Got Stress? The Doctor's In...

Sometimes stress seems like an "occupational hazard" for writers.
Doesn't it?
We agonize over deadlines, struggle with writer's block, and stretch ourselves to the limit.
Not to mention the constant juggling of other professional and personal demands.

Who wouldn't feel a bit overwhelmed from time to time?

Well, here to help us mellow the madness and answer a few stress related questions, we have with us today at Pen and Prosper, Dr. Serena Wadhwa of TriQual Living.

1. Dr. Wadhwa, is stress ever a good thing? If so, how?

Absolutely! We require a certain amount of stress that allow us to feel challenged, stimulated, and energized. When we are "understressed" or "overstressed' this reduces our ability to stretch ourselves and grow. Most people do well with an "optimal" level.

2. How about positive affirmations and mantras...do they work in terms of mellowing the madness?

Yes, it's possible. Some research indicates that specifically constructed affirmations create a different "pathway" in our brain for us to follow.

3. Are writers more inclined to stress than other "worker bees?"
It depends. I believe that the individual really makes the difference in terms of perceptions, abilities, coping skills, experience, lessons learned, etc. I know many writers struggle with writer's block, which can create more stress, particularly if there's a looming deadline for a project.

4. Is "writer's block" reality or perception?
Both. We may perceive a block to our creativity and there may be blocks to our creative flow (work pressures, family, unexpected events, emotions, etc.)

5. Are there gender differences in the way men and women deal with stress? Who's better?

Yes, some research indicates that women tend to deal with stress by looking for support, while men may look to problem-solve. This is partly related to the chemicals released during times of stress. Of course, these are overgeneralizations, but the release of certain chemicals do influence certain behaviors. As far as who’s better, I can’t answer that question. It’s just that men and women deal with things differently and this is something necessary to keep in mind.

6. Blogging seems to be a popular way that many workers today vent and deal with work woes. Would you advise it?

Venting can be both a helpful and harmful strategy to deal with frustration. Yes, individuals want to “get out” what’s bothering them and venting (whether through blogging or verbalizing) can be cathartic and help the person feel emotionally better, as the energy created, was discharged, however, when the same incident is vented again, it may “cement” the problem. Blogging seems to be different than journaling because of the often publicized nature. Individuals may say things they later regret and if blogged, it’s posted for others to possibly see. Additionally, venting doesn’t necessarily deal with the issue. For example, if I have a boss who has unrealistic expectations and expects me to work 12-14 hour days, venting about him doesn’t solve anything. In fact, it may reinforce my sense of helplessness and lack of control, rather than helping me seeking options to reduce these feelings and thoughts.

For more ways to handle stress and make progress in your writers' goals, sign up for Dr. Wadhwa's informative, engaging online classes starting September 6th. See www.coffeehouseforwriters.com
Okay, Pen & Prosper readers, how has stress affected your writing, or is it a non-issue? What clever ways have you found to combat it? Do tell...

How to Get the "Scoop" When you Have an Aversion to the News!

It simply boggles my mom's brain, that as a “professional” writer and columnist, I rarely watch the news. She often kids that if the world were coming to an end, or the country were on alert for some type of disaster or attack, I would truly be in a serious pickle!

Conversely, she watches it religiously, about 2-3 times a day.
For me it's definitely an “acquired taste.” I don't dig digesting daily news accounts of crimes and doom and gloom. Not to mention, the reporting mantra of “if it bleeds it leads”, speaks to how we as a society are often drawn to sensationalism and “train wreck” viewing.

I've found too, that as your typical creative artist type, I'm much too sensitive to disengage.
Whenever I do tune in, the heartbreaking stories and graphic images often bring me to tears, or makes me want to donate money to questionable causes, or pray, or long for former years and simpler times. (I'm betting it's probably the same for you too).

Still, as a person who's paid regularly to be “informed” and expressive on a variety of topics and themes, I must stay in the know.

Here are a few ways I accomplish this and maintain my optimism, and you can too.
Read on as this journalist “reveals her sources”.

For “feel good” stories---I love watching Good Morning America, (thanks mom) for their reporting balance. You'll be exposed to human interests stories like an eighty-year old returning to college to get her first degree. Or see profiles of “accidental entrepreneurs” living their dreams. It's a great way to start the day.

Celebrity Gossip---Want the latest on Mel Gibson's melt down? Curious about Kate plus eight? Eager to find out who's hot and who's not at the box office? You'll want to touch base with Barbara Walters and the girls at the popular talk show, “The View.” You may not always agree with Elizabeth's perspective, but you will be informed and entertained.

