3 Ways Around Writer's Block Guest Post

By: Kitty Holman

One of the biggest things that affects us freelance writers and professional bloggers is writer's block, as many of you are probably aware. All over the Internet, I've seen some crazy tips for defeating writer's block. I've read about writers who take showers when they get blocked, while others take a break and go exercise. I've even read about writers who eat chocolate and peanut butter when they can't produce. I can appreciate the novelty of some of these methods, and I bet some of them truly work; however, I insist that the worst thing a writer can do when blocked is leave the computer or writing desk.

I believe that writer's block is actually a result of a frame of mind or an attitude that sometimes writers fall into. Because of this, I think the way to get unblocked is simply to change the focus of your mind. Instead of worrying about being blocked and how to fix the block, instead worry about your writing and how you can accomplish your creative goals. Focus on the positive! Don't get up from the desk! Instead, you should work through some pre-writing exercises. These will help refocus your mind and get you writing in no time.

The following are my three favorite pre-writing exercises. They are very basic, but they get the job done:

1. Brainstorm

When I brainstorm, I really storm. I try to come up with as long a list of topic ideas as possible within five minutes of hard work. I usually brainstorm with a pen and paper, because I think the action of writing by hand helps focus my brain on the task at hand. I can't get distracted by the internet or other applications on the computer. Brainstorm should be frenzied and fast-paced. You shouldn't have time to think about your ideas; instead, you should just write as they come out. You can work on the list later, after you have had some time to think about each idea critically. For now, though, you are simply trying to create a list of blog post ideas.

2. Freewrite

Freewriting is perhaps the most useful way of getting words into a draft, and often these words form the basis of your new post. When you free write, open a new file, cover up your computer screen or turn off your monitor, and set your timer for five or ten minutes. This next step is incredibly important: write nonstop for the entire freewriting session. You must never stop moving your fingers over your keyboard. Just let whatever ideas you have about the topic in your head to come out on the page. You don't want to edit these ideas or these sentences as you write them, because you just want the momentum to let you write for as long as possible. This is the best way, I think, of breaking out of writer's block: just write!

3. Mapping

Once I have my list brainstormed, and some ideas written in my freewriting session, I can usually begin to feel the creative juices flowing for my post idea. At this point, it's helpful for me to try to visualize how my post will work out, so I turn to some mapping pre-writing. You can use mapping to build out how you think your ideas connect. Put your main topic in the center, and then draw lines out from it to the subtopics and other points you wish to make. In a way, these visualizations will help you create the different paragraphs and sections in your post.

By-line:
Kitty Holman, regularly writes on the topics of nursing colleges. She welcomes your comments at her email Id: kitty.holman20@gmail.com.

Calling Phenomenal Female Bloggers...

March is Women's History Month. And Pen and Prosper is delighted to highlight the collective strengths and gifts of fierce female bloggers everywhere, through its "Phenomenal Woman" series. Share your stories of strength, struggle, or success and embrace your "15 minutes of fame." Submit your works, (poems, essays, or articles to Jenniferwriter@yahoo.com by March 1st. Please include a short Bio and one link.
Let's inspire and empower.

Bloggers Beware! Should blogging have boundaries?

Should blogging have boundaries?
Many creative artists would argue that due to 1st amendment rights, we are each guaranteed freedom of speech, and that as fully grown folks, we ought to be able to say what we mean, and mean what we say. True?

In fact, this fundamental principle is what makes this great country of ours great.
Some might even argue that the whole purpose of having a Blog is to be able to vent freely and express views without control or editorial dictates.

Others might contend that blogging, like any other form of public communication should have boundaries and appropriateness.

No matter what side of the fence you're on, you should know: even freedom of speech ain't entirely free!

Take for instance, a recent incident where a teacher, (who is reported to have "let her hair down" by penning profanity-laced comments on her blog about her lazy students), was suspended and could face further repercussions for her conduct.

While a popular blogger and buddy of mine also shares on his site how he temporarily "fell from grace" as a pastor, when some of his posts were displeasing to "the powers that be."

And who can forget a few years back when the "Dixie Chicks" got their wings clipped for their disparaging (public) comments concerning the president? Ouch.

