Working as a writer has long been a popular work at home job. It has become an increasingly viable way to earn a good income, as the Internet has increased the possibilities. You don't just have to worry about whether or not someone else will find your work worth publishing. Now you have more people wanting content to publish and more ways to earn money from your own work. Earning a living as a writer still is not necessarily easy. You're going to have to work at your craft. You won't always find people interested in what you would prefer to write. You may have to work on your style and how it relates to people interested in your services. Many writers work for others.
There are many employers of varying sorts. You can go freelance and find individual assignments, or you can find someone who needs your writing skills regularly. There are advantages to each option, and it can very much so be a matter of personal preference. Publishing your own work has become incredibly easy. Many people earn a living writing for their own website, whether in blog form or otherwise. The earning potential varies tremendously, depending on topic and your own skill at monetizing a website. But with the right software you don't have to be a great website designer or constantly pay someone to maintain your site for you. All you need is to get set up and go.
There are also many opportunities in writing for others. Many website owners would sooner pay someone else to do their writing, whether it be writing articles for their site or sales copy for their product. You bring the skills; they tell you what is needed. It's easy to work for low pay online. There's a lot of competition out there, and many writers willing to work for a pittance. It can be hard to get serious pay as a writer, but it is not impossible. Show your quality and know that you are worth it. If you're helping people earn a better living, they will know when you're the writer they need to keep using. In many cases, having your own website is strongly recommended.
It's a way to show off your work and attract clients if you're freelancing. A good website is a major part of your presence on the web. Even if you don't expect to do a lot of marketing online, listing a website on your business card is just one more sign of being serious and professional. There have rarely been more possibilities for earning a living as a writer. Not all writers will succeed, and not all styles of writing will appeal to people online. But if you can adapt you will give yourself more chances to build a viable business as a writer.
About the Author:
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Sunday, June 28, 2009
Saturday, June 27, 2009
You Can Be An Author
You should write a book.” For years, I had been hearing this comment. Writing an entire book seemed completely overwhelming, and so, for a long time, I contented myself with writing short articles. One day, inspiration for an article hit me and, as I started writing, paragraphs began flowing out at an enormous rate. Before I knew it, a rather lengthy piece was developing. It was too long to be an article, so, I decided it would not hurt to try self-publishing a little booklet. Was I ever surprised! The first printing of this 32-page black and white booklet sold out within a week.
All of us have an area which we have more knowledge and experience than the person next to us. What many do not realize is that there is often a hungry market out there ready and willing to pay for the information we have to offer. Yes, it takes a tremendous amount of effort to see a book to completion and printing, but it is well worth it.
Some things I have learned through the experience:
1. Start small. Don’t attempt to tackle a 400-page work for your first publication. You will also save yourself a bundle on printing if you keep it small. I recommend a booklet under 50-pages to launch your career as an author.
2. Enlist the help of others who are more experienced. If you know someone who has published anything, ask their advice and help. You will gain invaluable information from them and save yourself many headaches. In addition, request assistance from others for editing and proofreading. No matter how meticulous you are, it is always good to have other eyes review the final draft before it goes to the printer.
3. Be prepared to deal with disappointment. When you put your heart into something only to hear, "We're not interested," it is easy to take it personally. But, you must continually remind yourself that this is part of the package deal in self-publishing. For every "yes" you receive at least five "no's" (or so it seems). Learning to humbly and graciously accept rejection, not let it get you down, and keep pressing forward is an absolute must in self-publishing, especially at the beginning.
4. The more you market, the more you sell. You can publish an excellent book, but unless people know it is available, you cannot expect many buyers. The possibilities for marketing are endless. Check out all the books on marketing your local library offers. These will give you some great starter ideas. Send out an e-mail to friends, family, and business associates announcing your book’s publication date and offer a limited-time pre-publication special. Join self-publishing groups and let them know about your book. Ask others to promote your book. Be pro-active and do not be afraid to try novel ideas!
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Arvinder Jeet Singh
For More Free Resources visit http://www.onlinepublishingsite.com
All of us have an area which we have more knowledge and experience than the person next to us. What many do not realize is that there is often a hungry market out there ready and willing to pay for the information we have to offer. Yes, it takes a tremendous amount of effort to see a book to completion and printing, but it is well worth it.
Some things I have learned through the experience:
1. Start small. Don’t attempt to tackle a 400-page work for your first publication. You will also save yourself a bundle on printing if you keep it small. I recommend a booklet under 50-pages to launch your career as an author.
2. Enlist the help of others who are more experienced. If you know someone who has published anything, ask their advice and help. You will gain invaluable information from them and save yourself many headaches. In addition, request assistance from others for editing and proofreading. No matter how meticulous you are, it is always good to have other eyes review the final draft before it goes to the printer.
3. Be prepared to deal with disappointment. When you put your heart into something only to hear, "We're not interested," it is easy to take it personally. But, you must continually remind yourself that this is part of the package deal in self-publishing. For every "yes" you receive at least five "no's" (or so it seems). Learning to humbly and graciously accept rejection, not let it get you down, and keep pressing forward is an absolute must in self-publishing, especially at the beginning.
4. The more you market, the more you sell. You can publish an excellent book, but unless people know it is available, you cannot expect many buyers. The possibilities for marketing are endless. Check out all the books on marketing your local library offers. These will give you some great starter ideas. Send out an e-mail to friends, family, and business associates announcing your book’s publication date and offer a limited-time pre-publication special. Join self-publishing groups and let them know about your book. Ask others to promote your book. Be pro-active and do not be afraid to try novel ideas!
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Arvinder Jeet Singh
For More Free Resources visit http://www.onlinepublishingsite.com
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
In My Opinion, I Think that I Believe This Is Bad Writing
I recently responded to the following question: “I am trying to improve the exposition/argument I am writing in English. What can I write instead of 'in my opinion . . .'?"
As an editor, I like writing that gets to the point, communicates confidently, and provides new information. Phrases such as “in my opinion,” “I think that,” and “I believe” create three problems for writers.
They delay the writer’s message.
They demonstrate insecurity.
They tell the reader what he already knows.
Let’s look at why this is, using the sample sentence, “In my opinion, flowers are better than elephants.”
1. Delayed message
The statement the writer wants to make is “flowers are better than elephants.” If that’s the statement, then the writer simply needs to make it and not waste the reader’s time with “in my opinion.” Phrases such as “in my opinion” will always delay the writer from the point he or she wants to make. My advice: Get to the point. Make the statement.
2. Insecurity
Writers use these types of phrases so that they don’t have to make clear, definitive, confident answers. When you express something as only an opinion or personal belief, you can’t be blamed later if you are wrong. After all, the statement was only an opinion, not fact. The reader will be right to wonder if the information is only opinion, in which case it can be ignored, or if it is fact. Strong, confident writing expresses information as the truth. Confident writing is more direct and more persuasive.
3. Unnecessary information
Who is writing the words? The writer is. Unless the writer is quoting or citing the ideas from someone else, whose ideas are they? The writer’s. What this means is that the statement is the writers idea, opinion, belief, and thoughts. The reader will understand this. As such, the writer doesn’t need to tell the reader that the ideas are his own.
Formal vs. informal writing
In personal writing, such as letters, diaries, journals, and private memos, the writer can write whatever he wants, however he wants. In formal writing, though, the standards are much higher. Formal writing includes academic papers, business reports, letters to colleagues or stakeholders, and journal articles.
Standards are higher for two main reasons. First, the need to communicate accurately is higher. Ideas are stated more directly and clearly. Second, the writer needs to create an image, or demonstrate a level of credibility. When a writer creates a good image, the reader will be confident that the information is accurate and that the person writing is credible. By maintaining high standards, the writer builds trust in the reader.
Answer to the question
So this brings us back to the original question: “What can I write instead of ‘in my opinion’?” Based on the issues discussed above, the answer is “Nothing.” In my response to the person asking the question, I encouraged him to remove that phrase, or any similar phrase, and get to the point. “Don’t replace it with something else,” I advised. “Replace it with nothing."
Using our example
Instead of writing, “In my opinion, flowers are better than elephants,” the writer should concisely, directly, and confidently state, “Flowers are better than elephants.”
About the Author:
David Bowman is the Owner and Chief Editor of Precise Edit, a comprehensive editing, proofreading, and document analysis service for authors, students, and businesses. Precise Edit also offers a variety of other services, such as translation, transcription, and website development.
http://preciseedit.com
As an editor, I like writing that gets to the point, communicates confidently, and provides new information. Phrases such as “in my opinion,” “I think that,” and “I believe” create three problems for writers.
They delay the writer’s message.
They demonstrate insecurity.
They tell the reader what he already knows.
Let’s look at why this is, using the sample sentence, “In my opinion, flowers are better than elephants.”
1. Delayed message
The statement the writer wants to make is “flowers are better than elephants.” If that’s the statement, then the writer simply needs to make it and not waste the reader’s time with “in my opinion.” Phrases such as “in my opinion” will always delay the writer from the point he or she wants to make. My advice: Get to the point. Make the statement.
2. Insecurity
Writers use these types of phrases so that they don’t have to make clear, definitive, confident answers. When you express something as only an opinion or personal belief, you can’t be blamed later if you are wrong. After all, the statement was only an opinion, not fact. The reader will be right to wonder if the information is only opinion, in which case it can be ignored, or if it is fact. Strong, confident writing expresses information as the truth. Confident writing is more direct and more persuasive.
3. Unnecessary information
Who is writing the words? The writer is. Unless the writer is quoting or citing the ideas from someone else, whose ideas are they? The writer’s. What this means is that the statement is the writers idea, opinion, belief, and thoughts. The reader will understand this. As such, the writer doesn’t need to tell the reader that the ideas are his own.
