I'm not a seasoned author, but I have written three books. I finished the first one 15 years ago (it remains unpublished); the second was a short e-book about storytelling that I published on Kindle a few years ago; the third is a work in progress (I am working on a second draft). But in my capacity as a developmental editor I am currently working with several authors to help them write business … [Read more...] about Why is writing a book so hard? Plus other FAQs about being an author
Written word
Can writing be taught? Plus other FAQs about writing and storytelling
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
Write for the hell of it, and other tips from an old-school journalist
I posted a blog on LinkedIn the other day and Riccardo, one of my connections/friends, commented: “Where do you find time to come up with such amazing pieces of writing?” I immediately thought – great, thanks Riccardo! You’ve given me the topic of my next blog. So where do I find time? If you love writing as much as I do, you will always find time. Author, scriptwriter and creative … [Read more...] about Write for the hell of it, and other tips from an old-school journalist
Strenuous striving for satisfaction vs calm cultivation of contentment
I am fascinated by words and their meanings – both original and contemporary. I like to look at words from all sides and reflect on their impact – on me personally as well as collectively. Two words that have registered with me a few times over the past week are content and its close relative, contentment. The French origin of the English word contentment dates back to the mid-15th century … [Read more...] about Strenuous striving for satisfaction vs calm cultivation of contentment
Why you have to let the white space speak
A few years ago, I read an interview with one of Obama’s speechwriters. I’ve forgotten their name, but I’ll never forget their quote: “You have to let the white space speak.” It’s a quote I often share with participants in the public speaking trainings I facilitate, to illustrate the value of pacing and pausing, and the fact that the space we put around our words is as important as the words … [Read more...] about Why you have to let the white space speak
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?