The 'lazy' days of summer are coming to an abrupt end as they do each year. Mothers cheer as the big yellow buses pass by carrying off their children to school. Professionals, teachers and executives return to their offices and close up their summer homes. We all acknowledge the relief that summer's end brings because we crave some sort of structure--which is often lost during the sunny days and sultry nights. Just as January is the month of resolutions, so September is a month of returns. Returning to schedules, structures and hopeful accomplishments that were sidetracked while we vacationed, traveled, entertained, taxi'd and referree'd our children.
Start this new season by finding your new voice! Do you speak at work? Are you a seminar presenter? Are you hoping to become a public or professional speaker? If so, check out our monthly group, Speak UP Step OUT, for women in and around Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
Perhaps you've always wanted to write. Start this fall by establishing a writing routine. Our monthly group WriteShare meets the first Thursday of each month. After a short time of informational guidance, we embark on almost one full hour of devoted and guided writing.
For more information, email info@onedaysharing.com or check out our web site at www.onedaysharing.com. ReTurn to your goals, dreams and desires this September.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
JUST WRITE THIS SUMMER
The long sunny days of summer have arrived and, with these days, we have two choices: to write or do something else. If you choose to write 300 words 5 days a week for 8 weeks, you do the math! That's 12,000 words--1/3 of a book completed by summer's end with no more than 20 minutes worth of time each day. This is how successful authors and writers becomes successful--they actually sit down and write. While the rest of us talk about writing, meet at writer's group meetings, attend writer's conferences and take classes, the writers are counting the words added to their work every day and shopping for publishing options. Below are 5 things to do to make writing happen.
Establish a writing schedule. If you have a solid writing project in mind, start writing about it. Set aside time five days a week and promise not to leave your computer or pen until you have a certain amount of words on paper. OR, if you prefer time-pressures, implement a writing schedule of 15 minutes per day. Several authors, became authors by writing 15 minutes a day.
Create a tracking log. A tracking log starts with four columns: the date; the starting word count, ending word count and the difference. Track your progress by inputting the information daily into your writer's tracking log.
Seek out inspiring writing materials. Look for books and magazines that inspire you to write your desired genre. Read what other writers do and adopt your own system that works with your lifestyle and schedule.
Plan one or two extended writing periods. I book 'writing appointments' with myself. If I don't do that, phone calls, Facebook, texts, kids, laundry, the dog, or work will take over every second of every day. However, if I schedule writing appointments, they are just as important as work-related meetings. If you don't think of your work as important enough to keep an appointment to write, how will others take you seriously and treat your time as valuable?
Leave your normal surroundings. The best way to avoid all of the other things that will steal your time away from writing, is to leave them behind. Head to a park, lake, beach, or mountain spot with your pen and paper or fully-charged laptop and write for as long as you possibly can.
Remember to JUST WRITE. Don't stop to edit a work until you've completed a large portion of it. First--get all of your thoughts out, then go back and write, rewrite, edit and put in the mechancis. Don't get bogged down with the nuts and bolts: JUST WRITE!
For more writing tips, check out Writer's Digest, The Writer, and your local library or bookstore for writing tools. Also, if you live in Bucks County, PA and would like to know more about the Communicators' Clique, visit us at http://www.onedaysharing.com/. We have writing days scheduled this summer as well as a Fall Commuicators' Retreat.
For the record: This blog is 527 words and I wrote it in less than 20 minutes. Choose to write this summer--it can be done--but it is a choice!
Establish a writing schedule. If you have a solid writing project in mind, start writing about it. Set aside time five days a week and promise not to leave your computer or pen until you have a certain amount of words on paper. OR, if you prefer time-pressures, implement a writing schedule of 15 minutes per day. Several authors, became authors by writing 15 minutes a day.
Create a tracking log. A tracking log starts with four columns: the date; the starting word count, ending word count and the difference. Track your progress by inputting the information daily into your writer's tracking log.
Seek out inspiring writing materials. Look for books and magazines that inspire you to write your desired genre. Read what other writers do and adopt your own system that works with your lifestyle and schedule.
Plan one or two extended writing periods. I book 'writing appointments' with myself. If I don't do that, phone calls, Facebook, texts, kids, laundry, the dog, or work will take over every second of every day. However, if I schedule writing appointments, they are just as important as work-related meetings. If you don't think of your work as important enough to keep an appointment to write, how will others take you seriously and treat your time as valuable?
Leave your normal surroundings. The best way to avoid all of the other things that will steal your time away from writing, is to leave them behind. Head to a park, lake, beach, or mountain spot with your pen and paper or fully-charged laptop and write for as long as you possibly can.