These cautionary tales serve to remind us that with every freedom comes a responsibility. Or does it?

It appears that this is becoming a hot topic in this age of social media, as employers often argue that what their workers say online is "their business", because it's a reflection of their company and their corporate image.

But do they have a right to silence individuals' thoughts and actions outside of work?
That's the $64,000 dollar question! And the stakes are high.

What do you think? I pose the question to you, Pen and Prosper readers---should blogging have boundaries? Why/why not?


Image Keattikorn

What's Your Blogging Style?

Have you ever noticed in your weekly reading, that no matter what the niche, all bloggers typically fall into certain blogging styles?

I have.
Much like Zodiac signs serve to distinguish certain personality traits and practices, blogging styles dictate individual approaches and techniques to this popular medium.

For the record, none is necessarily better comparatively. They each have certain benefits and challenges, based upon my experience as a Blogologist, (I made that term up.) :-)

It should also be noted that some folks fall into more categories than one.

Knowing your type can help you to hone your voice, define your goals, navigate your path, and distinguish yourself from the pack.

So get in where you fit in!

Here are the seven most common blogging styles and categories:

1. Teachers---These bloggers have a knack for providing know-how. They typically pen posts on how to do things, based upon their experience and/or expertise. They love sharing what they know to help others to live better, make better decisions, and to shorten readers' learning curves. I would be an example.
Many years ago, when I worked as a Senior Analyst, (in my former life), my friend Helen told me I should be a teacher. I didn't take her seriously at the time, but now I have found validity in her words. ;-)

2. Humorists/Satirists---Anybody here remember the late Erma Bombeck? She was a favorite of mine. These folks are just plain funny. Even when they're addressing serious topics, they have a tendency to make you laugh and smile. An example would be P.S. Jones of Diaryofamadfreelancer.com/

3. Story Weavers---Some bloggers possess the gift of telling stories that impart important lessons and draw from everyday experiences to which most of us can relate. They are engaging, philosophical and insightful. Bryan Thompson at Elevation Life.Com is a master at it.

4. Sharers---Individuals in this category pride themselves in exposing others to valuable resources, links, and goodies around the Web. They are popular for their generosity of spirit and good karma. Karen Lange over at Write Now.Com fills the bill on this one.

5. Geeks---As the name implies, geeks are good with technical information, gadgets and gizmos. I'm truly impressed with their ability to grasp technical concepts that "go over my head." Any geeks in the house?

6. Thought-Provokers---Many times these individuals will express opinions that are contrary to conventional thinking, or pose a tough question that causes you to do some reflection and self-inventory to arrive at your own personal truths. My blogging buddy Sibyl, at Alternaview.com epitomizes this.

7. Motivators---Consider them the ultimate cheerleaders! They are encouraging, inspiring and uplifting. The perfet example would be Evelyn at Evelynparham.com/

So, I wanna' know. What's your type? Thoughts?

Image Boaz Yiftach

Groovy Movies for Valentine's Day...to "inspire" your creativity

Whether you've been blessed to be hit by Cupid's arrow, have sworn off of love, are in a "pending status", or consider yourself "Very Married" this Valentine's Day, I wish you love, peace and joy!

And depending on where you hang your hat in terms of geography, you may or may not be able to get out and have a special night out on the town.
In fact, if you're battling brutal weather, (like I am), staying in doors with a good movie and some spirits of your choice, can be a pretty sweet way to unwind and enjoy the holiday.

With this being the case, here are a few of my favorites that I recommend, and who knows, they just might be the inspiration for your next blog post, essay, or poem.

In no particular order, I present Jen's top 10 in groovy movies for Valentine's Day.

1. Cyrus---Marisa Tomei is a single mom trying to re-enter the world of dating as she deals with some "baggage" that makes for an interesting story line. Sure to stir up an array of emotions, this movie is funny, touching and addresses a very relevant social theme of our times. I'd give it 4 stars! You will too.

2. Must Love Dogs---Okay, besides the fact that I've had a "secret" celebrity crush on John Cusack for many years, this is a well told tale of all the ups and downs of love, online dating, family dynamics and lessons in letting go and moving forward. And for anyone who has ever gone on a blind date, there is much to relate.