Formal vs. informal writing
In personal writing, such as letters, diaries, journals, and private memos, the writer can write whatever he wants, however he wants. In formal writing, though, the standards are much higher. Formal writing includes academic papers, business reports, letters to colleagues or stakeholders, and journal articles.
Standards are higher for two main reasons. First, the need to communicate accurately is higher. Ideas are stated more directly and clearly. Second, the writer needs to create an image, or demonstrate a level of credibility. When a writer creates a good image, the reader will be confident that the information is accurate and that the person writing is credible. By maintaining high standards, the writer builds trust in the reader.
Answer to the question
So this brings us back to the original question: “What can I write instead of ‘in my opinion’?” Based on the issues discussed above, the answer is “Nothing.” In my response to the person asking the question, I encouraged him to remove that phrase, or any similar phrase, and get to the point. “Don’t replace it with something else,” I advised. “Replace it with nothing."
Using our example
Instead of writing, “In my opinion, flowers are better than elephants,” the writer should concisely, directly, and confidently state, “Flowers are better than elephants.”
About the Author:
David Bowman is the Owner and Chief Editor of Precise Edit, a comprehensive editing, proofreading, and document analysis service for authors, students, and businesses. Precise Edit also offers a variety of other services, such as translation, transcription, and website development.
http://preciseedit.com
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
How Earning $500 a Day Writing Online Is Possible
There are writers right now earning $500 a day writing online. Some writers have managed to make an easy six figures doing something we all love and do on a regular basis; writing (typing). Thanks to the Internet, it has opened a lot of doors for writers who are interested in making tons of money. This is because Google is mostly made up of content, and without it, the Internet will die.
Websites need to be updated on a regular basis so it can receive traffic from Google. Webmasters/site owners know this, so they are willing to fork over hundreds of dollars to regular writers like me just to get original and niche targeted articles. There are hundreds of sites that will pay their writers based on how many page views they get or Google adsense earnings they make. Here are a couple of ways you can start making a six figure income writing online:
Article Marketing- this method of writing is one of the most traditional ways of earning money on the Internet as a writer. Most people relate article marketing with Internet marketers, but they are really not the same (although they can go hand and hand). Article marketing is the act of writing informative articles that relate to a product you may be selling or pitching. You then publish this article at an article directory and place a link back to your affiliate program or website in the resource box. The article marketer then receives traffic to their own website either through direct clicks from the directory or from the search engines.
Revenue sharing sites- This is one of the most favored ways of earning money as a writer because you don't have to invest in your website. Most revenue sharing sites pay their writers based on how many page views they get or much they earn in Google Adsense earnings. While this is not the breadwinner of the different methods to making money online, it is a good way to earn cash especially for new writers. Most revenue sharing sites pay on a monthly basis.
Niche Related Articles- Webmasters will pay almost anything for decent original articles. This is because they know these niche articles are targeted towards a specific audience, which will increase their conversion rates for their related products they may have on their site. It is hard to find original content, and there is always a need for original content. Some popular niche topics include; Entertainment, Health, Technology and Fashion.
As you can see, there are many ways you can make money writing for the Internet without spending or investing any money. This is how earning $500 a day writing for the Internet is made simple.
About the Author:
Williams is an author and e-book writer who has written many guides related to writing and Business. For the ultimate guide for making $1000 a day writing online, please visit Get Paid To Write At Your House: http://www.writing-cash.justdrop.in
Websites need to be updated on a regular basis so it can receive traffic from Google. Webmasters/site owners know this, so they are willing to fork over hundreds of dollars to regular writers like me just to get original and niche targeted articles. There are hundreds of sites that will pay their writers based on how many page views they get or Google adsense earnings they make. Here are a couple of ways you can start making a six figure income writing online:
Article Marketing- this method of writing is one of the most traditional ways of earning money on the Internet as a writer. Most people relate article marketing with Internet marketers, but they are really not the same (although they can go hand and hand). Article marketing is the act of writing informative articles that relate to a product you may be selling or pitching. You then publish this article at an article directory and place a link back to your affiliate program or website in the resource box. The article marketer then receives traffic to their own website either through direct clicks from the directory or from the search engines.
Revenue sharing sites- This is one of the most favored ways of earning money as a writer because you don't have to invest in your website. Most revenue sharing sites pay their writers based on how many page views they get or much they earn in Google Adsense earnings. While this is not the breadwinner of the different methods to making money online, it is a good way to earn cash especially for new writers. Most revenue sharing sites pay on a monthly basis.
Niche Related Articles- Webmasters will pay almost anything for decent original articles. This is because they know these niche articles are targeted towards a specific audience, which will increase their conversion rates for their related products they may have on their site. It is hard to find original content, and there is always a need for original content. Some popular niche topics include; Entertainment, Health, Technology and Fashion.
As you can see, there are many ways you can make money writing for the Internet without spending or investing any money. This is how earning $500 a day writing for the Internet is made simple.
About the Author:
Williams is an author and e-book writer who has written many guides related to writing and Business. For the ultimate guide for making $1000 a day writing online, please visit Get Paid To Write At Your House: http://www.writing-cash.justdrop.in
Monday, June 15, 2009
Stephen King on how to write
Everyone writes for an audience, even diary writers, who are their own audience. A letter writer may write for an audience of one, a business writer may write of an audience of thousands or more, if they are fortunate, and the Stephen Kings of the world write for millions. Regardless of audience size, writers want readers to read what they have written.
If you want to write, you need to read books on writing; you need to surf the web to see what other writers are doing; you need to look at articles and other resources. In addition to reading on the craft of writing, you need to read. Stephen King's quote captures the importance of reading in four sentences:
It's hard for me to believe that people who read very little - or not at all in some cases - should presume to write and expect people to like what they have written. Can I be blunt on this subject? If you don't have time to read, you don't have the time - or the tools - to write. Simple as that.
Reading is the foundation that all writing is built on. When we read, from cereal boxes to Shakespeare, with Stephen King in between, we absorb the examples that we will later use to write. Read quantity; read quality; read obsessively. Turn your TV off. Read while you eat breakfast and brush your teeth; read during your lunch break and while you exercise; read after dinner and read in bed. Reading leads to writing.
If you like romances, science fiction, and westerns, read them. If not, read at least one of each. Read the Great Books. For more information on the Great Books, read about them at Wikipedia. Read the great authors of the world. If you are not sure who the great authors are, google and find out. Read magazines and newspapers. Read what you like and read at least a small amount of what you don't like. Just read.
When you read, a number of things happen. On the micro level, your ability to play with words grows. You meet words hanging around with other words that you would not have considered for your own writing. You begin to appreciate the elasticity of words. Still on the micro level, you develop a keener sense of linking one sentence to another.
At the macro level, you begin to see writers responding to each other. You'll find ideas that you want to explore and built upon. You'll develop your own database of ideas.
Between the micro and the macro levels, you may want to consider, if you're not already doing so, keeping a journal. Journals are ideal for developing a database of ideas and experiences that can be incorporated into your writing. Ideas can sometimes be quite slippery, but writing these ideas down makes them clearer. Having ideas in a place where you can regularly visit them means that you have a foundation upon which to build.
In addition to reading and writing, you may want to look for other writers to talk to and read with. As writers and as readers, community can be a significant addition to helping us produce new work and get input.
Still, you're the writer and you have the ultimate say in what works and what doesn't work for you. That goes without saying.
After you have read and read and read, read books on writing. Read "The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White. Find all the books on writing in your local and not so local libraries. Read them. Borrow writing books from friends and acquaintances. Read them. Google and see what other books on writing look good to read. Ask your library to get you copies. Read.
As you read, you may begin to look at words in a new light. You may begin to see how words are bits and pieces of meaning that writers string together to create an entire world. Words become tools for developing and shaping a slice of the world. You might want to think about diaries and how they are written. What is important in one entry has been forgotten three entries later. Now becomes the most important element in the diary. This may be true of the news. Novels are at the other end of the writing spectrum. Although novels do have a now, novels focus on plots that develop over time.
As you read books on writing, continue to read other books. You will begin to be more conscious of the technical aspects of writing including vocabulary use, punctuation variety, and strong nouns and verbs. Congratulations! You have become a reader. Now, you can think about becoming a writer.
Article submitted by: http://www.aaronlanguage.com
If you want to write, you need to read books on writing; you need to surf the web to see what other writers are doing; you need to look at articles and other resources. In addition to reading on the craft of writing, you need to read. Stephen King's quote captures the importance of reading in four sentences:
It's hard for me to believe that people who read very little - or not at all in some cases - should presume to write and expect people to like what they have written. Can I be blunt on this subject? If you don't have time to read, you don't have the time - or the tools - to write. Simple as that.
Reading is the foundation that all writing is built on. When we read, from cereal boxes to Shakespeare, with Stephen King in between, we absorb the examples that we will later use to write. Read quantity; read quality; read obsessively. Turn your TV off. Read while you eat breakfast and brush your teeth; read during your lunch break and while you exercise; read after dinner and read in bed. Reading leads to writing.
If you like romances, science fiction, and westerns, read them. If not, read at least one of each. Read the Great Books. For more information on the Great Books, read about them at Wikipedia. Read the great authors of the world. If you are not sure who the great authors are, google and find out. Read magazines and newspapers. Read what you like and read at least a small amount of what you don't like. Just read.
When you read, a number of things happen. On the micro level, your ability to play with words grows. You meet words hanging around with other words that you would not have considered for your own writing. You begin to appreciate the elasticity of words. Still on the micro level, you develop a keener sense of linking one sentence to another.
At the macro level, you begin to see writers responding to each other. You'll find ideas that you want to explore and built upon. You'll develop your own database of ideas.