Remember to JUST WRITE. Don't stop to edit a work until you've completed a large portion of it. First--get all of your thoughts out, then go back and write, rewrite, edit and put in the mechancis. Don't get bogged down with the nuts and bolts: JUST WRITE!
For more writing tips, check out Writer's Digest, The Writer, and your local library or bookstore for writing tools. Also, if you live in Bucks County, PA and would like to know more about the Communicators' Clique, visit us at http://www.onedaysharing.com/. We have writing days scheduled this summer as well as a Fall Commuicators' Retreat.
For the record: This blog is 527 words and I wrote it in less than 20 minutes. Choose to write this summer--it can be done--but it is a choice!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
What is the Communicators' Clique?
What on earth is the "Communicators' Clique?" It is a membership for women who seek to write, speak and become better all-around communicators.
On the FIRST Thursday of each month a group of ASPIRING and INSPIRING women gather together to learn more about the writing process, themselves, publishing options and of course, the opportunity to just WRITE! If you are looking for a writer's group specifically for women, come try us out on Thursday, May 6. We have a morning group meeting from 9 to 11 a.m. and an evening group from 7 to 9 p.m. If you have a book, blog, newsletter, article, story or message inside you--don't put it off until "someday" start writing TOday! There's no promise of a SOMEday--so start writing your message TODAY!
On the THIRD Thursday of each month a group of ASPIRING women who are aware of their need to increase their confidence in public speaking, conversation, and interaction come together to develop verbal communication skills. Sample themes for each meeting:
1. Conversation Starters
2. The 30-second introduction (with a twist)
3. Power-packed presentations
4. Inspirational Speaking
If you think you're a good speaker, join us--we invite you to share your expertise with us. Public Speaking development will help improve confidence, clarity and credibility. Join us TOMORROW, April 15 at Speak UP Step OUT in Lahaska.
For more information about the Communicators Clique, visit www.onedaysharing.com.
On the FIRST Thursday of each month a group of ASPIRING and INSPIRING women gather together to learn more about the writing process, themselves, publishing options and of course, the opportunity to just WRITE! If you are looking for a writer's group specifically for women, come try us out on Thursday, May 6. We have a morning group meeting from 9 to 11 a.m. and an evening group from 7 to 9 p.m. If you have a book, blog, newsletter, article, story or message inside you--don't put it off until "someday" start writing TOday! There's no promise of a SOMEday--so start writing your message TODAY!
On the THIRD Thursday of each month a group of ASPIRING women who are aware of their need to increase their confidence in public speaking, conversation, and interaction come together to develop verbal communication skills. Sample themes for each meeting:
1. Conversation Starters
2. The 30-second introduction (with a twist)
3. Power-packed presentations
4. Inspirational Speaking
If you think you're a good speaker, join us--we invite you to share your expertise with us. Public Speaking development will help improve confidence, clarity and credibility. Join us TOMORROW, April 15 at Speak UP Step OUT in Lahaska.
For more information about the Communicators Clique, visit www.onedaysharing.com.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
The Message of Music
I LOVE music! It is a beautiful gift that musicians give that speaks volumes. This is the reason I use music to inspire me in writing and speaking. The words often give the extra punch that my message needs. Have you ever thought of using meaningful songs to improve your written or spoken messages? Music:
- Promotes thought.
- Instigates introspection.
- Speaks UP and OUT.
- Entertains listeners.
- Explains emotions.
- Soothes broken hearts.
- Captivates body and soul.
- Encourages movement.
- Reinforces beliefs...and so much more.
- Have faith in yourself during this Holy week.
- Take time to develop your goals as a communicator or messenger.
- Listen to music to refine your message(s).
Thinking about doing something is good.
Planning for it is better;
DOING it is defeating the urge to quit.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Choosey Communicators Choose Words Well
Did you know that there is absolutely nothing wrong with inventing your own words? We do it all the time. This past week, I was brainstorming with a couple of women for an upcoming event and a new word rolled off my tongue...'FUNFESSIONAL'...I was shocked when I thought of it, but it fit the purpose behind our brainstorming. I have since "Googled" the word and found out that I didn't invent it, but it is a great word that describes someone who is a professional but knows how to integrate professionalism with fun. Jamie Broderick, has accomplished this mission of combining fun and professionalism in the culture of her organization, Network Now.
Have you invented words? Have you thought about sharing them with anyone? Another word that I frequently use is 'FANTABULOUS.' I have no idea if I thought of that one on my own or if I heard it along the way somewhere, but I love how it puts a different spin on fantastic and fabulous. Sometimes, the English language lacks enough descriptive words, which is why it's fun to try to invent new ones.
