It seems most writers equate success with being read. But I'm just not sure that's what it's about. I just have to believe that, at least for me, writing is about more than simply how many people notice my words or click on my blog or like my post.
Tag: writing
On writing for consumption: why do we share publicly?
The nature of writing and sharing publicly compels me to consider my heart behind why I do it. Here are some questions I return to when I consider why and when to share my writing publicly.
on writing and cultivating intimacy with God
Our ministry is not what enables our intimacy with the Lord... rather it is our personal intimacy with the Lord that enables and empowers our ministry. So friends, do not neglect spending time with the Lord. He is your lifeline, your strength, and your daily sustenance.
things that change and things that don’t
I didn't intend to take the whole summer off of writing, but that's what happened. This summer has been filled with change (both good and bad). God has been doing so much lately, and it hasn't all been easy. He has been changing plans and pausing dreams, revealing idols and misplaced identities, asking for surrender and deeper trust. But for some reason, even though so much has been happening, month after month, I have found myself without words.
on creative space
In so many areas of life we push and push and push ourselves until we can output quality work. In some instances we can work long hours and try our hardest until the result is exactly what we want. However, I've found that it's not necessarily the same with writing and other creative endeavors.
connecting with your audience
When it comes to writing, one of the most important things is connecting to your audience. You could have a great hook, a powerful introduction, and incredible content, but if your words don't connect to your audience they will fall on deaf ears.
Every writer needs a family
Every writer needs a family... a community of committed friends that will help encourage, sharpen, and spur them on in their craft. Every writer needs a coach. Someone to guide, challenge, cheer, and show them the paths to making excellent work.
write about the hurt
I get it. The happy-go-lucky posts might get more views. The fluffy, easy posts might garner more likes. But oftentimes the happy and the fluffy are masking what's really going on. And when it comes down to it, I'm not really sure that's what people actually want to read.
books I read this year on writing
This month's reading tips is simply a list of all the books I've read this year on writing. Bottom line, I wholeheartedly recommend all of them if you're looking to grow as a writer!
how to grab (and keep) your reader’s attention
I'm really excited about this issue's writing tips because I get to introduce you to a writer and editor who I look up to immensely. I'm privileged to work with Grayson Pope at GCD, and he's recently started a regular column on writing. In this article, he shares two things that your writing must have in order to grab (and keep) your reader's attention.
Who are you reading?
It's one of the first questions I am often asked by writing mentors when I am struggling with some aspect of my writing. And it's become one of the questions that I most love to ask other writers. Who we read shapes how we write.
writing wisdom from Jen Wilkin
As believers, we must write as one who will give an account for every word we speak (and write). At the same time, there is grace when we don't get it right. We must embrace this tension, writing with fear and trembling while leaning into the abundant grace of God.
that terrifying blank page.
If you're a writer, you know what I'm talking about. That dreaded feeling of sitting in front of a blank page and having absolutely no idea what to say. The whiteness of the page seems to laugh at you and the nothingness seems to bore into your soul.
writing from who you are
Don't change your words or your presence to fit what you think people want to hear or what you think will garner "likes." Write the words that spill out from the depths of who you are. Write the words you can't help but write.
July reads
July was full...and interspersed between the big and memorable moments were lots of wonderful small moments too. Lots of walks through our neighborhood to our favorite overlook. Ordering pad Thai at our favorite restaurant. Dinners with friends and playing volleyball with our small group...I also read a few books that I'm excited to share with you!
lauren-bowerman.com 