Character Development Secrets When Writer’s Block Strikes

Every writer has experienced writer’s block. When you have a story to tell but are not really sure where or even how to start. It’s a big challenge to overcome and it can easily kill what could have been a great novel. One major problem that causes writer’s block is being unsure about how to[…]

Do What Makes You Nervous

Not all of us are born with the “daredevil gene.” Some people thrive on adventure, boldly going where no man has gone before.  The thrill of adventure and even the sense of danger energizes them. Others, not so much. But whether you are a thrill seeker or avoider, it’s often the places that make you nervous, the situations that stretch you and[…]

Keeping Readers Engaged Between Books

After releasing their first book, authors gain a legion of followers eager to plow through any other work they can find by the author. Unfortunately, they find little, if any. By the time a follow-up book is published, these once eager readers no longer have the same level of eagerness as before. This is one[…]

man in a meeting

How You’re an Influencer

Most people are not all that impressed with themselves. It’s understandable. We are all too aware of our shortcomings and flaws. We all know people who are more talented, gifted, fortunate, or favored than we are.  So while we can put on a good mask and work to convey confidence, inside, we know we have[…]

Using Short Stories or Articles To Market Your Book 

Free stories are a bit of a conundrum for many writers. They are easy to write, format, and edit. However, most writers are not sure what to do with them? Many do not have enough stories to put together as a collection. Most writers who attempt to sell individual stories on online platforms do not[…]

Giving Honor

The other day, I was talking to a friend, a young woman I’ve only known and worked with for a short while. We were talking about someone we both know, and neither one of us particularly likes. This person has a pretty high position in an organization where my friend volunteers. I was enjoying (probably a little too much)[…]

Lead With Gratitude

I like taking personality tests – Myers Briggs, Strength Finders, Enneagram, DISC – I’m sure there are others. Probably the one I’ve used the most is the DISC test which gives you a “score” in each of these four personality types: Dominant – change-agents, leaders, extroverted, task-oriented Inspiring – outgoing, communicators, extroverted, people-oriented Supportive – reliable, consistent, stable,[…]

Your Calling Hidden in Plain Sight

In life, there are constant demands on your time and attention.  It’s easy to get lost – to find yourself going through the motions. You are working hard, paddling as fast as you can, trying to keep your head above the waterline and not drown in your to-do list. Along the way, perhaps you stop and[…]