Mark David Gerson's "Rules" for Writing

Mark David Gerson's "Rules" for Writing

Rule #1: There are no rules: How can there be when creativity is all about breaking new ground and breaking old rules?
Rule #2: You're not in charge, so get out of the way and let your story have its way with you.
Rule #3: Trust the voice of your Muse without judgment or censorship.
Rule #4: Always go with first thoughts. Second-thoughts are self-censoring thoughts.
Rule #5: Be in the moment: Focus only on the word you're writing. The next one will come if you don't worry about it.
Rule #6: Go for the jugular: Write from a place of powerful emotion, especially the one you'd rather not write about.
Rule #7: Love yourself and your words...every draft.
Rule #8: Don't force your words into the straitjacket of your preconceptions and expectations. Free them to take on the form that is theirs.
Rule #9: If you're feeling stuck, keep your pen moving. Write anything!
Rule #10: Write: Commit to yourself as the writer you are.
Rule #11: Set easy goals and meet them. Don't set yourself up for failure.
Rule #12: Empower yourself: This is your creative journey. Don't let anyone else take charge of it.
Rule #13: There are no rules. None. Never.

Rules for Living and Writing adapted from The Voice of the Muse: Answering the Call to Write