Between the micro and the macro levels, you may want to consider, if you're not already doing so, keeping a journal. Journals are ideal for developing a database of ideas and experiences that can be incorporated into your writing. Ideas can sometimes be quite slippery, but writing these ideas down makes them clearer. Having ideas in a place where you can regularly visit them means that you have a foundation upon which to build.
In addition to reading and writing, you may want to look for other writers to talk to and read with. As writers and as readers, community can be a significant addition to helping us produce new work and get input.
Still, you're the writer and you have the ultimate say in what works and what doesn't work for you. That goes without saying.
After you have read and read and read, read books on writing. Read "The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White. Find all the books on writing in your local and not so local libraries. Read them. Borrow writing books from friends and acquaintances. Read them. Google and see what other books on writing look good to read. Ask your library to get you copies. Read.
As you read, you may begin to look at words in a new light. You may begin to see how words are bits and pieces of meaning that writers string together to create an entire world. Words become tools for developing and shaping a slice of the world. You might want to think about diaries and how they are written. What is important in one entry has been forgotten three entries later. Now becomes the most important element in the diary. This may be true of the news. Novels are at the other end of the writing spectrum. Although novels do have a now, novels focus on plots that develop over time.
As you read books on writing, continue to read other books. You will begin to be more conscious of the technical aspects of writing including vocabulary use, punctuation variety, and strong nouns and verbs. Congratulations! You have become a reader. Now, you can think about becoming a writer.
Article submitted by: http://www.aaronlanguage.com
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Writing a Juvenile Fiction Series
Harry Potter has "disapparated," A Series of Unfortunate Events has come to its tragic ending. So what's the next great children's book series? And more importantly, could you be the one to write it?
It seems every other writer wants to pen "the next Harry Potter." But before plunging headlong into the world of juvenile series fiction, there are a few things to consider.
Why write a series?
The benefits of writing series fiction for kids boil down to three essentials:
1. Hone your craft. I learned the craft of mystery writing by selling the Chet Gecko Mysteries series and having to write the books on deadline. Series teach you about plotting, character, motivation, maintaining consistency, and how to sit down and write when your Muse is on vacation and you'd rather be off surfing.
2. Hook readers. Series are "training wheel books." The familiarity of the characters and world make it easier for the reader to enter with each succeeding tale. This builds literacy skills and creates new readers who will want to read whatever you come up with.
3. Get a steadier paycheck. Let's face it: those of us who are serious about making our living as fiction writers lack the steady paycheck of the nine-to-fiver. Selling and writing a series gives you predictable advances on royalties -- as long as you keep up with your deadlines.
Convinced? Consider one more thing before taking the plunge.
Avoid this big mistake many writers make
I know, I know. You've got a whole world mapped out, including spin-off books, histories for all the characters, toy designs, and casting suggestions for the movie. But reign in that enthusiasm for a minute.
The biggest mistake most writers make is trying to plan the whole series before taking care of the basics: writing the best possible first book.
Before even thinking about selling your series (to say nothing of the merchandising rights), start by writing an amazingly good first book of the series. Make sure your tale has these essentials:
- A strong voice,
- A sympathetic lead character,
- Colorful, lively writing, and
- A well-constructed plot.
Most editors don't want to see all 12 manuscripts and your 20-page marketing plan. They want to see one wonderful story and hear why you think your series is unique.
And if you can manage that, you're one step closer to creating the next Harry Potter. Good luck with that.
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Bruce Hale
Bruce Hale is the author and illustrator of more than 20 books for kids, including the bestselling Chet Gecko Mysteries and Underwhere. Find out more about how to write and publish children in his free e-newsletter at www.brucetalks.com.
It seems every other writer wants to pen "the next Harry Potter." But before plunging headlong into the world of juvenile series fiction, there are a few things to consider.
Why write a series?
The benefits of writing series fiction for kids boil down to three essentials:
1. Hone your craft. I learned the craft of mystery writing by selling the Chet Gecko Mysteries series and having to write the books on deadline. Series teach you about plotting, character, motivation, maintaining consistency, and how to sit down and write when your Muse is on vacation and you'd rather be off surfing.
2. Hook readers. Series are "training wheel books." The familiarity of the characters and world make it easier for the reader to enter with each succeeding tale. This builds literacy skills and creates new readers who will want to read whatever you come up with.
3. Get a steadier paycheck. Let's face it: those of us who are serious about making our living as fiction writers lack the steady paycheck of the nine-to-fiver. Selling and writing a series gives you predictable advances on royalties -- as long as you keep up with your deadlines.
Convinced? Consider one more thing before taking the plunge.
Avoid this big mistake many writers make
I know, I know. You've got a whole world mapped out, including spin-off books, histories for all the characters, toy designs, and casting suggestions for the movie. But reign in that enthusiasm for a minute.
The biggest mistake most writers make is trying to plan the whole series before taking care of the basics: writing the best possible first book.
Before even thinking about selling your series (to say nothing of the merchandising rights), start by writing an amazingly good first book of the series. Make sure your tale has these essentials:
- A strong voice,
- A sympathetic lead character,
- Colorful, lively writing, and
- A well-constructed plot.
Most editors don't want to see all 12 manuscripts and your 20-page marketing plan. They want to see one wonderful story and hear why you think your series is unique.
And if you can manage that, you're one step closer to creating the next Harry Potter. Good luck with that.
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Bruce Hale
Bruce Hale is the author and illustrator of more than 20 books for kids, including the bestselling Chet Gecko Mysteries and Underwhere. Find out more about how to write and publish children in his free e-newsletter at www.brucetalks.com.
Creating a Story
Who doesn't love a story?! Whether it's ours or theirs, fiction or non-fiction? Who doesn't want to be drawn in and captivated? From the days of humans exchanging tales around a flickering cave fire to watching today's widescreen TV, storytelling as a way of embellishing or improvising an event is an art that will always be with us. Ancient times as well as our current high-tech times have provided stories which educate, entertain, convey information, put forth the morals of a particular culture and more.
Powerful personal stories increase the impact of any presentation. Whatever information or point you want to get across, add a story. You will capture your audience's interest and help clarify your message, thus increasing the overall effectiveness of your presentation. A personal story woven through your presentation increases the interest factor by several degrees. If you need to lay out technical details, don't forget to touch the human side of your audience. The human qualities in your story will inject life into any potentially dry presentation which may cause your audience to drift off and start planning the rest of their day. Wrapping your point or information in a story suggests informality and candor, and keeps the audience alert and interested.
A personal story about a frightening or difficult situation adds drama to your presentation. From that primitive stone-age tribe who sat around and listened to stories in their cave to today's high tech sales force armed with the latest electronics, the art of storytelling survives. Stories capture attention and make information believable, memorable and understandable.
Believability
Storytelling builds authenticity. Studies* show that stories make information more believable. In research about the believability of advertising claims, several groups were shown advertising which was based on: 1) Stories about the founder and his family; 2) Statistics about the company; 3) A story and a few statistics. Surprisingly? the groups who were told only the story -- without any statistics at all -- were most likely to believe that the advertising claims were true and that the company would follow its proffered policies.
Memorability
Stories help an audience retain the information you give them. Facts and dry data are processed in the left hemisphere of the brain -- the linear, logical and analytical side. By including stories in your presentation, you activate the right hemisphere of the brain -- the creative, emotional and playful side. When listeners hear a good story, they visualize images and experience feelings. When the information you give them is processed by the "whole brain," it will be remembered and more meaningful to the listener.
Relationships
Stories build relationships with listeners. The speaker connects with the listener in a way that responds to some of our deepest desires to be connected. When companies screen for employees, they pay close attention to the candidates' verbal interpretive skills. The ability to communicate at the interpersonal level and to build relationships is extremely important. These interpersonal skills include the ability to tell stories effectively, thereby creating a shared experience. When you give a presentation, you need to build a warm and receptive environment with a story to create this shared experience.
Elements of Effective Stories
* Reveal something personal about yourself, the presenter. What are you really like? What is the company really like? * Use humility and vulnerability to build empathy. Don't relate a personal success; instead, describe a personal difficulty so the audience will empathize with you. * Choose an incident or emotional experience -- a common reference point -- with which the audience can identify. * Develop characters for your story and make them come to life. Let the audience see the emotions of the characters in your story. * Use archetypes -- universal symbols like a mother, teacher, fool, powerful leader -- to reel in your audience and help them relate to your story on a deeper level. * Use details to hook the audience. Stimulate their imagination by using exact times, dates, what others looked like. Create relevant details and visual images. * Conflict is at the heart of any good story. Describe a struggle. People understand struggles between opposing people or forces as well as in themselves. * Create dialogue for your characters. Use specific quotations and different voices so the audience feels they are there, eavesdropping on the conversation.
Creating a Story
* Opening: A story is anchored in time and space. For example: "Last night I was describing this workshop to my spouse and..." * Body: Build your story with significant personal events, vivid details and clearly drawn characters. Add depth and dramatic impact with conflict, archetypes, vulnerability and dialogue. Make sure to include a common reference point. Connect with your audience and build trust. * Conclusion: End strongly and segue to a relevant point. Build a transitional bridge from your story back to a pertinent topic in your presentation.
Practice
Time yourself telling the story you decide to use. Preferably, tell it to another person. If no one is available, tell it to the furniture in the room or try it out in front of a mirror.
Now practice getting into and out of the story more quickly. Edit: trim unnecessary details and fill in any gaps you noticed while telling the story. On your second telling, try to cut in half the time it takes to tell the story. If your story still drags, keep cutting and polishing, until it flows.
Example
This is one example of the power of stories and storytelling. I read this story in an article titled, Telling Tales: The art of corporate storytelling in the October 2007 issue of The Costco Connection, a magazine put out by Costco as a way of connecting with their customers.
