There's only one bit of advice I have given or would give in the future concerning writing and that's all encompassed in one word - persistence. If you want to get fancy and need a few more syllables, -then persistence on a given course. Persistence puts you in front of opportunities to learn something about life and writing. Persistence gives you time to learn the craft and make mistakes which we all need. Persistence eventually means the crowd you're running against (like the start of the Boston Marathon) lessens over time until it's a reasonable number that you'll have to overcome to get published. Persistence shields us somewhat from the pain of invisibility as we struggle with question from others like - are you a writer? Even the most inarticulate adult started off knowing no words and eventually improved a 1000% from where he started - persistence. Persistence will even show you writing isn't for you, giving you enough time to choose a life that's more rewarding and more visible. It's a useful word.