Above all, read. Read lots. Read widely. And write.

And if you need help getting inspired and staying organized, check this out.

Need some ideas to prime your writing pump? Check this out.

Okay, suppose I've done that and I'm sure I've got something that will rise to the top of the hundreds, or even thousands, of other manuscript in a publisher's slush pile?

If you're sure you're ready for the heartbreak of rejection, there are lots of lists of publishers available and guidelines for submitting to them. You might start with Places for Writers. But be prepared for the fact that it takes a lot of patience and persistence - both to write the best story you're capable of and to find an audience for your work.

To hear me talk about my journey to becoming a writer and offer advice to aspiring writers, listen to this audio podcast.