You Write What You Read
This week, I’ve been posting my thoughts on how to write interesting articles.
One way to make sure you write interesting stuff is to read interesting stuff. Don’t want to write the same blah articles as everyone else? Then don’t READ the same boring stuff they do!
It’s really true – “you write what you read!”
One of my favorite authors, Catherine Marshall, said she couldn’t allow herself to read anything while she was working on her first book. She noticed that her own writing started to sound like whoever she was reading at the time.¬† So, each chapter sounded different from the others.
I see this in myself too. When I read articles that just aren’t great, I notice my standards for my own writing drop a little bit.
When I read someone who has unique ideas (even if I don’t agree with them) and writes in a distinct voice, I find myself challenged to write something as equally unique.
To find articles that inspire you to improve your writing, look for a leader in your particular industry. Industry leaders are usually bubbling over with original ideas, and express them well.
Of course, you should still read other articles, to keep up with what others in your field are saying. But when you need a dose of inspiration, reach for something that raises the bar.
With all that said, whose articles inspire you?
