Monthly Archives: March 2025

“Find out what you need for writing that will make it easier for you on this journey. Test it out. Try sitting or lying down. Write first thing in the morning, then late at night. In a café, at home. … Continue reading →

“This is my wish for you: Comfort on difficult days, smiles whensadness intrudes, rainbows to follow the clouds, laughter to kiss yourlips, sunsets to warm your heart, hugs when spirits sag, beauty foryour eyes to see, friendships to brighten your … Continue reading →

“An ounce of performance is worth pounds of promise.” Mae West “…act enthusiastic and you’ll become enthusiastic.”   Frank Bettger There’s a world of wisdom captured in these two short sentences! So often, what keeps us from sitting down and really … Continue reading →

“There are other advantages in considering yourself a two-in-one character. It should not be your sensitive, temperamental side which bears the burdens of your relations with the outside world of editors, teachers, or friends. Send your practical self out into … Continue reading →

“Your focus is your future.” Oprah Winfrey The ability to pay attention to our writing for sustained periods of time is key to making steady progress on projects, improving our craft, and gaining access to “the zone” where time is … Continue reading →

Be regular and orderly in your life like a bourgeois, so thatyou may be violent and original in your work.”Gustave Flaubert Flaubert was a big believer in having a routine as a writer — and he has plenty of company. … Continue reading →

You and I may not have taken the long, challenging road toward a traditional PhD. Still, according to my friend and mentor Dr. Rob Gilbert’s fabulous Success Hotline (973.743.4690), there’s another form of this advanced degree open to all of … Continue reading →

A Change in the Year It is the first mild day of March:Each minute sweeter than before,The redbreast sings from the tall larchThat stands beside our door. There is a blessing in the air,Which seems a sense of joy to … Continue reading →

“If it is to be, it is up to me.” A story: Once upon a time, there was a wise man who traveled from village to village giving people sage advice. He was beloved by all, except two men, who … Continue reading →

“Writing a novel is all about the timed release of information.”Toni Morrison Horse races are often won based on the skill that a jockey displays in pacing his mount’s explosive energy and speed. And runners, from sprinters to marathoners, know … Continue reading →