Write a thank you note . . . either for a tangible, or intangible gift, either for a gift you truly liked, or something you saw as annoying or difficult at first. . . but later saw the value or the good of the gift.
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The subject of death may be uncomfortable or difficult for some. And yet, we are all going to die . . . some time. . . somehow. Here’s a quote from Steve Jobs.
“Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything — all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure — these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.” — Steve Jobs
Note from Marlene: Writing. . . letting others read your writing . . . can make you feel vulnerable, afraid and weak in the knees. And yet, when we pay attention to our desire to write and when we write. . . it’s such a satisfying feeling. So, I say, let go of your fears. . . be brave. . . write and share your writing. Go for it and Just Write. -
Today’s writing prompt . . .
I believe . . .
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Editing is writing, too.
Do you resist editing your writing?
Does the idea of polishing your writing make you feel uncomfortable?
I hear ya!
Do you resist sharing your writing with others?
Does putting your writing “out there” feel like you’re sending your precious child into the (cold, cruel) world?
Yep, I hear that, too.
I used to be very nervous about showing my writing to others. And I still am a bit nervous sometimes.
But then I joined writing groups here and there and I began to share my writing.
When my writing was published — it happened sort of by accident — I didn’t seek to be published. A friend encouraged me (thank you, Pat Tyler) and . . . now I’ve been published in 6 anthologies. And I have to tell ya . . . it’s fun.
Here are my thoughts about the writing process of going from the creativity of a new idea to editing to final product.
When you first write something. . . it can be creative and fun. Then, when the possibility of publishing comes up. . . that precious, personal writing becomes . . . A Product.
And that can be a difficult shift to make. But, here’s the thing. . . editing and polishing your writing for publishing can be fun. Although it’s challenging to select the exact right word or phrase choice, when you have success, it’s a fabulous Eureka moment! It can be fun to shape the writing so others can understand what you are trying to say.
Finally, it can be rewarding to share your writing and receive positive feedback that helps strengthen your writing.
Editing is like pruning a fruit tree or a rose bush. Make a few snips (changes), step back, take a look . . . make a few more changes until the shape gets better and better, and more pleasing. Until, finally, you like the final product and you’re ready to send your precious writing into the world.
Give it a twirl . . . post your writing here, on The Write Spot Blog, and see what happens. I predict good things for you.
Thank you, Kelly and all my friends, for the inspiration for this post.
Just Write!
Photo by Jeff Cullen -
The way I found out about . . .
Start a sentence with “The way I found out about . . . ” and go from there. Write! Just write.
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Write about your favorite food or drink and the last time you had it/them.
Photo of fruit salad, prepared by Meals From The Heart at the French Market in New Orleans. If you go there, go to this Cafe. Seriously good food. The BEST gluten-free crabcakes! -
What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?
— Robert SchullerNote from Marlene: You talk, right? And you think, right? Therefore, you can write. I just know it!
Set yourself up for writing with paper, pen or pencil, or computer and keyboard. Choose a prompt. Set a timer for 12 minutes. And Just Write!
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I facilitate Jumpstart writing workshops in Petaluma, California and here, online, with you. People new to writing have a hard time saying “I’m a writer.” So did I, until my writing teacher, Pat Schneider, made me say it out loud.
And now I’m encouraging you to say it out loud. Come on. I’ll say it, too.
I am a writer.
Again, louder. I AM A WRITER.
There now. . . and if you weren’t able to say it louder, fake it until you make it.
No need to fake your writing. . . Just fake having confidence in your writing.
And now . . . select a prompt and Just Write!
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Today’s prompt: Life is just a . . .
Set your timer for 15 minutes and finish the thought. . .
Life is just a . . .