Health and Fitness topics are handled by medical practitioners with a great deal of expertise and warm bedside manners, daily at a show aptly titled “The Doctors”. Produced by Dr. Phil's son, it covers a variety of tips and timely reports on how to eat better, look younger, and realize the benefits of preventative maintenance. Get the updates on scientific studies and medical advancements too.

Fashionista Finds---If your focus is helping women to dress for success for less, or giving the 4-1-1- on new signature fragrances by Beyonce or Elizabeth Taylor, check out Oprah, or the program “Mirror Mirror”. Consider them the “go-to-gurus” for looking good.

Word to the wise--As times and channels may differ, depending upon your viewing area, you'll want to check your local listings for details.


Don't let an aversion to watching the news keep you in the dark about events of the day.
After all, the more you learn, the more you'll earn. Just be creative and follow these often overlooked leads.


What's your take on this topic?


Image Credit: Salvatore Vuono

"Continuing Education" For Writers?

In today's economic climate, many of us recognize the need to further our education for career advancement, and to increase both our options and our "bottom" lines.
Even President Obama has deemed it a worthy cause by making college scholarship dollars available to moms, as an incentive to learn more so they can earn more!

But, oddly enough, rarely is the same regard given to creative careers.
I'm baffled by the fact that not enough writers feel the need to take classes, learn from mentors, or make ongoing efforts to sharpen their skills.

Is it "writer's ego"?

I say this not to be cruel, but to be candid.
As a former senior editor of a regional publication, I can't even count the number of articles and essays I would come across with improper grammar, incorrect spelling, and issues with subject/verb agreement.

In fact, once when I identified this developmental need to a fellow writer and Blogger, (to try to help), it was met with denial and harsh words on her part. Ouch!

But, as I see it, anytime we make our words available for "public consumption" we owe it to our audiences to put our best foot forward, to understand their needs, and to respect their time.

Wouldn't you agree?

Sure, nobody's perfect--myself included!

So, here's the $64,000 dollar question: How do you keep your skills sharp in order to keep your readers engaged, entertained and enlightened?
And...Can a writer ever be so advanced that he/she outgrows the need for learning more or being mentored?

Special note: If you'd like to hone your craft, earn more, and take your writing career to the next level, classes offered by coffeehouseforwriters.com start September 6th! They're presented online and can be taken in the convenience of your own home. With corporate downsizing and the advent of the Internet, writing is becoming increasingly competitive. It's no longer okay to be just "okay".
So, I'll be at the Coffeehouse sharing tips and techniques for today's writer.
I Hope you'll join me for a "stimulating experience." Register early. :-)

Image Credit: Simon Howden

The Secrets to Making Your EQuery Stand Out Amid the Clutter

This is a guest post by Nikola Hartmann

Email queries are fast replacing those sent by surface mail. While some editors still prefer the traditional approach, many publications, especially those online, only accept digital.

Why?
It’s easy, cheap, and convenient for you to instantly send your submissions to just about any editor’s desk. A process that use to take what seemed like an eternity, now takes mere seconds. Editors like it too because they quickly determine if you have potential.
The good news is that writing a first rate query is not difficult. Especially once you know the winning format…

Think of your query like a sales letter. You’re selling yourself and your work. Use these tips to make sure your first impression isn’t a disaster!

Check the Writer’s Guidelines. This may seem silly to mention, but … then again, maybe not. Remember, not all publications accept e-queries; those that do post where to send them. It won’t do much good to send your proposal to Mary Clark in sales, if Mary Clarkson is in charge of submissions.

Subject Matters. Don’t leave this section blank! Your email will be deleted, unread. It’s best to lead with the word, “Query” followed by a three to four word description of your proposal; e.g. Query: New Skin Cancer Threat.

Keep it Classy. Got to love those bouncy emoticons and phonetic spellings. But this is not the time to show your “fun” side. The number one complaint of editors is that writers submit work riddled with grammatical and spelling errors. Make your spell checker your BFF. :-) Also, stick with time honored greetings and closings: Mr., Ms., Sincerely, Respectfully. You’re a professional. Make sure your work shows it.

Editor’s Choice. Again, this is not the place to show your personality nor write your dissertation. Editors like short, simple, and tight. Grab their attention with a killer hook; tell how you’re going to write the article, and what it covers. Seal the deal with two links to your work, then close with your signature block (name, address, phone, Email address, website).
Cyberspace makes it super easy to send your queries all over the globe. Just remember to check, check, and re-check your work before you click “send.”

What are your thoughts on e-queries? Love them, like them, or hate them?

Are You "Google" Worthy?

There's a popular song that states "you're nobody until somebody loves you."
That's old news.
Today it seems that you're nobody until you have an online identity through Google.

