6+1 Traits of Effective Blog Writing

Filed Under Branding, Productivity, Successful Blog, Writing | 13 Comments

Things Kids Know that We Don’t

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I’m writing a writing program again. Writing programs are like other products. They have their individual nuances. They offer particular features and benefits, but all solid writing programs offer certain things in common. The engine of any well-built writing program is the 6+1 Traits of Writing.

If you’re reading this post, it’s unlikely that you encountered the 6+1 Traits as a student. You could find plenty about them on the Web now. Unfortunately, what you found would take the form of lessons and research for teaching school children. Why should school kids and their teachers be the only ones with direct access to the information and the rest of us have to adust our thinking?

I’ve decided a simple action is in order. Read more

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Writing– The 2 PowerQuestions

Filed Under Strategy, Successful Blog, Tips, Writing | 6 Comments

The Second Question

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When I start with that blank page, whether I think about it or I stare into space, two questions are waiting in white letters on the white space. I have to make myself see them and answer them before I will ever be able to write. The questions are basic and always the same.

What will your topic be?

and

What do you want to say about it?


If I can answer those two questions, the piece pretty much writes itself.

It really is as simple as that.

–ME “Liz” Strauss

Related
How To Beat Writer’s Block
Questions about Burnout and Writer’s Block
Why Dave Barry and Liz Don’t Get Writer’s Block
The Power Writing Series on the SUCCESSFUL SERIES PAGE

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Don’t Fear the Blank Screen — Be a Miner

Filed Under Content, Successful Blog, Writing | 8 Comments

Staring at a Blank Screen

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Staring at a blank screen does nothing for me. In fact, I recommend against it. In my way of thinking, blank things encourage more blank things. When I want my head filled with information and ideas, not with blank, emptiness I do this. Read more

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A Sample 6-Minute Transition

Filed Under Motivation/Inspiration, Productivity, Successful Blog, Writing | Leave a Comment

A Sample Transition–Try It

A short transition, like the one I wrote about this morning, is not only a great way to prepare for writing, it’s a great way to unwind at the end of the day.

So with that in mind, I saved this sample transition-retreat for now. Put some kick back music in your headphones and enjoy this photo (or choose one of your own). If you want a written reflection, click the image and you can use the one I wrote for it.

Heart on the Water

Heart upon the Water photo from stock exchange

Taking care of you is also a great way to take care of those around you.

Brand you and me.

–ME “Liz” Strauss

Related article
6-Minute Transition to Writing
Editing: Just Some of My Very Different Thoughts
Creative Wonder 101 as Promotion and Problem Solving
Eye-Deas 2: Test Ideas with Photo Searches

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6-Minute Transition to Writing

Filed Under Motivation/Inspiration, Productivity, Successful Blog, Writing | 9 Comments

I’m No Good at Transitions

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Start a day in a meeting; then it’s off to start writing. Some people can immediately be working. That won’t be me that you’re seeing. I’m not one of those people. I’m no good at transitions.

Tim Allen best expressed this feeling. He said smething like,

I hate getting into the shower, and I hate getting out.

That’s me.

The problem is I leave a meeting, chirping like a box of birds. It’s a personal idiosyncrasy–once my extrovert gets talking and interacting, I have trouble finding my thinking and writing introvert. As with most things me, the only solution I’ve found — giving my brain what it needs — I’m good at that. Read more

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