I don't believe there is necessarily a "right/wrong" way to write a song or composition; rather what feels natural to the ones who create them. Each artist has a vision in how they want to convey their musical saga - which comes with its own personal journey to be experienced, as creators face both the dynamics of being celebrated and criticized.
Some creatives favor the storytelling within their lyrics or admire the enchanting atmosphere they've constructed with their instrumentals. However, I don't believe an artist/listener have to limit themself to appreciating one narrative over the other. I feel both can be valued and appreciated, as both the lyrical content & musicality of a piece often complement each other.
Independent artists have the privilege to develop their own creative toolbox that works best for them, so feel free to take or ignore any of this as you wish. With that in mind, here are a few tips and tricks that have helped me develop my personal writing style.
Listen to Music
Obvious, right? Just as important as the work you create is your origin of inspiration. In a way, how you talk and listen to people often determines how others perceive your personality. In a similar way, how you listen to music can often influence how you write.
Do you picture an environment in your mind as you listen? Do you focus on each element (i.e. Drums, Vocals, etc.) and how each one plays a role in the piece? Sometimes, it can be helpful to visualize the piece and what stands out to you - either in a drawing of what you imagine it looks like or perhaps a chart that shows each element and what changes occur in the song.
Get to Know Your Voice & Develop Your Style
In both listening to and playing music, there are characteristics that may speak to you more than others. Whether it's an internal judgement or remarks from those who hear you perform, there are influences that often draw us to consider primary focus areas.
Sometimes, it can be beneficial to outline these musical preferences and why you gravitate toward them. I would recommend singing along to your favorite songs, whether directly or with karaoke, to find your sound - as it can be a beneficial way to determine both songs that sit naturally in your [current] range and the artistic tendencies you exhibit. For example, here's a self-evaluated outline of my musical/writing style:
Clarity: The importance and awareness of diction came to me as advice, encouraged by both my High School Choir & Theatre Teachers. Not only can good execution of this detail help listeners hear lyrical content better, but it can often shape the tone of a song. In this regard, I've looked up to the style of many elegant crooners: One of the most influential examples brought up in my Theatre class was Frank Sinatra.
That being said, it's important to note - extreme emphasis of pronunciation has the potential to distract listeners as well, simultaneously limiting artists from expressing the melodic soul that tends to resonate with people more. However, having a good sense of articulation in your words can marginally reduce the need to project your voice.
Short N' Sweet: In an effort to reduce complaints of repetition, I tend to write shorter songs. This insecurity of mine is rooted in a specific core memory:
In Middle School, our class was waiting in the Music Room before Graduation Night would begin. Limited in my knowledge of songs I could play, I was repeating The Hanging Tree on the piano in our room; eventually one of our teachers had enough and announced in front of the class - "WHO'S PLAYING THAT SONG?!" The crowded chatter shot silent, as everyone began to stare at me alone; the light in my eyes had burned out.
Later in my life, as I was in high school, my father encouraged the notion in a healthier manner. He gave me advice: It's better to leave your audience wanting more than less. I became fascinated with this idea, as I got introduced to some of The Beatles' greatest hits - Eleanor Rigby caught my attention for this very reason.
After hearing of his passing, I was introduced to the artist Bill Withers and one of his famous songs: Ain't No Sunshine - which further reinforced this concept and fascination.
These examples and more taught me something important in songwriting: It's not always about how long a piece should be, but what you're able to do in each section to make the experience of listening to it worth remembering.
Emotions/Soul: Music gives both the artists and the audience an opportunity to be emotionally vulnerable in a culture where vocal expression is otherwise often frowned upon. In each record/performance, I want to make it easier for my audience to believe in the lyrics and emotions I'm trying to express. I find it difficult to convey these emotions through my face without judgement, so I've got to make them believable through my voice.
Remember, all of these can be general parameters. You are always allowed to experiment in individual pieces or a change in style all together. As artists and human beings, no particular thing or person has to define who you are. We all have a right to grow and develop over time.
Take Your Time & Experiment
There's a world of possibilities to be discovered in the realm of songwriting. Even in the cliche topics, like falling in love and heartbreak, there's still room for new inspiration: the third wheel, a love you share with/express to one of your family members, the loss of a friendship, etc. But just as important is the foundation. It's not only acknowledging if there's a Verse, Chorus, etc.
What makes each section unique? Repetition can be a great way to help people remember your song, but don't underestimate what a small amount of variety can do. Say for example, you have the same drum pattern throughout the entire song. It's okay if you believe this best represents your expression for the piece: go for it! But if you see there's more potential for a change in each section, that's okay as well! From my personal experience, I have found that slight variations of what's played can significantly improve the quality of your composition.
Most important of all, take your time and try new things. If you don't like the new idea, you are not bound to it. But this gives your composition and writing capabilities a chance to grow. Be curious; some of my "mistakes" have made the final cut in a few songs.
Here's a secret to try: throw an augmented/diminished chord or two at the end of your chord progression. As individual chords, they may sound harsh and dissonant. However, when you place it with the other harmonious chords, it catches the ear and interest that your audience wouldn't be expecting.
Let your songs grow up with you, especially if you feel like they aren't ready yet. There's a rush put on us. While we only have so long in life to live our dreams, if somethings not ready yet, it could need more time before you decide when to pick it back up.
Give Yourself an Outlet to Share Your Progress
What's important to songwriting is the process you make that's meant to be fun. People will tell you it's hard work that's exhausting, which to some extent can be true. But, contrary to it being a toxic comparison game, it can be such a rewarding, cathartic experience as well. So much of your perspective will depend on who you surround yourself with.
Whether it's an open mic night, a songwriting club, sending your friend a video of the piece you've been working on, etc., it can be a great benefit to go perform where others hear your talent/skill. Sometimes, it is the encouragement or the constructive criticism that helps us want to continue making music, as we are often our own worst critic.
Take What People Say with a Grain of Salt
It is important to be able to take criticism for your work, as there will always be another goal to work towards. That being said, if someone says you need to change elements in your music, understand it as a mere suggestion. I had a [now former] friend who was really into rhythm, so anytime I displayed my naturally imperfect pulse expression, he wanted me to be more like them.