Each year Webster's adds new words to their dictionary. Recently added words include: BLOG, GOOGLE and BRAINFREEZE. Those are everyday words for us now, but 25 years ago, we weren't familiar with those terms (brainfreeze maybe, but certainly not the other two).
Words, when used appropriately, are building blocks to deeper communication. Words, when not used appropriately, are the missing link in broken relationships and hurtful insults. When communicating, try to broaden your vocabulary by adding variety to your message. Not long, obnoxious words that will mute your message, but fun words that will instigate thought with your receivers.
CHALLENGE
Post your new words on the Communicators' Clique and let's see how creative we can be.
Have you invented words? Have you thought about sharing them with anyone? Another word that I frequently use is 'FANTABULOUS.' I have no idea if I thought of that one on my own or if I heard it along the way somewhere, but I love how it puts a different spin on fantastic and fabulous. Sometimes, the English language lacks enough descriptive words, which is why it's fun to try to invent new ones.
Each year Webster's adds new words to their dictionary. Recently added words include: BLOG, GOOGLE and BRAINFREEZE. Those are everyday words for us now, but 25 years ago, we weren't familiar with those terms (brainfreeze maybe, but certainly not the other two).
Words, when used appropriately, are building blocks to deeper communication. Words, when not used appropriately, are the missing link in broken relationships and hurtful insults. When communicating, try to broaden your vocabulary by adding variety to your message. Not long, obnoxious words that will mute your message, but fun words that will instigate thought with your receivers.
CHALLENGE
Post your new words on the Communicators' Clique and let's see how creative we can be.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
The Noreaster is Coming--PREPARE TO WRITE
Later tonight, the Greater Philadelphia Region will be experiencing our fourth major snowstorm of the season. Take advantage of the winter weather and WRITE about it. Complaining about it accomplishes nothing, but if you write in the midst of the storm, you will accomplish something valuable. People living through this winter will not forget it anytime soon and future generations will wonder what it was like. Here are some tips to get your creative juices flowing to take advantage of the life-halting experience a snowstorm brings.
SNOWSTORMS FORCE US TO:
Stay off the roads. (unless, of course, we are emergency personnel and the road crews). So if you would be driving to work, to meetings, appointments, or errands--instead, use that time to WRITE.
Stay inside. Think of a snowstorm as a free night at home instead of running your children to all of their activities or running yourself to your activities--WRITE.
Cuddle up. Grab a pen and journal OR laptop and WRITE.
Shovel and dig out--NO. Find a hungry teenager (hungry for food, gas money, itunes cards, video games, whatever) and hire him or her to do your shoveling. That frees you up to WRITE.
Avoid doing laundry, housework or the bills--avoid anything that HAS to get done because at some point, it will get done sooner or later. Start writing in those few moments while gazing out your window watching the swirling snowflakes quietly cover the ground once again. Enjoy those peaceful flakes because soon enough the rush of normal life will squeeze out the silence that is in the midst of a snowfall.
Set Snowday Boundaries with your kids. Yes--it is actually acceptable to tell your children they are to occupy themselves for one hour while you steal away to pull your thoughts together to accomplish something for you. But, just in case--pull out some movies and popcorn and tiptoe out of the room.
WRITE about snow or sand, or sea--JUST WRITE!
SNOWSTORMS FORCE US TO:
Stay off the roads. (unless, of course, we are emergency personnel and the road crews). So if you would be driving to work, to meetings, appointments, or errands--instead, use that time to WRITE.
Stay inside. Think of a snowstorm as a free night at home instead of running your children to all of their activities or running yourself to your activities--WRITE.
Cuddle up. Grab a pen and journal OR laptop and WRITE.
Shovel and dig out--NO. Find a hungry teenager (hungry for food, gas money, itunes cards, video games, whatever) and hire him or her to do your shoveling. That frees you up to WRITE.
Avoid doing laundry, housework or the bills--avoid anything that HAS to get done because at some point, it will get done sooner or later. Start writing in those few moments while gazing out your window watching the swirling snowflakes quietly cover the ground once again. Enjoy those peaceful flakes because soon enough the rush of normal life will squeeze out the silence that is in the midst of a snowfall.
Set Snowday Boundaries with your kids. Yes--it is actually acceptable to tell your children they are to occupy themselves for one hour while you steal away to pull your thoughts together to accomplish something for you. But, just in case--pull out some movies and popcorn and tiptoe out of the room.
