Statistics show that the average American spends more than four hours a day glued to the “boob tube”.
That comes out to 28 hours a week, or more than half of the standard work week.
For the typical couch potato, this popular past-time pursuit can translate into unproductive down-time and unwanted pounds. But, for the savvy scribe the boob tube can be a smart choice for generating creative ideas and a steady cash flow.
Contrary to popular opinion, all T.V. is not to be considered “junk food” for the mind. As with many things in life, “it all depends on how you choose to look at it.”
As a veteran freelance writer and relationship columnist for many years, I can attest that when it comes to T.V. land, “there's gold in 'dem there hills.”
Here's how to capitalize on it and cash in:
1. Weigh in---Have you ever found yourself fussing at the T.V. in frustration over a ridiculous position voiced by a politician, public figure, or commentator? Put pen to paper and give your two cents on the matter. For example, while recently watching “The View”, I strongly disagreed with one of the host's (Elizabeth's) assertion that when men visually check out attractive women outside of their relationship, it predisposes them to cheating. Hogwash.
Just because you look at the menu doesn't mean you have to order, right? My rebuttal on this topic became an article entitled “The Roving Eye Syndrome.” It appeared in a national magazine for singles, and I earned 100 bucks for my two cents.
2. Increase awareness---Some time ago, I learned on a T.V. news program that one of my favorite columnists, Mary Mitchell, was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. As a matter of fact, so have quite a few of my favorite entertainment icons. This disheartening discovery motivated me to learn more about this devastating disease and to write a column on this topic for one of my weekly forums for women.
3. Share the Aha Moments!---Talk show forums like Oprah and Tyra often provide opportunities to uncover self-defeating habits, destructive relationship patterns, and unhealthy lifestyle choices through expert guests and no-holds barred dialogue. Tap into it and help others to live a more enlightened life.
4. You be the judge---I'm a big fan of the many courtroom T.V. shows---from Judge Judy, to Judge Mathis, to Family Court, to Divorce Court. These daily “dramas” are a virtual gold mine for what not to do in familial and personal relationships. No topic is taboo. Not to mention, the names and characters can be changed to form the foundation for fictional pieces. Tune in and take note.
5. Uplift the masses---For me, writing is a ministry. To be “spiritually fed,” I find myself watching minister Joel Osteen weekly, and putting a spin on his eloquent sermons and the related scriptural lessons. You can too.
By following these five timely tips you'll soon discover why the boob tube is a smart choice for a successful and profitable writing career.
Has TV ever inspired your writing? Do you consider it a good source for new writing material? What's your take on this topic?
I never thought about it, because I suppose I use the TV as a way to "relax" - to have that "mind-numbing nothingness" experience where I don't have to think or create, but instead watch what others have thought about and created! :) By the way, over here from your guest blog on "blog tips."
ReplyDeleteOk... Hi Kathryn, WELCOME!
ReplyDeleteGood to have you here. I know what you mean by using TV to relax. I do it too.
But sometimes it helps to kill 2 birds with one stone, particularly if you're on deadline with editors.:-)
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