Redundancy is like buying the same sparkly handbag in two colours—it seems like a good idea at first, but you’re doubling up unnecessarily. In writing, redundancy means expressing the same idea twice in different ways. While it may seem harmless, these double expressions can make your text clunky and less engaging. Say More with Less […]
Double Trouble: Redundancy Ruins Readability Read More »
In the noisy world of content creation, clichés are the equivalent of static on a radio station—distracting, annoying, and entirely avoidable. Phrases like “Data is the new oil” or “Fail fast” may have started as fresh insights, but over time, their overuse has rendered them stale and ineffective. Instead of inspiring readers, clichés often provoke
Why Clichés Weaken Your Message Read More »
In the world of writing and publishing, editors play a crucial role in ensuring that written works are of the highest quality possible. One thing that editors commonly do is remove repeated text, which can be a significant issue in writing. Editors also work to help release writers from “jail,” a term used to describe
We need to release those repeated repeated words ASAP Read More »
Writing’s hard work. When you’re grinding through a draft, a business proposal, a testimonial or writing a speech, it’s tempting to let your fingers do the thinking. You reach for phrases that feel right. They’re smooth. Familiar. Harmless. They’re also worn out. I’m not talking about clichés exactly. More like recycled comfort food. Easy lines
The Lazy Language Trap Read More »
Research led by Andrew C. Gallup, associate professor of psychology at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, suggests that yawning has a brain-cooling function. “Brain temperature rises during times of stress and anxiety,” Gallup said. “And yawning naturally occurs before and during stressful situations, promoting relaxation and better cognitive functioning. It has nothing to do with boredom.” Although there
Why Yawning Beats Peanut Butter on Pancakes Read More »
Welcome to the exciting world of writing, where every word you choose has the power to captivate, inspire, and inform your readers. The preface is one of the most crucial elements of any book, mainly non-fiction. Often overlooked or rushed through, a well-crafted preface can be your secret weapon to connect with your audience and
Crafting a Captivating Preface: Your Gateway to Engaging Readers Read More »
In the dynamic business landscape, where every interaction holds growth potential, communication is the cornerstone of success. However, beyond the traditional correspondence and messaging lies an often-underestimated tool: public speaking. For business leaders and entrepreneurs, the ability to wield the spoken word isn’t merely an asset—it’s a game-changer. At its core, public speaking is the
Trust, Connect, Influence: The Crucial Role of Public Speaking for Leaders Read More »
I stepped out of my military duties in Canada in ‘82, carrying high hopes for a future as a journalist, writer, editor—and, one day, the owner of a publishing powerhouse. And why not—a speaker? A tough road lay ahead, with nearly a dozen long years passing before finally taking the initial strides toward making my
How I Conquered Public Speaking with Toastmasters Read More »
In a panel discussion on navigating today’s competitive business landscape, the question of what propels the journey arose. As I awaited my fellow panellists’ answers, I realized that venturing into this world wasn’t a conscious decision but something I embraced. How did I arrive at this point? More importantly, how can you reach this point?
Three Steps to Success Read More »
Writing, my fellow journeyers, can be intimidating. It’s a solitary trek across an arid, featureless plain where the horizon stretches, and the end is never in sight. The blank page drops into rifts for those who pick up the pen or join the other in creating a singular work. Yet, fear not. We are not
A Lantern in the Dark: Writing Without Fear Read More »