3. Bridges of Madison County---An oldie but goodie, the story line unfolds like a good book and keeps you spell-bound until the end. Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep have incredible chemistry and deliver stellar performances.

4. Serendipity--- If you believe in destiny and fate, you'll enjoy John Cusack, and his magical performance, as he finds love through a chance meeting at a department store that changes his life.

5. Just Wright---Queen Latifah is a sports fan that scores big when she meets and befriends an athlete from one of her favorite teams. This movie is unpredictable, interesting, and well written.

6. Our Wedding---Tells the story of a gorgeous interracial couple dealing with the difficulty of family traditions, stereotypes, and the principle that "love knows no color." It's a must-see movie that will keep you in stitches and make you believe in the strength of love.

7. Ghost---Unless you've been living under a rock, you've heard of this "haunting" flick that deals with eternal love. It stars whoopi Goldberg, Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze. I admit that I've seen it more times than I can count, and it never gets old.

8. The Break Up---OMG! Jennifer Aniston and Vince Vaughn are fabulous in this movie, as it depicts the many stages of love gone wrong. The scene at the table when the family gets together is absolutely hilarious! And so are many others.

9. Love Jones---Think of it as a hip spin on "When Harry Met Sally." I love Love Jones because it's sexy, sassy, and has great music to boot.

10. The Best Man---Okay, the guys are gorgeous, it has an all-star line-up with Terrence Howard, Taye Diggs, Nia Long, and Morris Chestnut and there's something for everyone here. Basically it chronicles the many mishaps of college buddies that come together to celebrate the upcoming nuptials of one of its group members. I give it two thumbs up!


Your turn. What's your favorite movie about love and relationships?
Or is it already listed?

Image markuso

5 Ways to Earn Cash From Kinfolks!

Let's face it.
Most of us have family dynamics that could be featured in made-for-TV movies.
True? Whether your family closely resembles the Ozzie Osbournes or the Osmonds, chances are their antics, idiosyncrasies, and “colorful” behavior can earn you green!
Over the years, our family dynamics have certainly been the fodder for creative materials for me---for everything from poetry, to personal essays, to commentary.

For example, several of my humorous pieces have appeared in popular anthologies like Simon and Schuster's “Chocolate Series” for women, while dozens of “issues” have been addressed in the way of thought-provoking columns.

And yours can too . Consider this: The family focus has been a popular theme of entertainment for decades. From fictional stories like Alcott's Little Women, to sitcoms like All in the Family, to historical references like Alex Haley's Roots.
The reason? Family topics are relateable and relevant. No matter what color, creed, or country of origin, people can identify through laughter and tears.

If you're ready to give your family “15 minutes of fame,”make extra cash, and possibly bring closure to lingering dramas, here's how to make it happen.

1. Find the human connection---What is a common characteristic or family event that makes for good story-telling? For instance, most families have sibling rivalry, mismatched couples, money disputes, favoritism, interesting careers, victory over obstacles, and family reunion mishaps in their dynamics. Capitalize on yours.

2. Treat “Cousin Jethro” with care---Remember to never put potential profit over family privacy and respect. Use aliases. Respect boundaries. And always use proper discernment.

3. Choose the right genre for optimal impact---Heartfelt emotions typically work well for poetry and greeting cards, while “aha” moments are effective as personal essays and feature articles.

4. Add to the appeal factor and to your publishing odds by providing photos and graphics. Many times simple pictures that can be taken with disposable cameras will be more than adequate and provide visual variety. “Kodak moments” worth sharing would be wedding snapshots, family reunion photos, vacation pictures, family businesses, and births.

5. Give take-away value to your readers---Wow your audience with your words. Make them laugh, make them cry, make them realize that through all the trials and tribulations, families are a treasure to have!

Follow these five tips to immortalize your family and add another dimension to your writing career.

