Sagging Middles: Deepen Character Motivations by Introducing External Pressures
Deepening your characters’ motivations in the middle section of a story is vital to increasing the narrative's momentum. The middle should further complicate the plot and create a more layered, intertwined experience. One way to achieve this is by introducing external pressure—whether from antagonists, societal expectations, or unexpected complications—to force characters to confront their fears, desires, and flaws.
Writing Lyrics and Music: Start with Authentic Emotion
Writing authentic lyrics and music starts with emotion. Whether you're crafting a heartfelt ballad or an energetic anthem, connecting with real emotions—your own or those of your audience—is key. This article explores techniques for writing with authenticity, using imagery, hooks, and musical composition to enhance emotional impact.
Writing Guest Blogs: Know Your Goals
Writing guest blogs can be a powerful tool for building your brand, expanding your audience, and establishing your authority. But before you start, it's crucial to define your goals. Are you looking for traffic, credibility, networking, or SEO benefits? Understanding your objectives will ensure your efforts are strategic, effective, and beneficial in the long run.
Where the Mountains Speak: Writing the Essence of Appalachia
The Appalachian Mountains are more than just a setting—they are a living, breathing character in storytelling. From the misty ridges to the dense forests, their essence shapes both the people who inhabit them and the stories they inspire.
Great Beginnings—The Core Attributes of a Strong Protagonist: Clear Goals and Complex Motivations
A strong protagonist hooks readers from the first page. By giving them clear, significant goals and complex, relatable motivations, we create characters that resonate deeply. A protagonist’s journey should be layered with internal and external conflicts, emotional stakes, and evolving ambitions that drive the story forward.
How Acting Benefits a Writer
Acting can transform your writing, enhancing dialogue, character depth, and storytelling techniques. Learn how stepping onto the stage—or simply observing—can elevate your craft as a writer.
Writing One Book A Year: You Need Your Cake and Eat It Too
Writers are often told to produce one book per year, but at what cost? Discover why every book should be a breakout book and why quality should never be sacrificed for speed.
Realistic Writing: The Art of Implying and Suggesting
Realistic writing reflects the truth of the seen world by implying and suggesting rather than revealing everything. Learn how to create authentic characters and situations by embracing the unknown.
The Endless Possibilities of Plots: Breaking Free from Limitations
Plots are not limited to a fixed number; they are as endless as life itself. Writers should embrace originality and creativity, crafting plots that capture the complexity of life, relationships, and character arcs.
The Art of Creativity: Breaking Rules, Finding Precedence, and Sharing Stories
Creativity is a complex process that involves breaking rules, recognizing cultural influences, and advancing the discipline. For creativity to reach its full potential, it must be shared with others and break free from its vacuum. Writers must know precedence, but also push beyond it to create something original and lasting.
Writers Beware: There is No Formula for Writing
There’s no magic formula for great writing—only hard work, creativity, and persistence. Beware of rigid writing rules that promise success. Instead, focus on learning, reading, practicing, and refining your craft to become an original, engaging writer.
Have Courage to Be Vulnerable
Creativity thrives on vulnerability, yet fear of imperfection often holds us back. True expression requires courage—the courage to make mistakes, embrace our individuality, and share our voices with the world.
Unleashing Your Authentic Potential as a Writer
Becoming a successful writer isn’t just about talent or intelligence—it’s about authenticity. Great writers know their strengths and weaknesses, embrace their unique voice, and continuously seek improvement. By understanding yourself and staying true to your perspective, you unlock your full potential as a writer.
Harnessing the Power of Words: Igniting Progress and Change
Writers have the power to shape society by reflecting values and inspiring change. Through thoughtful storytelling—not preaching—we can reveal truth, spark dialogue, and influence the world, one word at a time.
Creating Captivating Books
As both a reader and reviewer, I seek stories that captivate and compel. Discover how to create books readers truly want to finish by writing with purpose, clarity, and emotional pull.
Boost Creativity and Productivity with Daily Exercises
Creativity can’t be summoned on command—but it can be encouraged and shaped. Learn how to spark inspiration daily, then turn raw ideas into powerful writing tools.
Get Your Characters a Job
Characters' jobs are more than just details; they shape personalities, relationships, and the plot. Explore how a character's career can add depth, reveal inner motives, and drive the story forward.
Let’s Make a Plan
Start the year strong by making your writing and career resolutions stick. Join me daily for tips and insights to help you reach your goals in writing, publishing, marketing, and more. Let’s make 2024 your best year yet.