October is Diversity Awareness Month!

I can't speak for anyone else. But my life is greatly enriched by the many variety of friends and folks that are a part of my day to day existence.

Among my "inner circle" I have buddies of all different ethnicities, religious backgrounds, vocations and educational levels. And hopefully you do too.

Which is why I felt compelled in some way to honor and embrace October, which is officially Diversity Awareness month.

For more details, feel free to read my post at www.Jobacle.com on October 22nd, for an in-depth look at this special time of year.

As they say, "variety is the spice of life."
And as creative artists and "messengers," we would do well to broaden our horizons and enrich the lives of others by not being too "narrowly" focused or intolerant of views and expressions that are different than our own.

Here are a few ways to honor diversity as writers and bloggers!

1. Periodically visit and read Blogs that are outside of your niche. And leave a comment.

2. If you write non-fiction, try penning a poem, or a food review, or a fictional piece for publication or as a post on your blog.

3. Go to a book signing for an author of which you are unfamiliar.

4. Get out and meet other writers in your area---be it at a local coffee shop, a writers' meeting, or an open mic night. Each one reach one!

And in the spirit of this month and what it stands for, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank EACH OF YOU for your support and for the rich tapestry woven across many miles, regions and countries!

I am proud to say that my "followers" and friends are a testament to what the real world should mirror.

A quick look at the beautiful faces and images reflect Black, White, and too many ethnicities and races and regions to mention. Some are writers, some are crafters. Some are stay at home moms. Some are newbies, others are well published authors. There are men and women. On my "block" are teachers, editors, poets, interior decorators, gardeners, entrepreneurs, and others.

According to my Blog's analytics, followers hail from the U.S., U.K., Russia, India, The Netherlands, and South Korea--to name a few.

You rock!

I even have a fan who is, (as she describes herself) a 14 year old who is 200% Irish. :-)

How do I know? Because I visit your sites as well. And when time permits, I try to leave comments to say hello. ;-)

To each of you I bid a happy Diversity Awareness Month and a happy and safe Halloween!

Please share any thoughts you might have on this post.

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Does Your Blog Suffer the "Blahs"?

It's a delicate subject.
One that even the best of friends don't discuss.
In fact, some avoid it like the plague.
Nobody likes to be the bearer of bad news---and well, maybe you're thinking it's not even your place, right?

Still, I'm willing to bet that somewhere in your round of travels across the Net, you've encountered a blog that suffers the "blahs".
Come on, be honest. :-)
Perhaps it's a newbie who lacks direction, or a friend who has a dynamic personality in person, but comes across as lackluster on line. Or it can be someone who constantly dotes on attention with his posts, (look at ME, ME, ME), but provides no real take-away value for visitors to take away.
Or perhaps, God forbid...it's you. :-)

Are you with me here?

Much like people, Blogs are supposed to have "personality" people! :-)
Regardless as to whether it's devoted to cooking, the craft of writing, or crocheting. It needs to have some "flava'". Hello?

Or look at it this way. Your Blog is your online signature that uniquely distinguishes you from the other millions of folks in the blogosphere.

The problem often times is a lack of objectivity. Let's face it, whether it's our car, our homes, or something we've written, there's typically a blind spot that prevents us from seeing it as others do.

Don't despair.
In the words of Dr. Phil, "the first step to correcting a problem is identifying it."

With this in mind, here's how to tell if your Blog is suffering the "blahs". Even if your best friend won't tell you. :-)

1. You've been blogging for 12 months or more, and the same 2 or 3 people are the only ones commenting on your work.

2. There's no growth. Your followers have not increased, nor has your span of influence.

3. You have a high "bounce rate". In other words, visitors come but they don't "connect". They click on to your site, but leave shortly after.

4. You fall asleep when posting your own posts.

5. You're unsure about your focus. Word! If you're clueless, chances are that your potential audiences will be as well.


Well, folks there you have it. Agree or disagree? Make some noise!
Here's a bonus. If the response is good, in my next post I'll address how to avoid the doldrums. Stay tuned...

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All Publishing Credits Are Not Considered Equally!

Remember back in college days how some classes were assessed as having greater “weight” or value than others?

Sometimes that designation depended on the number of hours and days it was offered, the complexity of the class, whether or not the class had a “lab” component, and whether it was advanced level or basic.