Medtronic started as a home hobby and has grown into a worldwide creator and manufacturer of medical technology. Medtronic, based in Minneapolis, has embraced storytelling as a key ingredient of its success. Every December, the company throws a holiday party for its employees and invites six patients and their physicians to attend and share how they were helped by Medtronic's products.
One patient who shared his story was Gary Prazac, who was diagnosed with Parkinsons' disease at age 49. Prazac emotionally recounted how the disease turned him into an "old man, shuffling along with a cane and wearing the ‘Parkinson's mask'", a deadpan facial expression.
Prazac explained how he had become stuck at an airport when he was unable to move from his chair, forcing him to miss his plane. Huge doses of medication helped control the tremors but caused other unwelcome symptoms. This went on for years, until his doctor suggested a new therapy involving the implantation of a deep-brain-stimulation device made by Medtronic. Prazac said, "The surgery reversed at least 10 years of symptoms. It was literally a miracle. Medtronic gave me my smile back."
Medtronic's Chairman and CEO, Art Collins, attributes much of the company's success to the stories told at the holiday events, calling it "the day we come together as a family joined by a great and enduring mission; serving others."
*Pondy, L.R. et al., Organization Symbolism
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author:
The Henderson Group trains and coaches business professionals in the art of communication and presentation through our experiential methodology. Since 1990, The Henderson Group has helped Fortune 500 companies worldwide improve employee productivity and business results through the development of communication skills. You can find us online at SpeakFearlessly.net and HendersonGroup.com or Attend A Workshop
Powerful personal stories increase the impact of any presentation. Whatever information or point you want to get across, add a story. You will capture your audience's interest and help clarify your message, thus increasing the overall effectiveness of your presentation. A personal story woven through your presentation increases the interest factor by several degrees. If you need to lay out technical details, don't forget to touch the human side of your audience. The human qualities in your story will inject life into any potentially dry presentation which may cause your audience to drift off and start planning the rest of their day. Wrapping your point or information in a story suggests informality and candor, and keeps the audience alert and interested.
A personal story about a frightening or difficult situation adds drama to your presentation. From that primitive stone-age tribe who sat around and listened to stories in their cave to today's high tech sales force armed with the latest electronics, the art of storytelling survives. Stories capture attention and make information believable, memorable and understandable.
Believability
Storytelling builds authenticity. Studies* show that stories make information more believable. In research about the believability of advertising claims, several groups were shown advertising which was based on: 1) Stories about the founder and his family; 2) Statistics about the company; 3) A story and a few statistics. Surprisingly? the groups who were told only the story -- without any statistics at all -- were most likely to believe that the advertising claims were true and that the company would follow its proffered policies.
Memorability
Stories help an audience retain the information you give them. Facts and dry data are processed in the left hemisphere of the brain -- the linear, logical and analytical side. By including stories in your presentation, you activate the right hemisphere of the brain -- the creative, emotional and playful side. When listeners hear a good story, they visualize images and experience feelings. When the information you give them is processed by the "whole brain," it will be remembered and more meaningful to the listener.
Relationships
Stories build relationships with listeners. The speaker connects with the listener in a way that responds to some of our deepest desires to be connected. When companies screen for employees, they pay close attention to the candidates' verbal interpretive skills. The ability to communicate at the interpersonal level and to build relationships is extremely important. These interpersonal skills include the ability to tell stories effectively, thereby creating a shared experience. When you give a presentation, you need to build a warm and receptive environment with a story to create this shared experience.
Elements of Effective Stories
* Reveal something personal about yourself, the presenter. What are you really like? What is the company really like? * Use humility and vulnerability to build empathy. Don't relate a personal success; instead, describe a personal difficulty so the audience will empathize with you. * Choose an incident or emotional experience -- a common reference point -- with which the audience can identify. * Develop characters for your story and make them come to life. Let the audience see the emotions of the characters in your story. * Use archetypes -- universal symbols like a mother, teacher, fool, powerful leader -- to reel in your audience and help them relate to your story on a deeper level. * Use details to hook the audience. Stimulate their imagination by using exact times, dates, what others looked like. Create relevant details and visual images. * Conflict is at the heart of any good story. Describe a struggle. People understand struggles between opposing people or forces as well as in themselves. * Create dialogue for your characters. Use specific quotations and different voices so the audience feels they are there, eavesdropping on the conversation.
Creating a Story
* Opening: A story is anchored in time and space. For example: "Last night I was describing this workshop to my spouse and..." * Body: Build your story with significant personal events, vivid details and clearly drawn characters. Add depth and dramatic impact with conflict, archetypes, vulnerability and dialogue. Make sure to include a common reference point. Connect with your audience and build trust. * Conclusion: End strongly and segue to a relevant point. Build a transitional bridge from your story back to a pertinent topic in your presentation.
Practice
Time yourself telling the story you decide to use. Preferably, tell it to another person. If no one is available, tell it to the furniture in the room or try it out in front of a mirror.
Now practice getting into and out of the story more quickly. Edit: trim unnecessary details and fill in any gaps you noticed while telling the story. On your second telling, try to cut in half the time it takes to tell the story. If your story still drags, keep cutting and polishing, until it flows.
Example
This is one example of the power of stories and storytelling. I read this story in an article titled, Telling Tales: The art of corporate storytelling in the October 2007 issue of The Costco Connection, a magazine put out by Costco as a way of connecting with their customers.
Medtronic started as a home hobby and has grown into a worldwide creator and manufacturer of medical technology. Medtronic, based in Minneapolis, has embraced storytelling as a key ingredient of its success. Every December, the company throws a holiday party for its employees and invites six patients and their physicians to attend and share how they were helped by Medtronic's products.
One patient who shared his story was Gary Prazac, who was diagnosed with Parkinsons' disease at age 49. Prazac emotionally recounted how the disease turned him into an "old man, shuffling along with a cane and wearing the ‘Parkinson's mask'", a deadpan facial expression.
Prazac explained how he had become stuck at an airport when he was unable to move from his chair, forcing him to miss his plane. Huge doses of medication helped control the tremors but caused other unwelcome symptoms. This went on for years, until his doctor suggested a new therapy involving the implantation of a deep-brain-stimulation device made by Medtronic. Prazac said, "The surgery reversed at least 10 years of symptoms. It was literally a miracle. Medtronic gave me my smile back."
Medtronic's Chairman and CEO, Art Collins, attributes much of the company's success to the stories told at the holiday events, calling it "the day we come together as a family joined by a great and enduring mission; serving others."
*Pondy, L.R. et al., Organization Symbolism
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author:
The Henderson Group trains and coaches business professionals in the art of communication and presentation through our experiential methodology. Since 1990, The Henderson Group has helped Fortune 500 companies worldwide improve employee productivity and business results through the development of communication skills. You can find us online at SpeakFearlessly.net and HendersonGroup.com or Attend A Workshop
How to Make your Book Title a “promise"
Got a Non-Fiction Book? Tell Your Reader What’s In It for Them!
(Adapted from The Well-Fed Self-Publisher: How to Turn One Book into a Full-Time Living, by Peter Bowerman. Fanove, 2007. www.wellfedsp.com).
NOTE: the following suggestions apply to non-fiction works.
Some time back, I got an email from an ebook author who wanted a blurb for his upcoming book on writing. I couldn’t help but notice that his title seemed a bit weak. The book was about getting past the obstacles that most fiction writers encounter on the way to finishing their books. The original title was:
Writing Your Novel: A Quick and Easy Guide to Getting It Done
Yawn. It needed to be more dynamic. Here’s what I came up with:
UNSTUCK! Kick Down Those Roadblocks and Finish Your Novel Now!
Now, someone can look at the title and know instantly what the book is about and the benefits they’ll get from reading it.
If you’re writing non-fiction, your title and subtitle are as crucially important as a great-looking cover. And in many respects, a title is similar to a corporate tagline, something I have a good bit of experience through my commercial writing career. Let’s look at some famous taglines:
GE. We bring good things to life.
Delta. We’re ready when you are.
Avis. We try harder.
Burger King. Have it your way.
Virginia is for lovers.
What do they all have in common? They’re promises. They tell you what you can count on. Same with a brand. Think Dove soap. Tiffany’s. Volvo. IBM. Any doubt as to the promise in those brands? Keep this in mind as you create your book title.
Promise, Then Elaborate
When I created my title, I kept in mind the promise, and I say I could have done a lot worse than The Well-Fed Writer (a detailed how-to guide on starting a “commercial” writing business – writing for corporations, where the income potential money was FAR greater than typical “freelance writing”).
I then used the subtitle to reinforce, clarify, elaborate on the promise of the title. I went with: Financial Self-Sufficiency as a Freelance Writer in Six Months or Less – an additional promise in its own right. Don’t make readers wonder what your book is about; have them “get it” right away from the title and subtitle. A good rule of thumb on titles vs. subtitles? If the title you come up with sounds more explanatory than catchy (and is more than 4-5 words, max), it’s probably a better subtitle.
It all comes down to benefits. Good title/subtitle combos tell readers what’s in it for them, why they should bother picking up the book in the first place.
Another Case Study
In another case, I was hired to mentor a new self-publishing author, an ad industry veteran who’d written book on creativity. While he wanted to tap my expertise on a variety of nuts and bolts issues, in his mind, his cover artwork (and photography) was paid for and nailed down, along with, of course, his title, too:
The Field Guide to Creativity:
One Path And 101 Pointers For Discovering Fresh Ideas
Well, when I told him his title needed work, he wasn’t exactly overjoyed. I must confess, I felt a bit like the parent telling his daughter that, despite the fact that the wedding is two weeks away, invitations sent, and caterer, florist, photographer and band paid for, I thought her intended betrothed is a loser and it’s not too late to call it off. Here was a book – a really good, interesting, valuable and yes, creative book – purporting to help people be more creative, and its title simply wasn’t.
