The most important thing I've "discovered" as a writer

Hi, everyone. It's Lisa on the spot today.

There are some invaluable things writers have discovered, lessons we have learned. I believe we should share with some of our less experienced writers, or even the experienced ones who just haven't had the fortune to stumble upon the "great thing" that you have.

For some people, it's a certain outlining software. For others, it's a valuable lesson learned about plots. We might like to hear your very valuable lesson.

My most important thing is meditating. It slows your brain, makes you see clearer. Makes you understand things about your characters/story that you couldn't understand before.

What is your most important thing? Why?

Dan: I'd say the most important thing I've learned is the importance of building relationships with other writers who are near your level. This is different from networking or building a following, but rather a handful of close writer confidantes. Writing is a tough business to be in, and there's always a temptation to shout your discontent from the mountaintops of blogs and social media. That's rarely a good idea. If you have close writer friends who understand the struggle, you can talk (rant) to them in private channels without the worry of a PR fallout. If and when you finally do have some success, your close writer friends will also become your staunchest supporters. In short, a good friend is worth his or her weight in gold.

Caitlin:  Both good points! I think the most important lesson to learn, and that I still often need to remind myself, is that every writer has to find and then follow his/her own path. Sure, a famous author got that way by doing X, Y, Z. Or maybe one of your Twitter friends is having success with A, B. and C, etc. But that doesn't necessarily mean that you have to do A, B, C, X, Y, and Z. Some or all of those letters might not be right for you, and that's okay! :)