Writing a book can feel like a big endeavor. It seems overwhelming. What do I write about? What stories do I tell? Where do I start?
A simpler way to start might be this: Sharing wisdom.
Continue reading “What Wisdom Would You Share?”The Power of Writing for One Reader
Imagine speaking to a room filled with people. Now imagine sitting across the table from one person, enjoying a conversation over coffee. Which one feels easier?
If you said the one-on-one conversation feels easier, you’re not alone. Many people would prefer that. Especially if you have something important to share that you think will help that person.
In a crowded room, you have no idea how, or even if your message is landing with everyone. But when you talk to just one person, you can tailor your message to them.
That’s a helpful analogy to keep in mind as you sit down to write your book, blog, stories. It’s easiest when you focus on just one reader.
Continue reading “The Power of Writing for One Reader”When Progress Isn’t Planned
I had 25 minutes before heading to a meeting. I wanted to brainstorm a few ideas for my writing project. My goal wasn’t to finish anything or even to start. Just to jot down a few thoughts, to jumpstart my next writing session.
As I started making notes, one idea led to another. By the time 25 minutes had passed, two whole sections were outlined in detail. I was reminded that we can make great progress when we don’t pressure ourselves to make any progress.
Continue reading “When Progress Isn’t Planned”Gathering Stories Like a Thanksgiving Table
Picture a Thanksgiving table—a beautiful blend of colorful dishes, familiar recipes, appetizing aromas. Each dish adds to the beauty of the table and offers a variety of ways to enjoy the meal.
Writing a book creates a similar experience. As the writer, you bring a variety of stories, examples, dialogue, explanations, and memories to your book. That richness creates a wonderful feast for your reader to enjoy.
Continue reading “Gathering Stories Like a Thanksgiving Table”Messy Beats the Blank Screen
Writers often struggle when facing a blank screen. How should they begin writing? What are the right opening words? How should they tell a story?
The blank screen seems like a roadblock. How do you get around it or move through it?
There is one simple way that works every time: Write messy.
Continue reading “Messy Beats the Blank Screen”Writing Prompt: A Childhood Summer Memory
Writing a book begins with small steps. As you practice writing smaller pieces, the bigger project starts to come together. A writing prompt—where you write in response to a particular question or topic—can help you gain momentum.
Have you ever tried writing in response to a writing prompt? It’s good practice, it exercises your writing muscles, and it can often lead to insights for your book. I’m going to share one today that you can try.
Continue reading “Writing Prompt: A Childhood Summer Memory”Want to Share Your Story? You’re Ready
A client recently told her neighbor she was working on her second book. The neighbor looked at her in awe and said, “How long have you been a writer?”
That question stuck with me. I could see the neighbor thinking that writing a book required special training. That it wasn’t something as simple as sharing stories to encourage others—something the neighbor probably does every day.
Continue reading “Want to Share Your Story? You’re Ready”A Simple Step: Write Just One Memory
The idea of writing a whole book can feel overwhelming, like climbing a mountain. But writing happens a little bit at a time, much like taking steps along a mountain trail.
You don’t have to write the whole book in a day. You don’t have to write a chapter in one sitting. Just start by writing a simple memory.
Just one.
Continue reading “A Simple Step: Write Just One Memory”How Blogging Helps You Gather Stories for Your Book
Writing a whole book of personal memories or family history can feel overwhelming. Here’s a suggestion that could help: You don’t have to wait till everything’s ready. You can start writing now, one story at a time, using a blog.
Continue reading “How Blogging Helps You Gather Stories for Your Book”Photos Help to Tell Your Life Story or Family History
If you’re writing a book about your life story or family history, you’ll probably want to include photos. Not only do photos help portray your story, but they are also a valuable part of the memories you’re sharing with future generations. Here are some tips for how photos can help you piece your story together.
Continue reading “Photos Help to Tell Your Life Story or Family History”
