I’ve been writing my whole life. Most of the time writing comes easily to me. But writing to build an online business is a whole different ball game. Demands get more intense every year. As more people write content, the challenge becomes write more, be persuasive and (most important) have something to say.
So how what do prolific writers do? Three suggestions to start (and reply if you’ve got additional tips):
1 – They keep a log of stories.
Don’t restrict your attention to business stories; a story from your personal life, a movie, or a podcast might turn out to serve your marketing purpose some day.
Pay special attention to stories that arrive in your email inbox. Which of those stories seem to be effective? How are they using those stories: what’s their purpose? Do their stories fit the purpose? What about their brand and story archetype?
2 – They write every day (well, almost).
Stephen King says he writes on his birthday and Christmas, but you can make your own rules and days off. I find if I’ve had a particularly productive day, the next one has to be more easygoing.
Think of each piece you write as something you’ll use at least three times: a blog post, podcast episode, video script and maybe even a part of a book chapter.
Most writers agree, writing doesn’t necessarily get easier as you write more. But you do develop a habit and an ear for “what’s working.”
3 -They’re willing to miss a few shots.
Star basketball players take a lot of shots…and miss a lot, too. Often you’ll get frustrated with your rough drafts. Many writers (including me) spend more time revising than doing the original writing.
When you write a lot, you’ll come up with some pieces that fall flat…but you’ll also come up with far more content that works perfectly to serve your purpose. You won’t get all wrapped up in a particular piece or fall in love with a metaphor (always a dangerous idea).
And you’ll develop a thicker skin.
Somebody doesn’t like this one article? No problem. You’ve got a dozen more in your back pocket.
Three resources to help your writing become more productive:
Dennis Becker’s guide to being more productive as a writer has been around awhile, and it’s still one of the best. Click here to learn more.
Cindy Bidar’s content creation blueprint gives detailed guidance in her usual down-to-earth, step-by-step fashion. Click here.
My course to help you write better blog posts more easily, using storytelling (with Sue Dunlevie). Click here and take 50% off with the code BLOGJAN. You’ll be asked to create a password when you sign up and pay.
As you know, I earn a payment or commission when you buy after clicking through on my links. I try to recommend helpful resources you might not find easily.