Writing Tips from Amber Weigand-Buckley
What is your favorite writing craft book?
I'm a huge fan of anything Anne Lamott. Her advice to take projects step-by-step rather than becoming overwhelmed is so practical. Lamott also reminds me to infuse my personality into my work—which is a bit rough round the edges sometimes, but it's ok to be ME.
Which do you think is the most underrated writing craft book? Why?
Maybe lesser known is the correct vernacular — The Writers Bookshelf Series from Bold Vision Books (not just because I designed the covers LOL). I love how it’s so broken down into smaller “digestible areas” of writing instruction for the author—especially someone so ADHD as I am.
What is your favorite (or most anticipated) writers conference?
I absolutely love the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA) conference (awsa.com). It feels like a reunion with sisters where I can relax and refuel. I appreciate how AWSA creates an encouraging space for Christian Women Communicators to support each other as we move together into purpose. The community revitalizes me creatively and spiritually.
What’s your favorite other source (YouTube, podcast, etc.) for writing tips/info?
Specifically for writing with a purpose—Your Best Writing Life podcast. Linda Goldfarb blends writing advice with personal stories in a way that feels like a warm hug of inspiration and creativity.
Who is your writing mentor/inspiration? Why?
I get a lot of my writing inspiration from looking at small details—pictures, nature, signs, looking intentionally at life for echoes of the Father’s heart and I just want to be who He’s created me to be. I don’t want to be anyone but authentically who I am to attract readership. I don’t really have a writing mentor, I’m just willing to receive feedback, editing and not take this part of the process personal no matter how seasoned I get.
What’s the worst writing advice you’ve ever received? Why was it bad?
Now I can't say I've gotten truly terrible advice, just critiques that stung! But those harsh words grew me even if they weren’t said with the best of intent. I've learned to take feedback and sift through it. What's beneficial to improving my craft? What simply reveals the critic's own limitations? In the same way, I've had to learn to critique others with grace - bolstering their strengths and offering practical ways to improve. And even as an editor, I know I have huge blind spots and that title in itself makes people think you are a perfectionist—I will always be that messy type of perfect, ie not perfect.
What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
Just get it down somewhere. If you have an idea a rough quote a thought, just write it down. Always have a means of writing something down, except texting and driving – don’t do that.
What would you say is the best writing tip for new authors?
The best writing tip I can give new authors is to start building your tribe early! Use social media to connect with readers long before you even have a finished book. Don't be a lone ranger - take the opportunity to bless others with what you're learning on your writing journey. Share your message in bite-sized pieces online and get feedback.
What is your best self-editing tip or advice?
Reading my work aloud reveals flaws I missed. My co-writer and I read every word of our book project, Leading Ladies on a google doc during a Zoom. We were able to catch redundant words, unclear or unconnected sentences, inconsistent chapter flow and typos much easier with this tactic. It's old-school but effective.
Please share your most encouraging tip for frustrated/discouraged writers.
Just keep going.
When writer's block hits, take a pause away from your project and toward someone else. Offer encouragement to a fellow writer or reach out to a reader who connected with your work. Redirecting your focus renews motivation. Just keep going. Rest. Renew. Then come back with fresh eyes. Reserve your writing time like you're setting a Zoom appointment with God and mark it like that in your calendar. Set up clear boundaries for that time. Treat it as sacred space to commune with the Lord through your craft. He will meet you there and get those creative juices flowing again if you keep showing up!
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Just take one step toward purpose, and watch God multiply the work.
Tell us about your newest release/upcoming release.
The Journal companion to my award-winning book Leading Ladies: Discover Your God-Grown Strategy for Success (co-written by Lisa Burris Burns | Bold Vision Books), releases Spring 2024. With thoughtful prompts, Scriptures to color and meditate on, and space to capture your reflections, this journal helps the reader to define your dream, develop your gifts, and craft your own God-grown strategy for success.
Amber Weigand-Buckley is an award-winning author, speaker, magazine editor, and art director of Leading Hearts magazine. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Amber advocates for mental health while embracing her calling. She empowers women to find their wings through her book Leading Ladies, co-authored with Lisa Burris Burns (May 2023, Bold Vision Books) and via their podcast Coffee Chat with Amber and Lisa. Amber lives in Southwest Missouri with her Brit hubby of 30 years, two grown and one teen daughter, two Great Pyrenees, and a zoo of exotic pets.
Connect at www.leadingladies.life, www.leadinghearts.com or www.barefacedcreativemedia.com. Subscribe to the podcast “Coffee Chat with Amber and Lisa” wherever you listen.