Ditch the Dictionary: Write Like You Speak

You've got a story in you, a message that could possibly change someone's life. 

But here's the truth - nobody's going to read it if your writing sounds like an academic paper or, worse, a tax form. We're not in a lecture hall; we're sitting across from each other at a coffee shop, sharing stories. Let's break down how you can strip the complexity from your writing and genuinely connect with your audience. 

Trust me, this isn't just about writing; it's about being heard.

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Speak Like a Friend, Not a Professor

Ever caught yourself zoning out during a conversation when someone starts using big, fancy words? 

Sure ya have...I have. On more than one poccasion too.

That's exactly how your readers feel when your writing is too formal. To fix this, imagine you're explaining your idea to a friend using simple, straightforward language. Here's what to do next: write your first draft as you normally would. Then, go back and rewrite any sentence that feels stiff, as if you're translating it for a friend who doesn't speak "jargon."

Badda-boom...

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Clarity Beats Complexity Every Time

Your biggest enemy as a writer? Over-complication. 

Great ideas are the ones that can be understood by a twelve-year-old in a single reading. If you're packing your sentences with complex terms and convoluted constructs, you're not proving your intelligence - you're losing readers. Strip your writing down to what's essential. Ask yourself, "Does this sentence add new information? 

Does it make my message clearer?" 

If the answer is no, cut it out.

K.I.S.S baby...feel me?

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Make It Relatable, Not Esoteric

The best writers make their readers think, "Wow, this person gets me." 

Achieve this by choosing scenarios or comparisons that are universally understandable. For instance, instead of saying, "This software optimizes your workflow," say, "This tool is like having a personal assistant who's always two steps ahead." 

It's relatable and paints a clear picture of the benefits in practical terms.

And yeah, you'll make your reader feel like you're in their shoes, heart, and soul.

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Leave Room for Their Imagination

A little mystery goes a long way in keeping your readers engaged. 

You don't need to spell out every single detail. Provide the outline of your thoughts and allow the reader's mind to fill in the blanks. This not only makes your writing more engaging but also personalizes the reading experience. For example, rather than listing every step in a process, describe the outcome and why it's beneficial, then invite your reader to think about how they might achieve it in their own way.

Honor your reader.

Sprinkle some literary love on their intelligence.

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To Keep Your Readers Hooked, Simplify

I'll let you in on a secret: the more accessible your writing, the more impactful it becomes. 

People crave simplicity and clarity. They want to feel smarter after reading your work, not perplexed. If you can deliver your message clearly and concisely, you've done more than write; you've connected. 

Wanna know a secret? Write as if you're writing to a seventh grader. Yeah... a 7th grader.

That's the true mark of a successful writer.

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How About We Continue This Conversation?

Eager to dive deeper into the art of clear, impactful writing? 

I know I was. Still am, if I;m being honest.

There's so much more to share, and I'm just getting warmed up. For more insights and practical tips right to your inbox, sign up for my newsletter, The Outlaw Writer. It's where we break the rules, simplify the complex, and make sure your voice is not just heard but felt. Let's get you writing in a way that resonates. 

Are you ready? 

Join me.