Ultimately, the more credits you accumulated the quicker you graduated.
Well, a similar system applies in the field of publishing. Beware---all publishing credits are not created equally. This unwritten rule seems to be unknown by many new or “unsavvy” scribes who crank out work on the regular without the recognition or monetary rewards they desire.

Take for instance by friend “Valeria”. Every month or so she floods my Email inbox with articles she’s had published by the online content mills or small blogs that virtually have neither screening process nor credibility.

I don’t know for certain, but if I were to hazard a guess, I’d say that she devotes hours that would almost be the equivalent of a work week on
a 9 to 5 gig.
This all in the hopes of being validated and seeing her byline.
There’s an easier way.

As a veteran professional writer and editor, I can attest that publishing success is just as much about strategy as ability. With this in mind, here are some pointers on how to elevate your status, get paid, and make the most of your submission strategy.

1.Have a game plan---What are your short and long term goals? Would you like to one day publish a book? Pen a column? Freelance full time? Your goals will determine your goal plan.

2.Diversify your portfolio---There’s nothing wrong with the occasional article to free article directories or small niche Blogs, particularly when starting out. But keep in mind that your career should show the ability to write about different topics, in different publications, and should show some progression and versatility.

3.Research before you submit—Increase your odds of success by doing your homework. No matter how eloquent your writing, if it’s sent to a publication that is a mismatch in terms of editorial content, you’ve wasted your time and theirs.

4.Keep in mind that quality is more important than quantity in the publishing business. Though there are exceptions to the rule, here are some general guidelines:

•A publishing credit in a paid publication trumps that of a non-paying.
•A national publication credit is generally more impressive than a local one.
•Publication in a non-paying, but well regarded magazine is better than that of a content mill. A good example would be Small Business CEO Magazine, (which at the time of this writing was a non-paying publication), but very well written by industry experts and offers a good degree of visibility for your efforts.
•Publication in an anthology is more valuable than self-publishing.

5.Whenever possible, maximize your efforts by sending out simultaneous submissions. This allows for less waiting time and more exposure for your work.

Keep these five tips in mind and you’ll make more money and move forward faster in 2010!

Do you consider all publishing credits the same, or do you value some more than others? Is this new information for you or old news?

This (my) article was previously published at Funds for Writers website.
Image Credit: Renjith Krishnan

What was the Defining Moment in Your Writing Career?

I am a Writer!
a guest post by Stephanie J. Gates

I am a writer. I AM a writer. I am a WRITER.
I write this because it helps me claim what is rightfully mine. I sometimes have difficulty owning the title of writer because somewhere stuck in my head is this definition of a writer as some lofty, unattainable position.

I can only be a writer if I’m famous, or if my profession says that I’m a writer (screenwriter, playwright, speech writer etc.) And I don’t know where this thinking comes from or why it’s been so hard to dislodge it from my brain. Even though I have published pieces, and I’ve taught writing to both adults and children ownership escaped me until now.

Only recently have I moved into the home of the writer; before that I was merely a renter passing through the house but not quite settling into the space. But what’s especially weird is that I’ve lived in this house for as long as I can remember; I just didn’t own it.

My friends and family describe me as a writer, and sometimes it still sounds strange to my ears. My oldest childhood friend can still remember the story I wrote in sixth grade about an upside down world. In eighth grade I took second place in a citywide essay contest. I find writing in everything. I’m always looking, listening for the story, for something to write about. So, I am a writer. I write, rewrite and write again. In my head, on paper, on the computer I am always composing.

I am a writer because it is what I do.

Pen and Prosper scribes, when did you KNOW that you were a writer? Was it with your first byline? Your first paid assignment? Or the moment you felt the inescapable rush of penning your thoughts for public view? Do tell...

BIO:
Stephanie J. Gates is an educator and freelance writer. Her work has appeared in various online and print publications.
Publishing credits include: Being Single Magazine, N'DIGO, Mahogany Magazine, and Black Eye Peas for the Soul.

Cat Got Your Tongue? 5 Cool Reasons to Leave Blog Comments

Whether it's for entertainment, enlightenment, or intrigue, most Bloggers and those who "consume" them, can attest that these popular "online journals" provide a certain value and enhancement to our online experiences. True?