He took my advice, revisited the idea, he and I and a bunch of his friends (via email) brainstormed a bunch of jazzier titles, and here’s what he ended up with:
ZING! Five Steps & 101 Tips for Creativity on Command
Not a promise in a strict sense, but in way, the feeling it evoked was.
Speaking of Creativity…
I had a client recently, a long-time elementary school art teacher, who’d hired me for general consult on her unfolding self-publishing process. She’d created a wonderful book – an artistic resource (“idea book”) for young people designed to spur their unique creative expression through a host of fun, unusual artistic techniques as well as all the necessary supply lists and “how-to.” Early on, she’d named this seven-year labor of love:
The Color Book: A Book of Ideas to Inspire Young Artists
Her rationale: color and choice of color were fundamental to a child’s artistic development (and the book was so colorful). I questioned the main title, even though she hadn’t asked me to critique it, and in fact, considered it set in stone.
My thinking? For starters, her title made sense to her, given what she knew about the concept, none of which was self-evident to a buyer. Just as importantly, it was potentially confusing; it could mean a lot of things (i.e. color swatches, history of color, etc.). Finally, it didn’t explain what the book was and didn’t begin to really do justice to the book’s mission. I suggested something I felt was more descriptive of that mission:
Art Sparks! A Creative Adventure to Inspire Young Artists
Again, a promise. And while she liked it, she initially resisted it, more out of attachment and inertia. But, she quickly realized that she needed to think of her buyer, and came to love it as she saw that it truly captured her heartfelt mission for the book.
Know what the #1 best-selling trade paperback of 2002 was, according to Publishers Weekly? A cookbook! And one that sold 1.8 million copies. Title: The Fix-It and Forget-It? Cookbook: Feasting With Your Slow Cooker. (Authors: Dawn J. Ranck and Phyllis Pellman Good). Now is that a promise or what?
*************
Can’t land a publisher? Do it yourself, and make a living from it! Check out a free report on self-publishing at www.wellfedsp.com, home of author Peter Bowerman’s award-winning 2007 release, The Well-Fed Self-Publisher: How to Turn One Book into a Full-Time Living.
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Peter Bowerman
Bowerman is the self-published author of The Well-Fed Writer titles (www.wellfedwriter.com), multiple-award winning selections of Book-of-the-Month Club. Over 50,000 copies of his first two books in print have earned him a full-time living for over five years.
(Adapted from The Well-Fed Self-Publisher: How to Turn One Book into a Full-Time Living, by Peter Bowerman. Fanove, 2007. www.wellfedsp.com).
NOTE: the following suggestions apply to non-fiction works.
Some time back, I got an email from an ebook author who wanted a blurb for his upcoming book on writing. I couldn’t help but notice that his title seemed a bit weak. The book was about getting past the obstacles that most fiction writers encounter on the way to finishing their books. The original title was:
Writing Your Novel: A Quick and Easy Guide to Getting It Done
Yawn. It needed to be more dynamic. Here’s what I came up with:
UNSTUCK! Kick Down Those Roadblocks and Finish Your Novel Now!
Now, someone can look at the title and know instantly what the book is about and the benefits they’ll get from reading it.
If you’re writing non-fiction, your title and subtitle are as crucially important as a great-looking cover. And in many respects, a title is similar to a corporate tagline, something I have a good bit of experience through my commercial writing career. Let’s look at some famous taglines:
GE. We bring good things to life.
Delta. We’re ready when you are.
Avis. We try harder.
Burger King. Have it your way.
Virginia is for lovers.
What do they all have in common? They’re promises. They tell you what you can count on. Same with a brand. Think Dove soap. Tiffany’s. Volvo. IBM. Any doubt as to the promise in those brands? Keep this in mind as you create your book title.
Promise, Then Elaborate
When I created my title, I kept in mind the promise, and I say I could have done a lot worse than The Well-Fed Writer (a detailed how-to guide on starting a “commercial” writing business – writing for corporations, where the income potential money was FAR greater than typical “freelance writing”).
I then used the subtitle to reinforce, clarify, elaborate on the promise of the title. I went with: Financial Self-Sufficiency as a Freelance Writer in Six Months or Less – an additional promise in its own right. Don’t make readers wonder what your book is about; have them “get it” right away from the title and subtitle. A good rule of thumb on titles vs. subtitles? If the title you come up with sounds more explanatory than catchy (and is more than 4-5 words, max), it’s probably a better subtitle.
It all comes down to benefits. Good title/subtitle combos tell readers what’s in it for them, why they should bother picking up the book in the first place.
Another Case Study
In another case, I was hired to mentor a new self-publishing author, an ad industry veteran who’d written book on creativity. While he wanted to tap my expertise on a variety of nuts and bolts issues, in his mind, his cover artwork (and photography) was paid for and nailed down, along with, of course, his title, too:
The Field Guide to Creativity:
One Path And 101 Pointers For Discovering Fresh Ideas
Well, when I told him his title needed work, he wasn’t exactly overjoyed. I must confess, I felt a bit like the parent telling his daughter that, despite the fact that the wedding is two weeks away, invitations sent, and caterer, florist, photographer and band paid for, I thought her intended betrothed is a loser and it’s not too late to call it off. Here was a book – a really good, interesting, valuable and yes, creative book – purporting to help people be more creative, and its title simply wasn’t.
He took my advice, revisited the idea, he and I and a bunch of his friends (via email) brainstormed a bunch of jazzier titles, and here’s what he ended up with:
ZING! Five Steps & 101 Tips for Creativity on Command
Not a promise in a strict sense, but in way, the feeling it evoked was.
Speaking of Creativity…
I had a client recently, a long-time elementary school art teacher, who’d hired me for general consult on her unfolding self-publishing process. She’d created a wonderful book – an artistic resource (“idea book”) for young people designed to spur their unique creative expression through a host of fun, unusual artistic techniques as well as all the necessary supply lists and “how-to.” Early on, she’d named this seven-year labor of love:
The Color Book: A Book of Ideas to Inspire Young Artists
Her rationale: color and choice of color were fundamental to a child’s artistic development (and the book was so colorful). I questioned the main title, even though she hadn’t asked me to critique it, and in fact, considered it set in stone.
My thinking? For starters, her title made sense to her, given what she knew about the concept, none of which was self-evident to a buyer. Just as importantly, it was potentially confusing; it could mean a lot of things (i.e. color swatches, history of color, etc.). Finally, it didn’t explain what the book was and didn’t begin to really do justice to the book’s mission. I suggested something I felt was more descriptive of that mission:
Art Sparks! A Creative Adventure to Inspire Young Artists
Again, a promise. And while she liked it, she initially resisted it, more out of attachment and inertia. But, she quickly realized that she needed to think of her buyer, and came to love it as she saw that it truly captured her heartfelt mission for the book.
Know what the #1 best-selling trade paperback of 2002 was, according to Publishers Weekly? A cookbook! And one that sold 1.8 million copies. Title: The Fix-It and Forget-It? Cookbook: Feasting With Your Slow Cooker. (Authors: Dawn J. Ranck and Phyllis Pellman Good). Now is that a promise or what?
*************
Can’t land a publisher? Do it yourself, and make a living from it! Check out a free report on self-publishing at www.wellfedsp.com, home of author Peter Bowerman’s award-winning 2007 release, The Well-Fed Self-Publisher: How to Turn One Book into a Full-Time Living.
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Peter Bowerman
Bowerman is the self-published author of The Well-Fed Writer titles (www.wellfedwriter.com), multiple-award winning selections of Book-of-the-Month Club. Over 50,000 copies of his first two books in print have earned him a full-time living for over five years.
A Quick Start Guide To Writing Your Memoir
I've learned that when a person starts thinking about telling their life story, they tend to overthink it. They get caught up in worrying about things such as what others will think and who would publish it. The whole thought process results in paralysis so they can't even figure out how to get started. But if you do your thinking in a more focused way, and then follow it up with specific actions, you'll have your completed pages done before you know it! Here's how to get going.
Who is the Book For?
Before sitting down at your desk, decide who you are writing for. Are you writing for a wider audience (the general public)? Are you writing for your children and grandchildren? Answering this question will take many concerns off your plate from the very beginning. For instance, if you are writing only for family members, your writing style can be more intimate and informal, almost as though you are writing them a letter. You also wouldn't have to worry about getting an agent or attracting a publishing house because you know you'll either print the book yourself or have a self-publishing company produce a handful of finished books for you.
If you are writing for a wider audience you will have much more to deliver in terms of story, action and writing style. But let's keep this on the back burner for now and only think in terms of one thing: you know you have to write well. The rest you can worry about when the book is done.
What Story or Stories Do You Want to Tell?
You don't have to do the David Copperfield thing and go all the way back to "I am born." Contrary to popular belief, real life doesn't always make for interesting writing. So instead of going the James Frey route and embellishing, as he did with "A Million Little Pieces" (and you see where that got him!), focus instead on the great stories that have happened to you. I've heard from many people who desire to tell the story of their World War II experiences. They can do whole books just on that subject. There's no need to do more unless you have more to say.
Joan Didion's recent memoir, "The Year of Magical Thinking", is all about her grieving after the death of her husband, John Gregory Dunne. It is a beautiful example of what can be done by examining just a small portion of your life. Likewise, Maya Angelou covered her life experiences in more than one book. So you don't have to write down everything in one place. What story are your burning to tell right now? Start there!