Here are a few writing markets that have a family focus for articles and family-related activities for your submissions. Also note that many general lifestyle magazines have a parenting section for your work as well.

www.familybusiness.com---As the name implies, this publication deals with family owned operations, related success stories and challenges.

www.chicagoparent.com---For families in the Midwest –includes places to visit, local happenings and how-tos on rearing kids.

www.familycircle.com---Monthly publication that addresses all issues devoted to quality living , from toddlers to teens.

www.readersdigest.com---Accepts humorous pieces and anecdotes.

www.washingtonfamily.com---Targets those residing in Washington D.C. and surrounding communities.

www.adoptivefamilies.com---Award-winning, national magazine that provides information on adoption issues and legislation.

Thoughts? How has your family influenced your creativity or your writing career?

Image Salvatore Vuono

Blog Audit...?

It's tax time again.
And what better reminder of the need to take inventory of where we're going and where we've been. In fact, audits are a great assessment tool for growth and reflection in other areas.

This realization brought to mind my blogging efforts. So I conducted one.
For educational and informational purposes, here's what my analysis revealed:

1. My followers doubled.
2. I spend an average of about 4-6 hours a week on posting.
3. Comparatively I need to spend more time commenting on some of my favorite blogs.
4. I guest posted at about the same rate for 2009 and 2010.
5. I need to schedule more guest posts for 2011.
6. Guest posts at my site in some instances generated more comments than my own. Which serves to support the theory that they're a good thing!
7. My Google Page Rank increased from "3" to a "4".
8. I landed 3 paid blogging gigs. One as a relationship blogger, two as a business blogger.
9. I tend to be a "lark" blogger. Most of my posting is done before 6:30 in the morning.
10. The weekends are when I get most of my new followers.
11. I love blogging, but need to be more mindful of the hours I log into the computer. :-)
12. I changed the theme and the blog description about 3X this year. Whadda' you think?

Well, that's it folks. How about you? What would yours say about your success and your blog status?

"Dear Diary" Contest Winner!

LOCKED SECRETS

I purchased my first locked diary in the throbbing malls of Dubai - a slim book with a soft cover and a tiny padlock on the side. The sight of it sent me into such a tizzy, I dished out half my monthly allowance to buy it. I whisked the pink diary home and spent every moment savoring it. At first, its pristine pages almost made me feel guilty for staining them with my awkward handwriting. But once I opened myself up to it, it just invited me to write more.

In the night, hidden under the covers, I held a torch in one hand as my pen flew over the pages. I poured my soul out into the diary – how I felt about the new boy in my class, my best friend spreading malicious gossip about me behind my back, everything.

A few years later, we returned to our home in India. By now I had graduated to larger locked diaries that flaunted scented pages and quotes for each day among their prominent features.

When I secured admission into a good college in another city, I packed my belongings carefully, placing my last two diaries into the corners of my haversack.

My first months in the hostel were awful. I did not fit into the new place. The girls made fun of me, the teachers didn’t seem to like me much, and the boys just irritated me.

On one such tumultuous evening after a vicious exchange with my classmate, I ran back to the hostel and up to my room. I let the tears drop unchecked on to my lap. Much later, when the flood stopped, I noticed my haversack.
I dug out my first locked diary. Its pages no longer bore the first blush of their youth. As I soaked in the words, a rush of emotion overcame me. I had struggled through a similar phase before, and emerged from it scarred but not beaten.

I picked up a pen and started a brand new entry.


BY: GARGI MEHRA

Picture the Possibilities! Using images to enhance your blog

Imagine attending a workshop or seminar of interest for work, or for recreational purposes. You have high hopes and are poised to pay strict attention to make the most of your learning experience.

Consider the impact of that presentation if it were all talk—no Power Point images, no pie charts, no displays, no visual aids, no nothing.
Chances are that after the first few minutes you'd be..well...bored. Am I right here, or is it just me?
Well a similar “boredom” occurs when your blog posts are lengthy with nothing to break up the text and provide visual variety. In some cases, this is even true with brief posts.

A picture is more than “worth a thousand words”, it helps to enhance your blog's image and adds to the visual appeal. Surprisingly some folks even neglect to display a headshot that reveals who they are on their site. And that's a real shame, considering that the owners many times have great content and a distinct voice. Though it's not a universal rule, people typically like to know who they're spending time with.

In my mind, this is an oversight, and an all too common mistake that can be easily rectified.