In fact, if you're like I am, you check back regularly throughout the week to see what's up in the world of your favorite Blog hosts to gain wisdom from their words, support through their experiences, or perhaps even ideas to address in future posts.

In fact it can be a bit addictive like the soap operas. :-)
And with all that activity and enjoyment, it only stands to reason that you might want to give something back.

Why?
Because most bloggers share their time, talents and resources with us without charge or obligation. And you've gotta' admit that that's pretty cool!

Sure, time can sometimes be a factor, depending upon how many sites you visit on the regular. But a brief "pat on the back" will take less time than a commercial break. :-) Word!

With this in mind, here are 5 reasons to minimally leave comments at your "favorite" sites.


1. Because it's free! That's right it won't cost you nada, nilch, nuthin'.
2. Because it creates good karma! Really. Quite often I find that if I leave a thoughtful comment at some one else's site, they in turn leave one at mine. And so on and so on...
3. Because you can get "discovered"! I kid you not. Some of my favorite blogs that I enjoy today, I actually began "following" as a result of comments left at other sites. So make some noise!
4. Because it helps bloggers to decide the direction of their blogs. Yep. Comments help us to assess our most popular posts and topics, they help us to determine the best days and frequency of posts, and also the types of audiences we are attracting. So help us to help you by expressing your thoughts and preferences.
5. Because comments can help create traffic to your own site! Which provides a win-win situation for all!

And as an added bonus, you just might make someone's day!
Here's a case in point. Some time ago, I got a comment on one of my Blog posts that left me tickled pink! Of course I am ever-so-grateful for my growing list of followers, and related comments. But this was different...

"Your thoughts are amazing! I find what you write is inspiring."

It seems that a young lady by the name of "Katie", who is just a freshman in high school was reading regularly. Turns out that this cool kid wants to some day become a journalist, and she just wanted to let me know how much insight she was getting from my Blog! She even thanked me.
Get outta' here! I was so touched.
And I've read her Blog; she's pretty darn good already!

My point? We never know just who we might be influencing or elevating through our words.

Are you with me here?

Well, that's my "public service message" for today.
Do you agree or disagree with this position?

Leave a comment. Stand up and be counted! :-)

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The Creative Connection...

FOUR MUST-HAVE FRIENDS NO WRITER SHOULD BE WITHOUT!


“I get by with a little help from my friends.”

No doubt about it, writing is a solitary, do-it-yourself profession. Unlike other careers, you can’t get ahead through office politics, a good support staff, nepotism, affirmative action, or bedding the boss.

Success comes solely to those who work hard, have a talent for the written word, are business savvy, and have the determination to go the distance. Of course there are a few “bad writers” that slip through the cracks, but they are indeed in the minority. Talent aside, sometimes, as the famous expression goes, “it’s not what you know, but who you know that counts.”

And that’s why it behooves you to choose your friends wisely! I admit, I have been truly blessed by the creative Gods to know folks that make my job just a little bit easier!

They would be the equivalent of the supporting cast members of an award-winning movie or sitcom. Here, (drum roll please...), they appear in their
respective roles, not necessarily in the order of importance.

* THE FRIENDLY LIBRARIAN---- My friend Deb holds the position of Head Librarian at a major library in my city. When I’m pressed for time, or don’t know which web site to use as a resource for my research, she’s the person I call. A recent S.O.S. to her regarding statistics needed for a book proposal, gave me the “411” on specific titles listed in Books in Print. Her extensive knowledge and willingness to be on my “team” helps me to be a winner in my creative pursuits.

* THE LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER--- Picture the possibilities.
You have an article that would be a sure sell with accompanying photos. You have a book signing that you’d like to capture shots of for your scrapbook or
marketing materials. You need a headshot for your web page or book cover. And he needs to be “Johnny on the Spot”: that’s my guy Hurley.

* THE BEEN THERE DONE THAT WRITER--- My writer buddy, William, has been successfully published and is even a best selling author! We’ve actually never met in person, but became pen pals about 8 years ago, when he sent a letter of praise to my editor regarding my work. When it comes to publishing, he knows the ropes! I get insider’s tips that you can’t find in any book! It wasn’t deliberate on either of our parts, but I’ve found that establishing an affiliation with someone who is a little further down the literary path than you are just makes good business sense. And to my good fortune, he’s a real cool, down to earth guy as well!

