Writing is struggle for me. Not because I don’t know how to, but because of all the details. A sentence is useless by itself, unless you can add other sentences to prove the point made in the previous sentence. Grammar and spelling are detail oriented tasks that drive me nuts.
So, when I received this lovely compliment from Mike Consol, a subscriber on my list, I was elated (and it got me thinking):
“Leesa, I just wanted to let you know that I’m a writing coach and always preach to my students to make their writing more conversational. You excel at that. I continue to receive your emails — even though they’re not relevant to me at this point — because I love your writing style. Just a heads up that you set a grand example for all who struggle to write conversationally.”
I write conversationally because that’s the only way I can get the words out quickly without grabbing my video camera and recording my thoughts.
My best teacher regarding this method was my dad. He could tell the best story. I noticed how he captivated people’s attention because of his ability to tell a story.
My dad made people feel good through laughter and it’s one of the reasons why one of my seven values is joy. I want people to feel good through the words I write.
So, I write as if I’m conversing with my reader. I want people to learn, to feel good and to get my point through the words I write.
This is why I love virtual events. I can facilitate stories and add to them without writing a single word. People “get” me and my personality through my voice (if it’s auditory) and actions (if it’s visual).
Because not every situation calls for video or audio, I may have to write my thoughts and when I do, I tell a story. Otherwise, I get stuck.
Does writing come easily to you? If yes, if no, what are your tips for writing words so you don’t get stuck?
Video and audio are a lot harder for me than writing. Which is funny, because I write the way I (would normally) talk.
I love writing in a conversational style and I like reading it much better as well (as I do your posts). Frankly, if anyone’s writing in a formal style, like a college paper, I check out after the first paragraph. BOOORRRRING!
When I get stuck I try to organize my content into 3 steps, or 3 tips. Somehow when I organize any articles or posts like that, the words flow much easier.
I love your process. I tend to write in steps because it makes it easier for me to organize my thoughts. I didn’t know that doing this is the reason why I can crank out content.
i write what i am feeling then go back and edit it all there is a lot of work but i have to do it keeping positive about it all
Yep, staying positive is the right attitude. It’s when you feel negative about writing that you experience writer’s block.