a.k.a writer

a.k.a writer

copy distinguished

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A fork in the road: taking both paths as a writer

February 20, 2012

If I could choose one word to describe the last year, it would be focus. I’m more focused in the type of freelance copywriting projects I want and I’ve become very clear in my goals—and voice—as a creative writer.

This blog: not so focused. But I’m going to fix that.

Because this site has housed my portfolio and been the launching point for my business a.k.a writer, I’ve been mindful of being professional. I’ve written every post as though as prospective or current client might read it. That’s fine, but it’s felt very confining when it comes to the creative non-fiction writing that I love so much. It muted my voice and created a distance that didn’t feel write right.

So now I’m going to focus a.k.a writer on copywriting and freelancing, which includes things like tips for building a business and “ask a.k.a.” I’ll also be posting related images to my pinterest boards. For a more creative outlet, I’ve started a new tumblr  a written life: the alphabet’s personal. My tumblr is more of a playground and will include quotes, links, photos and posts about writing. Topics will range from memoir to finding an agent to what strikes me at the moment. (You may see some content seeded from old a.k.a writer posts; I will also be writing new pieces.) Having the two sites has been re-energizing and inspiring. There’s so much to write!

There’s no obligation to visit both sites, but I hope one of them will speak to you. If there’s anything you’d like to see on a.k.a writer, let me know in the comments here.

With Thanksgiving in the United States just hours away, my attention has turned from word counts to baking. The holiday tends to kick off what’s known as my “baking season” and it’s my number one distraction from writing during November and December. This year, however, I have to balance the measuring ingredients with getting the words to the page: I have a goal of a full rough draft manuscript by December 31.

I can see myself meeting that goal and can’t wait for the day I can print out the full draft (sorry trees) to start the revisions. As a writer, here are the top three things I’m thankful for right now:

  1. time to write
  2. supportive friends and family
  3. access to writers

What do I mean by access to writers? Whether it’s connecting 140 characters at a time on Twitter or hearing an author speak about his or her writing via video, we can find inspiration from our favorite writers on a daily basis. One of my most treasured experiences from the last two years of Aspen Summer Words Writing Retreat has been hearing Nikky Finney read her poetry and share her stories. I could listen to her strong, powerful, tender voice all day long. In the video here, she reads “Left,” from her latest collection of poetry Head Off and Split.

What are you thankful for this year?

This thankful writer

November 23, 2011

Did you do something with your hair?

May 3, 2011 — 1 Comment

Hey! Well, so much for that monthly posting schedule I mentioned in late January. It’s been the same story: too much work, trying to focus on writing, you know the story.  (Oh, and I got an adorable puppy. Who has allergies.) I’ve also spent time answering questions about writing and freelancing and, from what people say, I haven’t led anyone astray (yet). Then it hit me: I hit a wall with blogging about myself, but I’m motivated to help people out.

Introducing ask a.k.a writer

The new focus of my blog is to answer questions about freelancing and writing. You can interpret what that means (at least for now). I’ve already received a few questions and will be posting answers shortly. Don’t be shy, ask a.k.a. writer (me).

p.s. If you can’t find something you’re looking for with this new design and format, please let me know!

How Writers Can Find Copy Inspiration

December 9, 2009 — 6 Comments

In a prior post, I wrote about challenging myself to do my very best work for my clients. Every time. Before I turn in a draft, I ask myself if I’ve done my best or if I need to invest more time. Sometimes that challenge isn’t about pushing myself to excel, it’s about getting started.

Several of my recent projects have been writing vertical marketing e-mail campaigns and corresponding web landing pages. The jobs are challenging: writing creative, snappy copy for typically “dry” topics like manufacturing (chemicals, food & beverage, high tech) and services (banking and insurance). But, once I’ve reviewed the background materials and need to get type on the page, it can be a struggle to begin writing.

Here are some of my favorite ways to find word inspiration:

  • Rock it. For my copywriting projects, I tend to listen to instrumental (usually lounge) music so that I’m not distracted by song lyrics. But, when I’m a little stuck, I’ll crank up tunes that are lively and energetic. It amps up my energy and takes my mind off of the blank page. Fast-paced music also helps me when I’m cranking out headlines in search of the one.
  • Avoid white space. When a blank computer screen swims before me, I will turn to paper (such as a lined steno pad) and start scribbling. I’ll jot down words, phrases, thoughts—anything to keep the pen moving. Sometimes, I find myself starting to draft the opening lines I need and then I’ll move back to my laptop.
  • Scenery Switch. I’m very fortunate to have a fantastic home office and it’s my preferred working space. However, sometimes I need a change. It can be as small as working at my dining table or as big as actually leaving the house. There are three coffee places within a few blocks of my apartment and I’ll choose the one that best meets the boost I need. Example: a bright, cartoon-inspired venue to help me infuse my copywriting with some sass.
  • Leave it. Stepping away can be a great way to find inspiration. You can take a quick walk, call someone, read a magazine or book. I find that thumbing through art books can be a fantastic way to feed my creative well.
  • Be anti-social. While everyone has their own relationship with online social networks like Facebook and Twitter, I can’t turn to them when I’m struggling to get copy on the page. It’s too easy for me to find tangents or distractions that eat up way too much time.

What helps you find copy inspiration? Do you have music or other locations that act as your muse? What helps you get started when you’re stuck on a creative project? Please share your tips and experiences in the comments below.

Image attribution: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jek-a-go-go/ / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

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