The other day I was working with a writer who was struggling to revise a short, online marketing post with a strong call to action. The draft started with a catchy opening line – one that had worked well in another campaign. This specific post needed to communicate several ideas to set up its call […]
Writing
Perennial Seller (A Book Review)
The Short Version: A Welcome Focus on the Long Haul In an age of short attention spans, failing fast, and unicorns, Ryan Holiday has written a refreshing book about creating work that lasts. The advice in Perennial Seller applies to all creative endeavors, from building companies to writing books. It’s both realistic and inspiring. The […]
How to Give Effective Writing Feedback (Part Two)
Delivering Feedback That Makes a Difference Do you feel flattered when someone asks for your feedback on their writing? Don’t get ahead of yourself – your brilliant wisdom and advice may fall on deaf ears if you don’t deliver it in a way that the writer will absorb. The first post in this series talked […]
How to Give Feedback on Other People’s Writing (Part One)
If you identify as a writer, people will ask you for feedback on their writing. These requests come in many forms: A friend’s son asks if you can look at a college essay A work colleague emails you a project report to review A relative shows you a memoir they’re writing Your spouse asks you […]
Enlisting Your Future Self as Your Writing Partner
Writing can be a tough and lonely road – and sticking to long-term writing plans bedevils many aspiring writers. So writers look for external support for their processes, and accountability for their goals. These external supports may include: In-person writing or critique groups Social media groups (Facebook groups are a popular option) Writing coaches But […]
What’s Your Mountain?
“A mountain is just a series of hills.” My father gave me that advice as I hesitated atop a particularly lengthy, mogul-filled ski run. Dad was a wonderful skier and my first ski instructor. He understood that standing atop that slope, I needed perspective and courage, not instruction. A mountain is just a series of […]