I was recently made aware of a website called AnswerThePublic, which is essentially a database in which you can enter a key word and receive a report based on every phrase or question that the public are currently asking about that word on search engines such as Google. It’s aimed at marketing people but is also a useful resource for anyone wanting ideas for content. You can only search for a … [Read more...] about Can writing be taught? Plus other FAQs about writing and storytelling
Storytelling
Communication vs expression. What’s the difference and why should you care?
I’ve been in the business of communication for 40 years. During that time, I have often been paid to express myself. This may seem like a strange thing for me to write. But there is a difference between communication and expression – and I’ve been reflecting on what it is and why it's important. If you’re a regular reader of my blogs, you’ll know that I often like to start with the … [Read more...] about Communication vs expression. What’s the difference and why should you care?
How to stop worrying and start living: a tribute to my friend Julia
For most of my adult life - and maybe even before that – I thought of myself as a worrier. Even during periods of my life when things were going smoothly, I used to become suspicious and find something – anything – to worry about. But a couple of things eventually shifted that mindset. One was a quote by the spiritual teacher Ram Dass, who said, “Worrying is like praying for what you don’t … [Read more...] about How to stop worrying and start living: a tribute to my friend Julia
Where did it all begin? And where will it go from here?
I was recently invited by narrative photographer and film-maker Riccardo Sai to discuss origin stories - what they are, how to tell them, and how you can use them to promote your business. You can watch the whole interview below. It has been a while since I tried to tell my own origin story. There's a version on my About Me page - but I think I could improve on it. So I sat down yesterday and … [Read more...] about Where did it all begin? And where will it go from here?
Why I can’t wait to be 80. No, really…
I have recently been writing a series of articles about loneliness. Not because I’m feeling lonely, but because I’ve been commissioned by a client and it’s an important topic that’s affecting a lot of people as the result of lockdown. So loneliness is definitely on my radar at the moment – and often what’s on your radar keeps popping up on your radar. I’m also doing a four-week course called … [Read more...] about Why I can’t wait to be 80. No, really…
A year on, how will the Covid story end?
On this day last year, I was frantically packing clothes into a suitcase, ready to move into my brother’s house. The first lockdown had been announced the night before and there were a lot of rumours flying around, including one that the army were going to police the streets of London (false, as it turns out). The atmosphere was tense and uncertain, and I couldn’t contemplate living on my own … [Read more...] about A year on, how will the Covid story end?