* THE CONSUMATE CHEERLEADER! I can count on my Mom when periodic rejections convince me that I’d be better off joining the circus! In addition to being a big fan, she’s also brutally honest. Every writer needs that. I know that no matter what, she believes in my talent and wishes the best for me.

So if your goal in 2010 is to become more widely published, consider expanding your social network, and discover the many benefits of the creative connection!

If you know someone who has been a key player in your success, why not send them this post along with a word of thanks.


What's your take on this topic? Any "friend" that I forgot?

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What's On Your Book Shelf?

After doing a bit of yard work yesterday, I found myself in need of a little rejuvenation.

(And by the way, my rose bushes are blooming beautifully!) I only wish I had planted them in previous years.
Anyhow...
I decided to take a quick trip to a local "quality" thrift store in my area; for me it's relaxing. And for those who may be turning up their nose at the thought, let me tell you this...
I kid you not---I have the most extensive book collection. It almost rivals that of a real library! And the cool thing is that when I score my reads at the thrift store, I get rock-bottom prices. Spending less means I can buy more. And that's just plain smart in my book!

For example, I bought The Purpose Driven Life, Dr. Phil's Relationship Rescue, Gordon Parks's poetry and photography book, and several of the "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff" titles for less than 10 bucks!

And I'm talking about in excellent condition, some even brand spankin' new, folks.

A point of reference...
Since childhood, I've always loved to read. I thank my mom to this day for cultivating a love of literature and learning, which has definitely served me well over the years--in college and in my career.

In fact, as an avid reader, it's not unusual to find me reading and thumbing through multiple books at the same time, depending upon my mood.

Here's this week's round-up of what I'm reading and what I recommend:

***Don't Sweat the Small Stuff (for women)---It must have been by divine intervention that I happened upon this treasure. Since I'm already a big fan of the series, I was drawn immediately to this title written by Kristine Carlson, the wife of best-selling author Richard Carlson. Wow, what an "I" opener! If I were stuck on a desert, and could only have 2 or 3 books, I'd choose this one. But then again, I guess that most of the advice would be inapplicable out there on that desert! Anyhow, it's a must read for moving forward with greater peace and purpose for women. It's the best advice available in book form for females (that I've come across). Here are a few chapters to check out: Don't fight fire with fire; Stop comparing yourself to the media measuring stick; Don't get over committee-D.
I must say that I liked it even a little better than "Simple Abundance", which is an awesome read!

***By the Waters (A Collection of Prayers for Everyday)---by Ellyn Sanna---The writing is eloquent and the photos are scenic and soothing. This read allows us to look at the connection between quenching our physical and spiritual thirst so that we may live in balance, beauty, and in awareness of our daily blessings. The nice thing too is that it doesn't have chapters so you can approach it in any order you'd like. It's also a great gift to give to a friend or loved one.

***Creating Affluence---by Deepak Chopra---I dig Deepak. He's (deep). Dating back to when he came out with "Ageless Body, Timeless Mind", I've been fascinated by his work. And you will be too. Though this one is a little more abstract than I'd like, there are still tools and techniques you'll find useful in developing a prosperous mindset.

What's on your book shelf? Do you think that being an avid reader helps writers to be better at their craft? What's your take?

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Writing Right!---A Guest Post by Nikola Hartmann

”Every Student Should Own a Dictionary.”

You can imagine my humiliation when I read those words on a report I’d hastily written for a high school chemistry class. And though this incident occurred roughly 30 years ago, the memory still makes me cringe.
Since then, I always take the time to proofread my work three, four, and even five times. And still I occasionally overlook a misspelled word or use one in the wrong context.

In my travels around the web and even in print, I notice that I’m not alone in my struggle to conquer the comma or defeat the dangling participial.
We, writers sometimes forget that using our word processor’s spell checker is not the same as editing. I love technology as much as the next girl. But when it comes to finalizing my work, I prefer the old-fashioned way.

Here is a simple guide to help you catch potential “hiccups” before they find their way into print.
i.e. or e.g? Know the Difference.
i.e. is Latin for id est. It means that is or in other words. For example: “The standard rate, i.e., $25.00 is still in use.”

