Why I Write (And, What Would you Like Me to Write About?)
So, I don't usually do these kind of 'baton' posts. There are two reasons why I've decided to jump onboard this one though: 1) my super babe Jess Marshall of Jeskaalee tagged me, and; 2) it's a topic that I'm passionate about. I'd also love for you, my fabulous readers, to get to know me just that little bit more.
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What am I working on?
Most of my projects are visual, but I did actually study copywriting (mainly for advertising) and therefore put a lot of effort and thought into what I write. I'm currently working on creating new, exciting content for Lion in the Wild that will come out when we launch the new website (don't hold your breath, we're still refining the design!). Along with this, I'm trying to write in a journal as much as possible; old school, pen to paper style. I think this is going to help me with unedited free writing and therefore develop my style into something far more enjoyable, with a clear injection of personality.
Eventually I'd really love to write a book, as it was something I was incredibly passionate about as a kid and has been on my bucket list ever since. Let's just say I've had the plot since I was just 10-years-old!
How does my writing style differ from others in my genre?
I'd like to think that my writing style is very conversational here on Lion in the Wild. My aim is to not only give you an insight into who I am, but also experience my day-to-day adventures, whether it be arriving at a new hotel or destination, or spending time by the water at home. I want my readers to come along for the ride from the pinch-me moments to ordinary, everyday situations. My writing style endeavours to relay tone, emotion and humour.
Why do I write?
Because I read. And I read because I appreciate being able to look at the world in a different light, from a different perspective or someone completely unrelated to me (and my undeniably privileged, sheltered life). I truly believe that sharing our personal experiences is incredibly important, no matter how significant or insignificant we deem them. It's a powerful thing; knowledge, and can only better us as human beings, allowing us to be compassionate, understanding and, above all, open to new ideas.
I also have a secret love for the thesaurus.
How does my writing process work?
It depends what I'm writing about, but generally I just write what I feel at the time. Or at least that's what I'd like to think. Truth be told, I wish I could write free and from the heart a little more like I used to as a child. I look back at the incredible stories I used to write (pen to paper, of course) and am truly blown away by the way my mind was able to be completely imaginative without influence or overthinking.
Now days, I have to make sure that I can back up everything I'm relaying with research. The most important step I take is jotting points down that I may want to talk about later, not matter how small they may be at the time, including on-the-go in my iPhone/notepad as I experience something or facts I discover at my desk. The best work I've ever done has been an edited mishmash of thoughts and information. It means that all the points I want to cover are there already, just waiting for me to get creative and have some fun when actually compiling the article. Simply put, it takes the stress out of it.
When I've finished the first draft, I'll read it out load to myself a few times, which often uncovers little mistakes that my mind would usually skip over. Then I'll sleep on it and come back to the piece the next day. Again, it's a surefire way to really understand where and what you should be tweaking, changing and fixing.
I also have a couple of questions for you, my lovely readers, on this topic. Do you write and why? And, is there anything you'd like me to write about? A new topic or an old one? Or maybe it's something you'd like to read more about? You can either leave your answers in comments below or Tweet/Instagram me the link of your own 'Why I Write' post.