Skip the Writing Part--For Now
This may seem counter-intuitive to your intent to write a book, but if putting down that first word or sentence is too hard, you may find it easier to talk your book out of you first. All you have to do is give yourself a rough outline of what you want to talk about and then speak your stories into a recording device. You probably tell these stories anyway more often than you realize, which is probably why people say, "You should write that down". This will feel natural for you, especially if you enlist a friend or family member to interview you. That makes it easier than just lecturing into the air, plus the person you choose can help you to dig out certain details that you either have forgotten or just didn't think to bring out. For instance, a curious interviewer might ask "Who was with you when you stormed that beach in France?" or "What kind of car were you driving when you first saw Mom walking down the street?" or "What were you wearing when you met Martin Luther King Jr.?"
Even Mitch Albom did this. Even though I had read "Tuesdays with Morrie", it didn't hit me until I saw the television movie based on the book that he had recorded Morrie during each visit. He didn't have to work from notes or memory. I'm sure the tone of Morrie's voice was a constant inspiration for Mr. Albom to keep going and finish the book. I'm sure your family would love to have such a recording of you. The recording could be a gift itself, even if you never turned it into a book. But this is about creating a book so...
Transcribe for an Instant Rough Draft
Have a friend or family member or hire someone to to take the words from your recording and put them on paper. Most transcription services can do this fairly quickly, depending on the length of the work. I use eTranscription Solutions (http://www.etranscriptionsolutions.org) to transcribe my seminars and they are fast and accurate. The beauty of this is that once the transcript is done, you'll suddenly have a rough draft of your book in your hands. No more blank pages to contend with!
Shape Your Book
Now this part should be really fun. Once you have your rough draft, you can begin to shape your story like an artist with clay. Again, beware the impulse to embellish, but try to give things a beginning, a middle and an end. Keep your audience in mind. Remember, your writing doesn't have to be fancy. You just want to make sure you're being compelling, and that you're getting your message across. If you have any doubt about the way something is written, read it out loud. That way you'll be able to hear whether a phrase is awkward, if your sentences are too long or if you have fragments instead of complete sentences.
Finish It!
The best way to ensure that you'll complete your project is to set a deadline for yourself and honor it. Otherwise you may let it linger for months or years, working on it only a little at a time. Maybe you could tie your deadline to a family event such as a holiday or a reunion. Wouldn't that be the perfect place to present your completed memoir? If you seek to get your book published traditionally instead of doing it yourself, you may not have control over when you'll have a finished book in your hands, but don't let that stop you. Go as far as you can and present that work, even if it's a stack of photocopied pages or a box of cassette tapes to your loved ones. They will appreciate the gift--and your effort--for years to come.
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Sophfronia Scott -
Author and Writing Coach Sophfronia Scott is "The Book Sistah" TM. Get her FREE REPORT, "The 5 Big Mistakes Most Writers Make When Trying to Get Published" and her FREE online writing and publishing tips at www.TheBookSistah.com
Who is the Book For?
Before sitting down at your desk, decide who you are writing for. Are you writing for a wider audience (the general public)? Are you writing for your children and grandchildren? Answering this question will take many concerns off your plate from the very beginning. For instance, if you are writing only for family members, your writing style can be more intimate and informal, almost as though you are writing them a letter. You also wouldn't have to worry about getting an agent or attracting a publishing house because you know you'll either print the book yourself or have a self-publishing company produce a handful of finished books for you.
If you are writing for a wider audience you will have much more to deliver in terms of story, action and writing style. But let's keep this on the back burner for now and only think in terms of one thing: you know you have to write well. The rest you can worry about when the book is done.
What Story or Stories Do You Want to Tell?
You don't have to do the David Copperfield thing and go all the way back to "I am born." Contrary to popular belief, real life doesn't always make for interesting writing. So instead of going the James Frey route and embellishing, as he did with "A Million Little Pieces" (and you see where that got him!), focus instead on the great stories that have happened to you. I've heard from many people who desire to tell the story of their World War II experiences. They can do whole books just on that subject. There's no need to do more unless you have more to say.
Joan Didion's recent memoir, "The Year of Magical Thinking", is all about her grieving after the death of her husband, John Gregory Dunne. It is a beautiful example of what can be done by examining just a small portion of your life. Likewise, Maya Angelou covered her life experiences in more than one book. So you don't have to write down everything in one place. What story are your burning to tell right now? Start there!
Skip the Writing Part--For Now
This may seem counter-intuitive to your intent to write a book, but if putting down that first word or sentence is too hard, you may find it easier to talk your book out of you first. All you have to do is give yourself a rough outline of what you want to talk about and then speak your stories into a recording device. You probably tell these stories anyway more often than you realize, which is probably why people say, "You should write that down". This will feel natural for you, especially if you enlist a friend or family member to interview you. That makes it easier than just lecturing into the air, plus the person you choose can help you to dig out certain details that you either have forgotten or just didn't think to bring out. For instance, a curious interviewer might ask "Who was with you when you stormed that beach in France?" or "What kind of car were you driving when you first saw Mom walking down the street?" or "What were you wearing when you met Martin Luther King Jr.?"
Even Mitch Albom did this. Even though I had read "Tuesdays with Morrie", it didn't hit me until I saw the television movie based on the book that he had recorded Morrie during each visit. He didn't have to work from notes or memory. I'm sure the tone of Morrie's voice was a constant inspiration for Mr. Albom to keep going and finish the book. I'm sure your family would love to have such a recording of you. The recording could be a gift itself, even if you never turned it into a book. But this is about creating a book so...
Transcribe for an Instant Rough Draft
Have a friend or family member or hire someone to to take the words from your recording and put them on paper. Most transcription services can do this fairly quickly, depending on the length of the work. I use eTranscription Solutions (http://www.etranscriptionsolutions.org) to transcribe my seminars and they are fast and accurate. The beauty of this is that once the transcript is done, you'll suddenly have a rough draft of your book in your hands. No more blank pages to contend with!
Shape Your Book
Now this part should be really fun. Once you have your rough draft, you can begin to shape your story like an artist with clay. Again, beware the impulse to embellish, but try to give things a beginning, a middle and an end. Keep your audience in mind. Remember, your writing doesn't have to be fancy. You just want to make sure you're being compelling, and that you're getting your message across. If you have any doubt about the way something is written, read it out loud. That way you'll be able to hear whether a phrase is awkward, if your sentences are too long or if you have fragments instead of complete sentences.
Finish It!
The best way to ensure that you'll complete your project is to set a deadline for yourself and honor it. Otherwise you may let it linger for months or years, working on it only a little at a time. Maybe you could tie your deadline to a family event such as a holiday or a reunion. Wouldn't that be the perfect place to present your completed memoir? If you seek to get your book published traditionally instead of doing it yourself, you may not have control over when you'll have a finished book in your hands, but don't let that stop you. Go as far as you can and present that work, even if it's a stack of photocopied pages or a box of cassette tapes to your loved ones. They will appreciate the gift--and your effort--for years to come.
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Sophfronia Scott -
Author and Writing Coach Sophfronia Scott is "The Book Sistah" TM. Get her FREE REPORT, "The 5 Big Mistakes Most Writers Make When Trying to Get Published" and her FREE online writing and publishing tips at www.TheBookSistah.com
How To Write An Autobiography
Maybe you've had an interesting life, or done some amazing things, or perhaps you just want to write about your life for your own sake and for your family. Whatever your reason, writing an autobiography can be both fun and challenging. The purpose of this article is to explain the process of writing an autobiography using what is commonly known as the "index card method" of writing. If you haven't already done so, you should familiarize yourself with this method of writing... it is one of the easiest and most powerful systems of writing in existence!
Collecting For Your Autobiography
The first thing you need to do to be ready to write your autobiography is to start collecting the stories, memories and events that you want to include. The best way to do this will probably be to type small notes into a program like Text Block Author for each event or topic you want included. If you have military or war experience, your collecting might include photos and newspaper clippings from the war. You might also collect favorite songs at various points in your life, letters to and from old friends, and even things like favorite toys, books, or anything else you can think of that will enhance a person's picture of "you". You are basically studying yourself at this stage, so be thorough and complete, and don't be afraid to include things that you are shy or embarrassed about. Some of the best autobiographies are those that reveal things that others didn't previously know about the person. The most difficult thing about writing your autobiography will be getting to where you are able to write about who you are rather than about who you want to be.
Some people might feel pressure to "enhance" their autobiography with things that didn't really happen ... thinking (mistakenly) that they've had a boring life and "people wouldn't want to read this". What I'd say to those people is this: write the truth, and write it well. A well-written story about a boring life will mean more to people in the end than a poorly written story about an exciting life that never really happened. An ordinary person can have an extraordinary autobiography with the right information written in the right manner.
Organizing And Categorizing
How you "categorize" your autobiography will depend in part on what information it contains. For example, if you are writing primarily about your childhood you're going to take a different approach than if you were going to cover your whole life to the present. Let's look at a couple of approaches and how the method of writing in How To Write Almost Anything can be applied to them. There are probably more ways to do it, but I'm only going to talk about two of them here.
The Modular Approach - What I call the modular approach means to treat each part of your life as it's own independent module. These can be broken up by time spans, topics, or defining events. For example I might have a section of my autobiography called "Child's play" detailing my childhood up til about 12 years old. Then, for my life, the next module might be about the difficulties I went through and overcame in Junior High And High School. After that I might talk about some religious and social experiences that overlap with the previous section, but still deserve their own "Module". Then I might have one for "Entrepreneurship" and another for "Family Life". In the example I've given here, I'd be breaking up my life more according to topic than time. Some things (in a time-line sense) would be skipped altogether... especially if they didn't involve a topic that I wanted to cover.
