Is Writing a 21st century Requirement? Enter our Gratitude Travel Writing Contest until Nov 28.
My favorite part of publishing travels stories on We Said Go Travel is getting to cybermeet people from all over our planet. I love stories about honeymooning in Murree, Pakistan or a first solo travel in South East Asia, when an author tells about a place they love or that transformed them I am always interested.
Often people ask me how to write better. My recommendation is to read Write Out Loud, a book designed to help high school students write their essays for college. As Carol Barash states, “When you master your stories, you master your life. And when you change your stories, you change your life.” Her simple steps to improve your writing by sharing “the three D’s: details, dialogue, and description” will help you. In the 21st century, everyone has to tell their own story and be their own best marketer. “’No matter your age, it is now required that you can share stories that reveal your character, and what the world looks like from your perspective.” Participating in any profession or social media network necessitates you to tell your tale and in an engaging manner.
I completely agree with Barash that “When you put yourself and your experience into an issue, you instantly raise the stakes and people need to take you seriously. They may not agree with you, but they are likely to respect your passion, commitment, and willingness to be vulnerable in the service of others.” Once you find a way to tell your stories you may be surprised at the doors that open for you. Practicing makes it easier.
There are “massive open online courses (MOOCs) and other online training programs. There are core competencies in many fields that you can now study—for free or nearly free—from the top professors at the top universities. Take a look at everything that is offered on Coursera and Udacity.” You can create your own free blog or publish on someone else’s but everyone has a story to share.
Wondering what you need to do? Using the Moments Method, you will learn to focus on key issues: “Does the essay explore specific events, or does it remain general? Does the essay draw the reader in right from the start? Does the essay leave the reader with a feeling that maybe he or she has met you before or wants to meet you in person and learn more about you?” After working on the exercises, I am certain you will be a better writer.
“Neuroscience research shows that when people listen to a story there are three immediate responses: their brains trigger memories of similar stories; they feel empathy; and they have a desire to take action.” I hope you will consider sharing a story of transformation with our growing global community; we cannot wait to learn more about you. Remember, “stick to the actions, dialogue, and details to show your reader what you realized, thought, or felt.” Some of the best tales about what happened nearby or in your own backyard. “Reveal the depth of your character, your intellectual curiosity, the impact you had on your local community, and the impact the community has had on you.”
Great snap shot of why writing is so important. Thanks for the links! I love how your site is designed to be able to showcase so many diverse stories.