In The Architect's Newspaper, Michael McDonough write an article entitled "Top Ten Things They Never Taught Me in Design School." I think many of them apply to writing as well. Here is a condensed version of the six I think are most relevant to writers, with some notes from me added:
1. "Talent is one-third of the equation."
The other thirds are hard work and luck. I think to reach the top you need all three, but you can have a career with any two.
2. "95 percent of any creative profession is shit work."
By this he means sending invoices, paying taxes, paper work, chasing up other people (like editors) etc. I disagree. I think it's only 75%.
3."If everything is equally important, then nothing is very important." His number 6 is "Don't forget your goal."
I think these belong together. The message is figure out what you really want and the set your priorities to reflect that. If it's not moving you toward your goal, just say no. Apply the 80/20 rule: spend 80% of your time on the 20% of work that gives you the highest value (however you define value).
4. "Don't over-think a problem."
I'm a big fan of letting your subconscious mind help you with problems. Study the situation long enough to know what you need and then think about something else for a while. The answer may come in a dream, or while you're in the shower or going for a walk. When your intuition tells you something, pay attention.
5. "Start with what you know; then remove the unknowns."
In writing, I'd interpret this to mean don't be daunted by the things you don't know when you start. You may have a good idea for a novel but you're not sure whether the story will sustain a full-length book, or you have a gap in the middle of the story. Just get started, brainstorm, get to know the characters, and allow the answers to come to you as you.
6. (see number three).
(For help making sure you focus on what's most important, get a copy of my book: "Focus: use the power of targeted thinking to get more done." It's published by Pearson and available from Amazon and other booksellers. For more direct support go to www.jurgenwolff.com and check out my Writing Breakthrough Strategy online mentoring program.)