You-niquely You

One thing in common

What do writers have in common? My guess is that we could come up with any number of unique responses to that question.

• Writers read.
• Writers write.
• Writers observe.
• Writers dream big dreams. (Feel free to add to the list.)

The dilemma

One of the dangers writers face is our desire to learn. Our desire to write well. We study. We model. We follow the rules in the hundreds of books and articles we read on how to write well. While this is a wonderful way to improve our skills, we also put ourselves at risk of beginning to sound like drones. Why should someone read what we write?

The good news

Just as no one looks like us and no one sounds quite like us--if we write in our own voice--no one will emerge in writing like us. We are unique.

Recently I read a story on gather where the author retold a well known fairy tale from her own perspective. What a wonderful idea. She focused on telling the story from her own point of view. The result was a fresh new tale.

Easier said than written down?

Speaking from our personal center is easy. And it's not. We are inundated with material every day, and whether we read it aloud or inside our head, we begin to adopt the rhythm and tone. Isn't that why Southerners sound southern? New Yorkers sound New York?

Writers will even read specific authors or play certain music when they want to adopt a certain style or tone. Multiple authors have told me that they play the same song for hours because it pulls them into the mood for a story they are writing.

Unveiling your voice

So, what's the simple secret to making your voice on paper as you-nique as your voice on the phone? It's all about your audience. Think about when and where you are most honest. When do you speak your mind? With your best friend? Your spouse? Only inside your head? Go wherever you go to shout: "This is what I really think!" Envision that person while you write. If you want to adopt a more reserved tone and style, make your mother or your spiritual counselor, or your boss your audience of one.

Unveil your voice. "Write" your own mind.