Don't try to write to the trend of the moment.

I write early in the morning, usually after reading portions of at least half a dozen newspapers on the web.

I hear entire symphonies, oratorios, in my head, but I can't write a note.

I try to challenge myself as much as possible, as often as possible.

I usually do one con a year as a GoH and try to make the World Fantasy Convention for business purposes. Last year I went to a worldcon for the first time in two decades. I may go again this year.

Keep writing. Try to do a little bit every day, even if the result looks like crap. Getting from page four to page five is more important than spending three weeks getting page four perfect.