If you're still not convinced, think of it this way... Imagine greeting cards with text but no images. Or magazines with articles but no models or ads. Or heaven forbid, FaceBook without faces. Or peanut butter without jelly.
Well, you get my point.

Every little technique or tactic used strategically can have successful results in attracting new readers and retaining old ones.

Now that you know the whys here are the hows:

1. Recognize that quality photos don't have to necessarily be provided by professionals. If time, money, or access is an issue, good photos can be obtained by snapping shots with a pocket camera or even a cell phone. I've known small business owners and crafters who were able to sell their products because they had an eye for detail and a good sense of style. No one was the wiser, and their “amateur” efforts paid off.

2. Surf the web for sites that provide free or low cost images for personal and commercial use. They're easy to download and have a large variety from which to choose. One such site is www.freegigitalphotos.net/.

3. Keep in mind that sometimes “less is more.” Consider what you want your blog's image, tone and personality to be. And yes, every blog should have a personality. For example, if you were selling clothes to young adults, your blog might strive to have a “hip” personality. If you were trying to attract visitors to purchase software, your spot might have a tech or nerdy type of feel. With this being the case, limit your presentation and don't overdo it.

4. Be sure that your photo usage does not violate any copyright laws and that you request permission if applicable.

5. Complete your new look by making sure that your photos are complemented by the right associated colors too, be it background colors, text colors, or the colors of ads appearing in the borders.

6. Experiment with different looks and styles to get the right feel before you “go public.” Also, consider having a few trusted, different sets of eyes give you feedback as well—enlist the help of your family or a business colleague.

Use these six tips to add another dimension to your blog and to give readers more visual variety at your site. Doing so will help to enhance their experience, and ultimately your online success.

Thoughts?

Image: Photographer Dan

"Celebrity Blogger" Daniel Scocco

Today I'm excited to share with you a recent interview with one of the most recognizable, prominent bloggers on the scene today. Unless you've been living under a rock lately, or you're a relative newbie to blogging, you've heard of Daily Blog Tips. Since its inception back in 2006, it has distinguished itself as being the ultimate go-to guide for those seeking to make an impact and an income online through their blogging efforts.
Today DBT creator shares some of the secrets to his success and strategies for a better blogging experience.

Q. Most bloggers are already familiar with you and the ever-popular site, Daily Blog Tips, but for the newbies on board, can you please share a little about who you are and what D.B.T. is?

A. I make a living building websites, basically. Part of my income comes from popular blogs that make money with direct sponsorships, another part from mini websites that make money with CPC ads and affiliate marketing.
I used to do consulting work as well, but I stopped doing that. Even at $200 hourly it was not worth my time, and working for other people can be annoying once you have your own business.
Daily Blog Tips is where I write about building and monetizing blogs.

Q. What was the inspiration behind creating Daily Blog Tips?

A. I launched this blog back in 2006. At the time I was already seeing a relative success with some other blogs of mine, so I decided to create DBT to share the tips and tricks I was learning along the way.

Q. How has the blogging arena changed since when you first started?

A. I believe that around four years ago blogging had more close relationships. That is, you would create a blog on a certain niche, and within weeks you would already know everyone inside that niche. They would come to comment on your posts, you would comment on theirs and so on. Obviously this was only possible because you didn’t have thousands of blogs on every niche. As the blogging phenomenon grew we lost some of that closeness. I don’t think that this is necessarily bad though. It is just how things evolve.

Q. What would it surprise others to know about you?

A. Some people get surprised when they discover I am Brazilian, as all my websites and online properties are in English. Apart from Portuguese (my mother tongue) I am also fluent in English, Italian and Spanish.

Q. In several of your posts at D.B.T. you refer to Google rankings and other analytics. What's a better metric of blogging success—Google P.R. or Alexa stats?

A. Neither.
If you want to make money with your blog, the most important metric are the revenues you generate. It's even more important than traffic. Just think about it: would you rather own a blog that receives 200,000 monthly visitors and generates $2,000 monthly or a blog that receives 50,000 monthly visitors and generates $10,000 monthly?

