Maggie Aime, MSN, RN

Don't underestimate the power of good old-fashioned reading as a form of continuing education for writers. (Hint: Check out books from your local library if that's an option) Reading is an invaluable way to sharpen your skills as a writer. This includes reading books on the craft of writing, business books, or simply reading the genre you want to emulate.

At the start of each year, I set specific education goals for myself, and I allocate a dedicated budget to accomplish those goals. Naturally, I try to take advantage of as many free courses and resources as possible. But I'm also realistic that the free options alone often won't be enough. So I plan out which paid courses, conferences, or other educational opps I want to invest in. One tip that really helps me stay on track is partnering up with a friend or colleague to attend the same conference or course. It creates extra motivation to follow through, and it's harder to make excuses when you've got someone counting on you.

Try the Pomodoro method. It's been a lifesaver for me. Initially, I was concerned that my writing time would be fragmented by taking breaks and that I'd struggle to get back into the zone after those Pomodoro breaks. But it's been quite the opposite! Of course, find what works for you, your routine, your rhythms. The Pomodoro method may not be the ideal approach for you. Another habit I've implemented — though I'm a freelancer working from home — is meal prepping on the weekends! With meal prepping, there's always healthy food ready to go, and I'm much less tempted to make poor eating choices just out of convenience or hunger cravings when I'm in the middle of a busy workday.

Keep your readers' needs in mind. As a health writer, my one and only goal is to provide accurate, valuable, and easy-to-understand information to my readers. The *constructive* feedback I receive from editors ultimately helps me achieve that goal better. My best editors have taught me the importance of asking the right questions when I review my work. I've learned to critically assess my work, and it's a skill that takes time and practice to develop. I wouldn't be able to do that now if I let criticism get under my skin. That said, adopting the right mindset is easier said than done. So, keep your readers in mind and work on it.

Not a tool, but here's a strategy I use. As a health writer covering complex medical topics, I like to get feedback from alpha and beta readers. Alpha readers give early feedback, so I'd ask someone with a medical background to share their thoughts from a health perspective. Beta readers help give feedback from the end user's perspective. In health writing, the end user is generally someone without a medical background. A beta reader can provide unbiased feedback about the clarity of my writing. The different feedback helps me shape the final product into an accurate, engaging, and easy-to-understand article.

Reading out loud is an excellent strategy. But text-to-speech tools are even better! I use NaturalReader (it's free!) to have my articles read out loud to me. You'd be surprised at how often you catch complicated sentences and confusing or wordy sections. Plus, you get to give your eyes a break! Another tip: I find time is my friend when editing. Letting a draft sit a day or two (whenever possible) helps me look at it fresh when I'm ready to edit. I catch things I would otherwise gloss over. Walking away lets your brain reset. Go through the draft line by line, asking questions like "Is this word/sentence necessary?" "Does it add any value?" Remove any excess that doesn't contribute.