters to ask them to fit me in their schedules where I can talk about my latest book. I'm learning how to podcast, Zoom with book clubs and readers, take part in a virtual conference--none of which I'd done a year ago.

I try to be up on the latest marketing tools and master them--or at least find someone who can help me set up appealing backgrounds for Instagram and Twitter posts.

I'm constantly doing research because every book requires different knowledge--from demolishing a building, knowing the latest food fads, to unique methods of committing murder.

Every day I hone my social skills via social media. I  communicate with readers and fellow writers and help my colleagues promote their latest books.

I write constantly in addition to writing my work in progress: hundreds of emails, my bi-monthly newsletter, Facebook posts, blogs and comments on blog posts. 

Constant work, yes, but aside from finishing a book, all of the activities necessary to my writing life help keep my mind active and me socialized. Health benefits in the Time of COVID. 



15 comments:

  1. It is constant work, but I love it!

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  2. And seeing a story to completion provides a sense of purpose, as well.

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  3. Oh, this is so true, and very timely. It’s interesting how the perception of a writer is one of an introvert when the reality is writers may be introverts, but they are very connected ones.

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  4. You are so right, Marilyn. Using your imagination, as well as making reasoned decisions, works that brainpower hard.

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  5. Thanks for all your comments—Annette, Jim, Margaret, Kait, and Susan. Another big benefit of being a writer is all the wonderful friendships we forge with one another. Our group blog is a great example.

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  6. Absolutely!! Definitely keeps the mind working and what incredible fun!

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  7. Yes, it's all a good workout and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Making writer friends is one of the best parts of all!

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  8. Now, more than ever, I can honestly say that my writing saves me. Not only does it keep my mind active but it gives me a reason to get out of my nice, cozy bed every morning. I don't feel trapped inside because of Covid and the weather. Instead, I feel blessed to have more time to write.

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  9. I hope you get a cookie sometimes! I don't know what I would have done with this isolation if I weren't a writer and tied into that community.

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  10. Tammy, our minds sure get a good workout!

    Shari, I agree with you about making great friends, my friend.:)

    Time, Elaine? I never have enough time. I marvel how some writers write 2 or 3 series. But they're probably not procrastinators like me.

    Pat, my nonwriting friends are jealous because I'm so busy. I don't feel trapped inside, either, and there's a snow blizzard going on right now.

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  11. Fun post, Marilyn. I get my exercise from going up and down the steps to continually reheat my cup of tea.

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  12. Being in the midst of writing a compelling mystery novel can certainly be energizing.

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  13. Grace, I'm up and down the stairs a lot, too. Part of my procrastination process.

    Kathleen, when I'm moving along well in a scene, it sure is envigerating.

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