Q. What in your opinion is the biggest misconception about making money online?

A. The biggest misconception is thinking that making money online is both easy and quick. The reality is quite the opposite. Building an online business is very similar to building an offline one. As such, it requires a lot of hard work, and it takes time.

Q. How can bloggers increase their chances of having a guest post opp at Daily Blog Tips?

A. Focus on writing something that will be valuable to my readers, and possibly that has not been covered far and wide in the past.

Q. What separates a good blogger from a great blogger?

A. I would say persistence. Most people give up way too soon. You don't need to be a talented writer or an expert at SEO. As long as you are willing to work for two years in a row on your site, every single day, I am sure you'll be able to make a full time income with it.

Q. Have any social media advice?

A. Don't use social media just because you hear the buzz word a lot. First of all figure out what are your objectives, and then evaluate how the different social media tools and platforms can help you achieve those. Else it's just a waste of time.

Q. Any new projects or Daily Blog Tips updates you'd like to share with readers?

A. Another blog I own is called Daily Writing Tips, and in May we'll be launching a Freelance Writing Course there. There are many opportunities for freelance writers on the Internet these days, so this might be the right course for some of your readers. Make sure to subscribe to the blog if you want to receive updates about the launch.

Editor's note: This is the 1st of my "Celebrity Bloggers" series. Stay tuned for more! A special thanks to Daniel for sharing his insight and his time.

Okay, readers, anything surprising? Valuable lessons? Comments?

Friday's Fab Five! Interesting reads around the Web...

T.G.I.F., right? Well, to kick it off, here are a few sites and Blog posts that have caught my eye, captured my attention, and made me take note.
I'm betting they'll do the same for you too.
I share them today, for the purpose of providing a little recreational reading for the weekend-- to entertain, inspire and enlighten. So kick back, relax, and unwind with your brew of choice.
Hope you enjoy! And if you do, let me know...

1. Let me tell you about my toe---Diary of a Mad Freelancer
2. 4 Tips to Keep Safe Online---G.I. Joh
3. 10 Sucky Things...! Creepy Query Girl
4. 10 Ways to open your next blog post with pizzazz---Blogstrategies
5. Alert for Poets---Writer Beware

On an added note, I'd also like to say that I provide these posts because far too often blogging becomes a popularity contest where really good blogs that are not perhaps active in social media circles, or connected with the right cliques, neglect to get the "props" they desire or deserve. If you stop by these spots, show some online love by leaving a comment, or following, or sharing your favorites with a friend. That way we each can get that "15 minutes of fame." :-)

Bonus: Here's another one featuring "yours truly" that I just found out about today. See it at Workawesome.com. If you stop by, please say hello by leaving a comment.

So tell me...what have you found in the way of interesting reads around the web?

IMAGE Filomena Scalise

7 Ways to Create Chemistry With Editors (and earn more cash)

Have you ever gone on a first date that felt forced?
You know, where somebody is trying way too hard to impress.
A guy who recites his entire resume credentials before the appetizer arrives. Or a woman who wears a sexy dress and stilettos to a baseball game.
Or maybe a braggart that insists on letting you know how lucky you are to be the “flavor of the month.”

Well, sometimes the same tendency occurs when we're trying to put our best foot forward to cultivate a relationship with editors. We try too hard.
I accidentally discovered this interesting dynamic awhile ago, when I sent work to a new editor whom I was both impressed and intimidated by.
His reputation preceded him.

After I sent it, I got that pit-of-the-stomach realization that he probably wouldn't call.
In my submission, I used big words to impress him with how “erudite” I was.
I rambled because I was a bit nervous. And I ended up coming across like a teenager with a bad crush, instead of the polished professional that
I usually am. Ouch.

Perhaps it's happened to you too. If so, there's good news and there's bad.
The good news is that rejection in publishing, just like personal relationships can make you stronger and wiser, if you heed the important lessons. And the more you learn, the more you earn. The bad news is that realistically speaking you may not “make magic” with every editor you encounter.

