At training camp for the World Race (waaayyyyy back in October), alumni Stephanie May gave a talk about the power of the pen. Her insight inspired storytelling in my life and I hope it will help you in yours as well.
I hope that my blog, stories, and experiences bring you hope, increased faith, joy, laughter, and open your eyes to more of the love of God that is available through Jesus Christ! I also challenge you to write your stories down for others to share! You never know how your experiences and life will inspire another to live a better story and to embrace the precious time we've been given to live!
So here are some thoughts from her talk to get you started!
1. Get Naked.
- Vulnerability is key
- The best work is on the verge of embarrassment
- You can’t write about something until you’ve processed through it
- Don’t shock for shocks sake
2. Notice the Small Stories.
- Be discreet if necessary
- Be conscientious
- Honor EVERYONE you write about
- Show the change, before and after: “I once thought this, now I think this.”
3. I want this blog to ______________.
- What do you want to write about?
- Who is this blog for?
- Pick something and focus on it. Then you’ll know who you are and who you’re not. (ex. If you’re writing to musicians, you’ll want to tie your stories back to that audience in some way.)
4. Get the Junk Out.
- Anyone who claims to be a good writer on the first try is probably lying. Just write something, then EDIT. EDIT.EDIT.
5. Tell me a story!
- Story first
- Then, why does it matter to you?
- Finish with a challenge! (ex. “What are you waiting for?”)
6. Show, Don’t Tell.
- Give evidence through the details. Help me see it. Show me sad, don’t tell me.
7. Put Value in their Inbox (Spread out the stories.)
- People trust you by giving you their email, don’t abuse the privilege
- Tell them something new, treat their mailbox with honor and respect.
8. Improve Your Taste
- What you read is what you’ll write.
- Ingest good things.
9. Don’t Write in Your Browser
- Write anywhere, not only at your computer. Carry a notepad to jot down ideas.
- Save your work often
10. A Great Volume of Work
- PRACTICE. A lot.
- Create a library of work, not just a small selection of “masterpieces.”
- Post shorter blogs with more consistency.
- Set a deadline.
11. Offer an Invitation.
- Live a Great Story, then write about it and invite others to do the same!
God Bless!
Love, Michelle