It's true.  Folks conduct Internet "background checks" for romantic connections, employment purposes, business deals, and even to snoop on your personal and professional affiliations.

Agents use it to see your publishing history, your "following" and the quality of your body of work. Your competition even uses it to see what you're up to and how to keep up with you!

This discovery came to me some time ago when I received an Email from a writer friend of mine living in Tennessee. He told me had Googled me to see what projects I had been working on, and was impressed that I had my hands in so many different things!  "I see your work has even been translated into several languages, bravo!" He said.

I thought he was just pulling my leg. Different languages? 
So I Googled my name with quotation marks.  Sure enough, there it was.
My short stories written years ago, for Simon and Schuster's anthology series "Chocolate for a Woman's Heart", appeared to have been in Spanish and Japanese.  How cool!

And, might I add, when it comes to this Google thing, I've even gotten out-of-state clients due to my Google-ability. (Is that a word?):-)
Indeed, Google is the "new black."

How about you?  When others look up your name online what does it reveal?
Are you linked or referred to on others' websites?

Do you Blog?  Are your postings "tasteful"?
Do you have a diverse online portfolio?  Any online complaints or war of words?  These are things to consider.


Here are 10 ways to become more Google worthy:

1. Get a life!  I mean a writing life. Post pieces to online forums,
article directories, or Blogs.  Have something to say, and say it well.
Be the writer others aspire to be like and want to know more about.

2. Get a website or Blog. No matter what your level of experience, every writer benefits from having a quality, online web page or blog. You can get feedback from visitors, hone your writing skills, speak your mind, and showcase your talent.

3. Consider asking friends or writers who are more established to allow you to link to them and ride on their coat tail.

4. Get out and get going! Participate in public readings, library workshops, and other events in your local area-- these activities often lead to online coverage.

5. Send out press releases to let the media know what you're up to.

6. Post reviews on books, music, and movies to the many online sites seeking your two cents.

7. Join online writers'groups. There is strength in numbers!

8. Write a weekly or monthly column. I currently have several.
In fact, TheDabblingMum.Com has a nice opportunity for greater exposure.
They will (upon approval), publish quality columns and newsletters that you create, that are not widely circulated on the Internet, as a part of their forum.

9. Join some of the networking websites like Linkedin and Facebook. Get connected!

10. Periodically Google yourself to see what's out there.  Sometimes there are inaccuracies in what's posted, sometimes there may be some plagiarism going on with your work or unauthorized usage.
And sometimes you'll smile at the cool comments people make about how your work has impacted them. 
And at the end of the day, isn't that what this writing thing is all about? 
Here’s hoping you have oogles of Googles!

Pen and Prosper welcomes your comments on this post. Agree or disagree?

Image Credit: Graeme Weatherston

Four Score!

Pen and Prosper continues in its series
of bringing you book-mark worthy Blogs!
Here's the 4-1-1 on what I've found to be interesting and engaging around the Web.


1. Alternaview---Tired of cookie-cutter content? Alternaview, authored by an attorney by the name of Sibyl, provides food for thought on an array of topics including, (but not limited to):
self-improvement, relationships, society and culture, and positive thinking.
The cool part about her commentary and her "counsel", is that it does not always reflect "mainstream" views. Her approach teaches without preaching. Rather, she states her position, while allowing her readers to arrive at theirs through the "evidence" she presents. To quote a popular expression, "an intelligent mind is an open one."

2. The Letter Writing Revolution---In this technological,
fast-paced world in which we live, how rare is it to receive a hand-written letter? I'd same it's becoming about as rare as steak. So I was pretty pleased to see that the creator, (Julie), has cleverly engaged in a movement of sorts to revitalize the lost art of letter writing. How cool! Check it out for yourself, and see if it doesn't inspire you to pen a note of hello to someone with whom you've lost touch over the years, or perhaps a letter of apology. Now's the time.

3. Workawesome---Whether you work a 9 to 5 gig, or toil from your home office, you'll find tips, tools, and techniques to make your experience better here. Not only does this site boast quality content, there are multiple, daily updates to keep you motivated and moving forward!

4. EvelynParham.com---Devoted to healthy living, Evelyn invites us to "become a healthier you." Her content is full of helpful hints and how-tos on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, not just through food choices but life choices as well. My favorite post is on how to find ways to eat more fruit daily. In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "health is our greatest wealth". Kudos to Evelyn in her efforts to remind us of this!

So kick back and sip a cup of your favorite brew and enjoy!

Image Credit dj codrin

So, readers, what do you think? Know any of these Blogs or any other boast worthy spots? Do share!