But here are a few ways to increase the likelihood of it happening, regardless of your genre or level of angst:

1. Pay attention to the targeted editor's “needs”. Don't be selfish. Read the publication's website guidelines, the “about” section, the editor's Bio and the fine print to garner important clues and to get the big picture. Don't assume that because you've been around that you know the ropes.
2. Be yourself. Stay true to your style of expression, belief system, and creative strengths. You may not always get the gig, but at least you'll respect yourself in the morning.
3. Make a good first impression by submitting work that is error free and engaging. Don't rely on spell check as a sole screening method (better safe than sorry).
4. Recognize that a little humor is almost always acceptable and appreciated-- whether it's in your cover letter or your interview covered. However, make sure it's tasteful and applicable.
5. Show, don't tell. It's sometimes tempting to name drop regarding all the important people in the industry we know, or the impressive publications in which we've been featured.( In fact, that's the reason that clips are often requested). Still, the best way to seal the deal and connect with a new editor is to show through your great writing why he should work with you now, and why you'd be an asset to have among his stable of writers. Never rest on your laurels.
6. Understand that love at first sight won't always happen. Sometimes it takes time for interest to ignite. For example, earlier this summer, I discovered a publication that was highly regarded and ranked, and that I was determined to get into. I was smitten. I carefully crafted a piece and excitedly sent it off to the editor. It was rejected. Shortly after, I got a second wind and submitted a second piece. It was rejected. And so was the third piece. After four attempts, I'm not sure if I wore this editor down, or simply won him over, but he hired me! And it's been magical ever since. Of course it goes without saying that you shouldn't make a nuisance of yourself; but don't give up prematurely either. Sometimes relationships and situations take time to cultivate. Stay the course.
7. Remember that good manners go a long way. Think of it as electronic “chivalry”. Words and expressions like “thank you”, “please”, and “may I” in your letters of introduction or queries, help to brand you as a professional, foster a warm, fuzzy feeling, and give the impression that you're someone with whom it would be potentially easy to work. This creates a win-win situation for everyone. After all, this is no time to be a diva; especially if you'd like encore performances.

Follow these seven tips to woo editors, build rapport, and your bank account. And above all, “never let 'em see you sweat."

Thoughts?

IMAGE IDEA GO

Side Bar-Black History Month Question...What do you think?

HOW HAS BLOGGING (AND SOCIAL MEDIA) IMPACTED RACE RELATIONS?

As many of you know, February is Black History Month. And as a woman of color, I am honored to welcome it, embrace it, and acknowledge it by way of my blogging forum.
This post is to give tribute to my ancestors---a strong, mighty, beautiful and awesome people who paved the way for me, and the many contributions they have made to our enjoyment and betterment as a collective society. Thank you. Forever.

And now to the topic of the hour...
My parents grew up in the south in a different day and time. Back then, "race mixing" was a taboo, and other than in roles of service, there was very little interaction outside of one's race.

Fast forward...
We moved to the big city, (the Midwest) where the climate was different, and expectations were different.
Truth be told, I have always been blessed to have "real life" friends who were of different races, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds.

My best friend today is still a Hispanic woman that I met when she and I were in eighth grade, as students selected for a "Gifted Students" program. I find she has my back even now, decades later.
In high school and in college, I hung out with a small group, but diverse nonetheless.

But, I must admit that in 2011, even though we have a Black president, some folks still stay stuck in their same social habits and stereotypic views. They choose to only associate with people of their same background. Or perhaps my perspective is based upon my beliefs as a creative artist.
By and large we tend to be open-minded cool kats. :-)

So I'm not knocking anyone for this; I'm just saying, for the purpose of discussion, that it's a surprise and somewhat antiquated. What I have discovered, through my diverse associations, is no matter what race or religion, we have more commonalities than differences.

But the other day, I thought about blogging and social media.
In my mind, online avenues have caused us to communicate outside of our geographical boundaries and our comfort zone.

When I look at the "followers" on different blogs, and the commenters too, everything is so beautifully diverse and dynamic! Bravo!
I can't help but think that of all the benefits of blogging and social media, that improved race relations has been an added bonus.

How about you? Do you see any correlation? Are you now more inclined to dialog with different folks from different places and points of view?
Have you met and made online friends that are different than the ones that are comprised in your "physical world" existence?

Do tell. No judgments here. :-)

IMAGE SUAT EMAN