Sitting at my desk, I struggle to define the type of writer I am. The best way I can describe my style is simple. Writing is not a strong suit of mine; therefore, I stick to the tried and true method of Keep it Simple. However, I have a great deal of respect for anyone who can write well.
My first job out of college was as a junior art director. I was surrounded by award-winning designers and copywriters whose work was plastered all over the walls as a reminder of their success. The place gushed talent, and I felt so lucky to be a part of the team. For every project, I was paired with the same copywriter, Joe. He and I would look over project briefs together, brainstorm ideas, and continuously check in with each other to make sure the promotional material was cohesive.
One day, my soda disappeared from the community refrigerator. I was so mad because it had a winning cap for a free iTunes music download. My copywriter buddy, Joe, stepped in and wrote the funniest letter to the person who “absconded” with my drink. I was so impressed with his perfectly crafted witty message. His word choice of “absconded” was just the right touch. This was when I realized the power of writing. I would love to know how to manipulate the English language so beautifully.
Unfortunately, none of that incredible talent rubbed off on me. Whenever I’m tasked with any writing project, I struggle. I force myself to sit in my office lair and write anything. Nevertheless, while at the agency, I did learn to apply my design thinking process to my writing steps:
- Find inspiration: Read articles, print what interests me, and scatter papers around my desk.
- Turn off the computer- I can’t have any distractions….Oh, shiny thing!
- Scribble rough outline.
- Start writing.
- Throw draft away.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 as many times as necessary. This is the worst step. All sorts of emotions emerge, including anger, frustration, hysteria.
- Write. Finally, I put my head down and stop overthinking.
- Edit. First, by myself, then I share with my husband for a different perspective.
- Walk away and mentally suppress the whole terrible experience.
In nine fabulous steps, I wrote something! Although ‘fabulous’ is an overstatement. Because of my ridiculous process, I have a high level of respect for anyone who has even a glimmer of writing talent.
As challenging as writing is for me, I realize it is a skill I must improve. No matter the career, it is essential to be an effective writer. I plan to write more with the hopes that it will become easier. I’m not looking to become the next J.K. Rowling, but it would be nice to not second guess myself when writing an email to my daughter’s third-grade teacher.