WRITE about snow or sand, or sea--JUST WRITE!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Write Better, Share More
In my neck of the woods, we just experienced the biggest snowfall in 14 years--which has allowed many of us to actually stay off the roads and away from the hectic running we are so accustomed to doing on a daily basis. I am thankful for days like that because it slows me down and helps me realize that there are more important things in life than working, running and doing. It is BEING! Being able to sit by a fire, play a game with a child, watch a movie, shovel out an elderly neighbor, throw a few snowballs, and laugh like a kid again.
As a writer, it also allows time to sit back and gather ideas for the next article, blog, newsletter or book. For those of you who spent yesterday snowed in and cut off from the norm, did you post on your Facebook or LinkedIn, did you write a newsletter or blog? Have you ever thought of writing a fiction or non-fiction book or articles based on life experiences? Would you like to journal your life or write memoirs? Maybe you have to give presentations or seminars and are looking for a supportive and inspiring group to help cultivate powerful writing skills.
Come out to WriteShare--a 'Communicators' Clique' monthly group. We are friendly, non-threatening and supportive for any genre of writing you seek to pursue. What we are not:
--Philosophical thinkers who only think about what we want to write
--Literary academics
--Talkers
What we are:
--DOERS -- we establish writing goals and work toward achieving those goals.
--SUPPORTERS -- we support each individual in the group
--ENCOURAGERS -- we encourage and motivate you to realize your personal potential
Join us at our next meeting on Tuesday, March 2 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. for the evening group -OR- March 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in Lahaska. You'll take that dream of writing to a whole new level an d you will Write Better and Share MORE.
As a writer, it also allows time to sit back and gather ideas for the next article, blog, newsletter or book. For those of you who spent yesterday snowed in and cut off from the norm, did you post on your Facebook or LinkedIn, did you write a newsletter or blog? Have you ever thought of writing a fiction or non-fiction book or articles based on life experiences? Would you like to journal your life or write memoirs? Maybe you have to give presentations or seminars and are looking for a supportive and inspiring group to help cultivate powerful writing skills.
Come out to WriteShare--a 'Communicators' Clique' monthly group. We are friendly, non-threatening and supportive for any genre of writing you seek to pursue. What we are not:
--Philosophical thinkers who only think about what we want to write
--Literary academics
--Talkers
What we are:
--DOERS -- we establish writing goals and work toward achieving those goals.
--SUPPORTERS -- we support each individual in the group
--ENCOURAGERS -- we encourage and motivate you to realize your personal potential
Join us at our next meeting on Tuesday, March 2 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. for the evening group -OR- March 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in Lahaska. You'll take that dream of writing to a whole new level an d you will Write Better and Share MORE.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Speaking and Writing--Communicate Better
Do you want to improve your public speaking abilities and become a more confident presenter?
Are you looking to become a speaker?
Would you like to polish your overall communication skills?
Have you always wanted to write a book?
Would you like to conduct seminars and prepare materials?
Then the Communicators' Clique is for you! What is the Communicators' Clique? It's a memembership of like-minded women who want to become better speakers or better writers or BOTH! If you are looking to improve your public presentation skills and/or become a writer, join us on February 4, 2010 as we explore all the benefits that One Day Sharing has to offer through the Communicators Clique membership. Don't put it off any longer, make 2010 be a better year and communicate confidently and stylishly. For more information, email info@onedaysharing.com.
Are you looking to become a speaker?
Would you like to polish your overall communication skills?
Have you always wanted to write a book?
Would you like to conduct seminars and prepare materials?
Then the Communicators' Clique is for you! What is the Communicators' Clique? It's a memembership of like-minded women who want to become better speakers or better writers or BOTH! If you are looking to improve your public presentation skills and/or become a writer, join us on February 4, 2010 as we explore all the benefits that One Day Sharing has to offer through the Communicators Clique membership. Don't put it off any longer, make 2010 be a better year and communicate confidently and stylishly. For more information, email info@onedaysharing.com.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Start Writing THAT Book Today
Have you always wanted to write a book, but you don't know how or where to get started? At One Day Sharing, we will help you see that dream become a reality by assisting you toward developing a saleable manuscript. We work alongside you to establish an achievable writing timeline, we offer suggestions and we brainstorm with you to provide new angles and ideas all while steering you toward your goal. We have already researched various publishers and will help you determine the best publishing option for you. Writing a book is not running a 50-yard dash--it's like training for a marathon because it takes planning and resilience to run across the finish line with your book in hand. If you were training for a marathon, you would need an accountability partner and preferably one that has run a marathon or two before. We are that accountability partner for aspiring authors. Our goal is to see that you reach your goal and realize your dream...it all starts on one day! What a difference today DOES make--start your book today!
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