To accomplish the "categorize" stage when using the modular method, you simply need to go through the events and notes that you have collected from your life and start assigning them categories. When everything has a category of some kind associated with it, you can go through those and see which ones fit best together. For me, I might have a category of "Programming" and another one of "Writing", and I might fit both of these in the "Entrepreneurship" module. Whatever you do, be creative and be flexible. Remember you can change and adjust a you go if you need to. Just sort things out into categories, then into "modules", and then order those into an order that makes sense (usually this will be roughly chronological).
Using the modular approach, in the end you should have a number of stand alone modules that don't have to be placed within the context of the rest of the story in order to make sense. This means that one module is not necessarily a continuation of another. It's just a new story about a different topic. There will be some overlapping ... but don't worry about that. Just go with it and see how it turns out in the end. You will probably like the results.
The Chronological Approach - I'm not going to make any effort to hide my bias here. I don't like this way of doing things! The reason I don't care for the "chronological" approach for an autobiography is that, unless you have a really interesting life, it can be painfully boring. If you aren't careful your autobiography will end up reading more like history book. This format is great for information purposes, but really sucks when you just want to enjoy what you're reading. This is my opinion, of course. You may love stories told in order. I guess I just don't think that way. My thinking is scattered. That must be why I like the "index card" method of writing so much, and must be why I created the software to use it.
So how would you use this method of writing if you intend to organize your autobiography in chronological order? I would start by going through all the notes and items I've collected and assign them an age or a period of time. Once you know roughly when everything happened, group everything into spans of time. Break it up around every 10 years or so. Then, within each of these time spans, just arrange and organize your thoughts, notes, experiences and memories into an order that works. Try to find the balance between chronological and good story telling. For example, if you had a horrible event happen when you were 10 years old, but other things that were good happened right afterwards, you might say something like
"By around the age of 10, I was a happy-go-lucky kid. I had found a love for music and writing, and was enjoying every minute of developing my exciting new talents. But on September 15th, 1987, my life was changed forever when..."
Do you see what I did there? I didn't tell the events "in order", because I felt I could achieve a more meaningful effect by telling "the good" first, and then introducing a major "bad" turning point. You can do the same within any given timespan, where it makes sense to do so. Don't get so stuck in chronological order that your life reads like a history book. Oops. There's that bias again. (By the way, the above example is fictional. Nothing traumatic happened in my own life at the age of 10, with perhaps the exception of my first "real" kiss.)
Communicating Your Story
The best advice that I have to give when it comes to the "communicating" stage of writing your autobiography is to keep your writing conversational and informal. Again, a biography runs a big risk of sounding like a history book, and in most cases, that's not what you want to go for (unless you are writing a history book). So keep it simple, concise, and casual. One way to think of it would be like if you were confiding in a close friend. Just talk, share, and be grateful that someone is listening.
Other than that, all there is to do at this point is to follow your outline that you organized in the previous step and just write! If you have done the first two steps well, this stage will be easy. You just follow the outline, and write the story of your life!
Many people dream of writing an autobiography someday. I hope that this article will help make that dream a reality for you.
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Brian Vogt
To learn more about this method of writing and get the software designed for it, visit the author's website: How To Write Better And Faster.
Collecting For Your Autobiography
The first thing you need to do to be ready to write your autobiography is to start collecting the stories, memories and events that you want to include. The best way to do this will probably be to type small notes into a program like Text Block Author for each event or topic you want included. If you have military or war experience, your collecting might include photos and newspaper clippings from the war. You might also collect favorite songs at various points in your life, letters to and from old friends, and even things like favorite toys, books, or anything else you can think of that will enhance a person's picture of "you". You are basically studying yourself at this stage, so be thorough and complete, and don't be afraid to include things that you are shy or embarrassed about. Some of the best autobiographies are those that reveal things that others didn't previously know about the person. The most difficult thing about writing your autobiography will be getting to where you are able to write about who you are rather than about who you want to be.
Some people might feel pressure to "enhance" their autobiography with things that didn't really happen ... thinking (mistakenly) that they've had a boring life and "people wouldn't want to read this". What I'd say to those people is this: write the truth, and write it well. A well-written story about a boring life will mean more to people in the end than a poorly written story about an exciting life that never really happened. An ordinary person can have an extraordinary autobiography with the right information written in the right manner.
Organizing And Categorizing
How you "categorize" your autobiography will depend in part on what information it contains. For example, if you are writing primarily about your childhood you're going to take a different approach than if you were going to cover your whole life to the present. Let's look at a couple of approaches and how the method of writing in How To Write Almost Anything can be applied to them. There are probably more ways to do it, but I'm only going to talk about two of them here.
The Modular Approach - What I call the modular approach means to treat each part of your life as it's own independent module. These can be broken up by time spans, topics, or defining events. For example I might have a section of my autobiography called "Child's play" detailing my childhood up til about 12 years old. Then, for my life, the next module might be about the difficulties I went through and overcame in Junior High And High School. After that I might talk about some religious and social experiences that overlap with the previous section, but still deserve their own "Module". Then I might have one for "Entrepreneurship" and another for "Family Life". In the example I've given here, I'd be breaking up my life more according to topic than time. Some things (in a time-line sense) would be skipped altogether... especially if they didn't involve a topic that I wanted to cover.
To accomplish the "categorize" stage when using the modular method, you simply need to go through the events and notes that you have collected from your life and start assigning them categories. When everything has a category of some kind associated with it, you can go through those and see which ones fit best together. For me, I might have a category of "Programming" and another one of "Writing", and I might fit both of these in the "Entrepreneurship" module. Whatever you do, be creative and be flexible. Remember you can change and adjust a you go if you need to. Just sort things out into categories, then into "modules", and then order those into an order that makes sense (usually this will be roughly chronological).
Using the modular approach, in the end you should have a number of stand alone modules that don't have to be placed within the context of the rest of the story in order to make sense. This means that one module is not necessarily a continuation of another. It's just a new story about a different topic. There will be some overlapping ... but don't worry about that. Just go with it and see how it turns out in the end. You will probably like the results.
The Chronological Approach - I'm not going to make any effort to hide my bias here. I don't like this way of doing things! The reason I don't care for the "chronological" approach for an autobiography is that, unless you have a really interesting life, it can be painfully boring. If you aren't careful your autobiography will end up reading more like history book. This format is great for information purposes, but really sucks when you just want to enjoy what you're reading. This is my opinion, of course. You may love stories told in order. I guess I just don't think that way. My thinking is scattered. That must be why I like the "index card" method of writing so much, and must be why I created the software to use it.
So how would you use this method of writing if you intend to organize your autobiography in chronological order? I would start by going through all the notes and items I've collected and assign them an age or a period of time. Once you know roughly when everything happened, group everything into spans of time. Break it up around every 10 years or so. Then, within each of these time spans, just arrange and organize your thoughts, notes, experiences and memories into an order that works. Try to find the balance between chronological and good story telling. For example, if you had a horrible event happen when you were 10 years old, but other things that were good happened right afterwards, you might say something like
"By around the age of 10, I was a happy-go-lucky kid. I had found a love for music and writing, and was enjoying every minute of developing my exciting new talents. But on September 15th, 1987, my life was changed forever when..."
Do you see what I did there? I didn't tell the events "in order", because I felt I could achieve a more meaningful effect by telling "the good" first, and then introducing a major "bad" turning point. You can do the same within any given timespan, where it makes sense to do so. Don't get so stuck in chronological order that your life reads like a history book. Oops. There's that bias again. (By the way, the above example is fictional. Nothing traumatic happened in my own life at the age of 10, with perhaps the exception of my first "real" kiss.)
Communicating Your Story
The best advice that I have to give when it comes to the "communicating" stage of writing your autobiography is to keep your writing conversational and informal. Again, a biography runs a big risk of sounding like a history book, and in most cases, that's not what you want to go for (unless you are writing a history book). So keep it simple, concise, and casual. One way to think of it would be like if you were confiding in a close friend. Just talk, share, and be grateful that someone is listening.
Other than that, all there is to do at this point is to follow your outline that you organized in the previous step and just write! If you have done the first two steps well, this stage will be easy. You just follow the outline, and write the story of your life!
Many people dream of writing an autobiography someday. I hope that this article will help make that dream a reality for you.
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Brian Vogt
To learn more about this method of writing and get the software designed for it, visit the author's website: How To Write Better And Faster.
Writing Nonfiction
All of us are authors, and all of us have a book already written within us that needs to come out.
I believe that fiction is the easiest to write because none of what you write can, or needs to be verified and you are only limited by your imagination. On the other hand nonfiction requires verification of facts and the book usually has references to the material that you have used. These facts can come from the documentation of others or your own. But the material is usually taken as truth or fact and supported by the documents you have used.
Then there is the Grey area that I write about… Philosophy! Philosophy always appears as truth and it is always controversial because in truth, truth is an illusion. My truth is not yours, and yours is not someone else's. Philosophy can always be argued from one's point of view and it is nonfiction from that observation. From the position of the other it may be fantasy or imagination.
In truth, philosophically speaking, fiction and nonfiction are the same, as both come from the imagination and are subject to one's interpretation and the ability to manifest one's thoughts into physical symbols that are observable by others.
The wonderful thing about fiction is that the events become probabilities in physical form at some level of consciousness and are nonfiction. If I think of a lying under a palm tree on a white sandy beach on a tropical ocean one early sunny morning, that thought becomes your thought and the probability exists that either one of us can experience it. It becomes a probability and only then needs to be experienced. All thoughts are the beginnings of any probability whether it is a sandy beach or Aliens attacking the earth.
The distinction between fiction and nonfiction is determined by our ability to allow our imaginations to accept them.
