Recently, a young scribe asked me what I thought was the most important element of being a writer.  I have always had a very quick answer to such a question:

“The most important element of being a writer is to write every day.”

I do believe that if a person is intent on refining his or her abilities as a writer it is important that such a person take time each and every day to write something.  However, upon reflection,I have come to include that there is even a more important element to becoming a skilled writer.

Perhaps on many levels the most important elementary piece of developing as a writer is making sure that such a person has quiet time to contemplate and think each and every day.  Of course, carving out quiet time in the hustle and bustle of daily life in the 21^st century can be a daunting challenge.  However, I truly believe that if a person wishes to excel as a writer he or she must make room for daily contemplation.

In this regard, I am reminded of a story about Dame Agatha Christie, the prolific British mystery writer.  She happened to be taking a peaceful stroll with a friend during which they were not so much talking as enjoying the serenity of the moment.  Seemingly out of the blue, Lady Agatha  turned to her strolling companion and said: “Thank you.”

“Whatever for?”  the friend asked.

“As we walked, I worked out the ending of the book I've been working on,”  Lady Agatha replied.

In the end, if a person wishes to succeed as a writer, he or she must write every day. 

However, a dedicated writer must wait to pick up his or her pencil until after quiet time duly is spent.