The abbreviation e.g. stands for the Latin words exempli gratia and means for example. As in, “Don’t forget to pack your toiletries, e.g., toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, deodorant.”
Commonly Misspelled Words.

achieve
caffeine
guarantee
handkerchief
jewelry
liaison
perseverance
rhythm
silhouette
visible

10 Everyday Words That Are Often Misused.
Word Meaning

all ready--- prepared
already--- before now

continual--- repeated
continuous--- constant

desert---- dry, arid land
dessert--- sweet food eaten after a meal

discreet--- careful
discrete--- distinct

eminent---- well-known
imminent--- about to happen

fortuitous---- happen by chance (not necessarily fortunate)
fortunate-- lucky

stationary--- still
stationery-- writing supplies

“Puffspeak”. Avoid using inflated words and jargon-filled expressions.
Puffspeak Conversion

facility--- building
downsizing--- layoffs
impact(v)--- affect
finalize--- finish
methodology--- method
upwardly mobile-- successful
optimal--- best
inoperative--- broken
bottom line--- result

Long-Winded Expressions. Most wordy phrases can be trimmed to two or three words.

Instead of--- Use

at this point and time--- now
by means of--- by
due to the fact--- because
sue is a woman who--- she
rarely ever (double talk)--- rarely
in spite of the fact--- although
with the exception of--- except
all of--- all

Don’t risk losing credibility by submitting so-so work. Check out these free resources when you need help.
Guide to Grammar and Writing
How to Use There, Their and They’re


Any comments on this piece? Did you learn something new?
Do tell. :-)


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3 Things Bloggers Can Learn From Dancing With the Stars!

It's Monday night.
And in typical fashion, I'm sprawled across my bed with a big bag of chips and a steamy cup of relaxing herbal tea, glued to the boob tube.

My weekly fix?
Dancing with the stars.
In fact, if you've been a fan of my Blog for longer than a minute, surely you know that I go goo-goo over the popular entertainment shows like "Dancing with the Stars" and "American Idol."

Ironically, though I'm an introvert by nature, when I was younger I fancied a life in the entertainment arena.

Anyhow...

The dancer in me digs the dance moves and the razz-ma-tazz! The teacher in me attentively takes notes for lessons to impart.
And here I share them with you for your enlightenment and entertainment.

Here's what today's Blogger can learn from this popular show.

1. Competition doesn't have to be "cut-throat". Though many bloggers won't admit it, they compete! And there's nothing wrong with that. In fact, blogging by its very nature is competitive. Whether it's deliberate or not. But just like the contestants on the show, it doesn't mean that we can't have fun, be supportive, and play fair. :-)

2. Criticism comes with the territory. Take it in stride and keep dancin'. Recently, one of my favorite performers, (Michael Bolton) felt that comments made by judge Bruno were "inappropriate and disrespectful." My take? The judge certainly could have been a little more tactful in his approach, but I don't think he really meant any real harm. :-) Take the "high road" when possible.

3. Sometimes success comes from coming out of your "comfort zone." Whether it's addressing a controversial topic for which you are passionate, venturing into new territory, or guest posting at another site. Feel the fear and move forward!

Well, that's my take on this topic. I've gotta go now--phone lines are gonna open pretty soon and I've gotta vote!

Any thoughts on this? Do share...

Image: Francesco Marino

Quotes For Quality Living!

I've always been a big fan of quotes. They're like motivational "quickies" that move us forward, or minimally cause needed reflection. Not to mention, for writers they provide an array of creative possibilities--as writing prompts, poetry slants, contest guidelines, etc.

Today I'll share some of my favorite, and some that are just darn interesting in nature. :-) And what better way to start the week?

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." Dr. Martin Luther King
"A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs. It's jolted by every pebble on the road." Henry Ward Beecher
"Sometimes God will shake you up to move you forward."
Jennifer Brown Banks
"Peace is its own reward." Monhandas Gandhi
"There's never a "good reason" for spreading bad gossip."
Jennifer Brown Banks
There is no where you can go and only be with people who are like you. Give it up." Bernice Johnson Reagon
"If you are not leaning, no one will ever let you down." Dr. Robert Anthony
"Every exit is an entry somewhere else." Tom Stoppard
"It's better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all."
"We teach people how to treat us by the things we accept." Dr. Phil

What's your favorite quote of note? Do you find quotes to be useful tools in your writing?

Image Credit: Paul