The Bible and other Holy texts are considered to be nonfiction, and yet they are the texts that are the least likely to be verified. The pages in these texts where written by many different authors, sometimes hundreds of years after the facts, if they did in fact occur, and the stories were selected for inclusion by people and organizations with an agenda. Many of the stories in the Bible were created to demonstrate aspects of morality and social behavior. Many stories have been left out deliberately.
We generally accept these books as historical facts because we were told to, even though critical thinking and reason suggests otherwise. Facts, truth and imagination have been blended into foggy images that transcend humanities ability to distinguish the difference, fueled by fear and ignorance. What is fiction, what is not?
We look to an imaginary future and go back into the past to create it. Or we go back into the past to create a future book. The book the waits within you, is the future waiting to be created, it is already present in the moment and although it is nonfiction, it will be judged by others in the future as either.
Humanity has agreed at some level of consciousness to accept things as truth, or "nonfiction," if it is within the realm of possibility or if there is a strong human desire, want or need to believe it.
We as a people had a strong desire to fly to the moon and have done it, (maybe). We as a people have strong desires to create new technology and we do it, and we believe in technology because we can see it working. These areas are not that Grey, because we want to believe. Predictions that we have made hundreds or thousands of years ago are now observable in our experience and easy to accept. Most believe that technology can achieve anything, from creating a sailing ship that moves past the abyss waiting at the edge of the earth, to the space ship that flies through it.
It is the same imagination that creates physical objects or technology, which creates philosophy about who and what we are.
There is a strong desire within humanity, or need to believe and accept that there is more to us than what we can see, taste, smell, feel or hear. We have moved away from our ability to experience the soul and the mind as other parts of ourselves. We consider these aspects of self as fictional or beyond reach and best left to the imagination of philosophers, priests and other self appointed experts. Most of us experience these aspects only when we read about them or attend presentations or Sunday services, as they are brought to our attention.
As one moves away from the philosophy of others and accepts their own truth as real and valid, then we are better able to accept all experiences, philosophies, and truths as truth. All probabilities and possibilities are valid and experienced at some level of consciousness. All fiction is nonfiction in the greater truth, and they are simply human or physical conventions.
I write my Nonfiction, Fictional articles early Sunday morning before I go for breakfast. In the course of the two hours that it takes me to write a 1600 word article like this, I have my shower, get dressed, wash the dishes, take out the garbage and several other chores.
I do not give any thought to what I write about, and it just flows out of me naturally. When I sit down to the keyboard and monitor, my mind is blank and the harder I try to write something, the less the results. Most often I do not know what I am going to write about before I start. I close my eyes for a few moments and try not to think about anything.
I accepted long ago that what I have to say or write about is valid, it has purpose and meaning. No matter how farfetched the words or thought, I try not to interfere and just let it come out. The fear of being crazy, stupid or uninformed left me long ago once I allowed the words to come out. This article is philosophical (nonfiction) but it comes from a fictional thought process that I used to think was mine, it is not!
I encourage all those that come to me for guidance to just sit down and let it all out, no matter how outrageous, how unintelligent or gifted it may seem. No one has to read it, it doesn't have to be published, and you can tear it up when you are finished. By sitting down and starting to write, you will develop a process that works for you, you will be totally amazed at what you have locked inside. When I do read some of my stuff, I wonder, "Wow," was that me, that's not bad! Did I write that?
If you have visited my web site at klienwachter.com and read my articles you will remember that I have said many times I write for myself first and that is my truth. I do not have a need for others to read my words. I have however come to terms with my ego that wishes to be recognized as an author. I speak from the spiritual part of myself that is not physical and I agreed with my ego to allow it the freedom to publish and print these articles. We have made peace and the ego understands that recognition my not come and that it is a probability that may or may not be experienced. On this we agree.
Spirit makes itself known or physically experienced through the words that are recorded for the benefit of the ego.
You have something to say, and your thoughts need to be expressed in the physical world and it is done in an infinite number of ways. Writing is just one way. But do not back down because you believe your writing is not valid or important. Also realize that it may not be accepted by others and know that it doesn't really matter.
Write for yourself first and set your imagination free. Nonfiction is fiction finding expression and recognition in the physical world. It has no meaning except for the meaning given it by those who read the words.
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Sukhjeet
www.allfreereports.com
I believe that fiction is the easiest to write because none of what you write can, or needs to be verified and you are only limited by your imagination. On the other hand nonfiction requires verification of facts and the book usually has references to the material that you have used. These facts can come from the documentation of others or your own. But the material is usually taken as truth or fact and supported by the documents you have used.
Then there is the Grey area that I write about… Philosophy! Philosophy always appears as truth and it is always controversial because in truth, truth is an illusion. My truth is not yours, and yours is not someone else's. Philosophy can always be argued from one's point of view and it is nonfiction from that observation. From the position of the other it may be fantasy or imagination.
In truth, philosophically speaking, fiction and nonfiction are the same, as both come from the imagination and are subject to one's interpretation and the ability to manifest one's thoughts into physical symbols that are observable by others.
The wonderful thing about fiction is that the events become probabilities in physical form at some level of consciousness and are nonfiction. If I think of a lying under a palm tree on a white sandy beach on a tropical ocean one early sunny morning, that thought becomes your thought and the probability exists that either one of us can experience it. It becomes a probability and only then needs to be experienced. All thoughts are the beginnings of any probability whether it is a sandy beach or Aliens attacking the earth.
The distinction between fiction and nonfiction is determined by our ability to allow our imaginations to accept them.
The Bible and other Holy texts are considered to be nonfiction, and yet they are the texts that are the least likely to be verified. The pages in these texts where written by many different authors, sometimes hundreds of years after the facts, if they did in fact occur, and the stories were selected for inclusion by people and organizations with an agenda. Many of the stories in the Bible were created to demonstrate aspects of morality and social behavior. Many stories have been left out deliberately.
We generally accept these books as historical facts because we were told to, even though critical thinking and reason suggests otherwise. Facts, truth and imagination have been blended into foggy images that transcend humanities ability to distinguish the difference, fueled by fear and ignorance. What is fiction, what is not?
We look to an imaginary future and go back into the past to create it. Or we go back into the past to create a future book. The book the waits within you, is the future waiting to be created, it is already present in the moment and although it is nonfiction, it will be judged by others in the future as either.
Humanity has agreed at some level of consciousness to accept things as truth, or "nonfiction," if it is within the realm of possibility or if there is a strong human desire, want or need to believe it.
We as a people had a strong desire to fly to the moon and have done it, (maybe). We as a people have strong desires to create new technology and we do it, and we believe in technology because we can see it working. These areas are not that Grey, because we want to believe. Predictions that we have made hundreds or thousands of years ago are now observable in our experience and easy to accept. Most believe that technology can achieve anything, from creating a sailing ship that moves past the abyss waiting at the edge of the earth, to the space ship that flies through it.
It is the same imagination that creates physical objects or technology, which creates philosophy about who and what we are.
There is a strong desire within humanity, or need to believe and accept that there is more to us than what we can see, taste, smell, feel or hear. We have moved away from our ability to experience the soul and the mind as other parts of ourselves. We consider these aspects of self as fictional or beyond reach and best left to the imagination of philosophers, priests and other self appointed experts. Most of us experience these aspects only when we read about them or attend presentations or Sunday services, as they are brought to our attention.
As one moves away from the philosophy of others and accepts their own truth as real and valid, then we are better able to accept all experiences, philosophies, and truths as truth. All probabilities and possibilities are valid and experienced at some level of consciousness. All fiction is nonfiction in the greater truth, and they are simply human or physical conventions.
I write my Nonfiction, Fictional articles early Sunday morning before I go for breakfast. In the course of the two hours that it takes me to write a 1600 word article like this, I have my shower, get dressed, wash the dishes, take out the garbage and several other chores.
I do not give any thought to what I write about, and it just flows out of me naturally. When I sit down to the keyboard and monitor, my mind is blank and the harder I try to write something, the less the results. Most often I do not know what I am going to write about before I start. I close my eyes for a few moments and try not to think about anything.
I accepted long ago that what I have to say or write about is valid, it has purpose and meaning. No matter how farfetched the words or thought, I try not to interfere and just let it come out. The fear of being crazy, stupid or uninformed left me long ago once I allowed the words to come out. This article is philosophical (nonfiction) but it comes from a fictional thought process that I used to think was mine, it is not!
I encourage all those that come to me for guidance to just sit down and let it all out, no matter how outrageous, how unintelligent or gifted it may seem. No one has to read it, it doesn't have to be published, and you can tear it up when you are finished. By sitting down and starting to write, you will develop a process that works for you, you will be totally amazed at what you have locked inside. When I do read some of my stuff, I wonder, "Wow," was that me, that's not bad! Did I write that?
If you have visited my web site at klienwachter.com and read my articles you will remember that I have said many times I write for myself first and that is my truth. I do not have a need for others to read my words. I have however come to terms with my ego that wishes to be recognized as an author. I speak from the spiritual part of myself that is not physical and I agreed with my ego to allow it the freedom to publish and print these articles. We have made peace and the ego understands that recognition my not come and that it is a probability that may or may not be experienced. On this we agree.
Spirit makes itself known or physically experienced through the words that are recorded for the benefit of the ego.
You have something to say, and your thoughts need to be expressed in the physical world and it is done in an infinite number of ways. Writing is just one way. But do not back down because you believe your writing is not valid or important. Also realize that it may not be accepted by others and know that it doesn't really matter.
Write for yourself first and set your imagination free. Nonfiction is fiction finding expression and recognition in the physical world. It has no meaning except for the meaning given it by those who read the words.
Article Source: http://marketing.article24h.com/category/writing-speaking.html
Author: Sukhjeet
www.allfreereports.com
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