L.T. Marshall's Blog, page 6

How to Overcome Writer’s Block

Writer’s block can be frustrating, but there are various strategies you can try to overcome it. Here are some effective methods:

Freewriting: Start writing without any specific goal or structure. Write whatever comes to mind, even if it seems unrelated to your project. This can help get your creative juices flowing.Set a Routine: Establish a regular writing routine. Consistency can train your brain to be more productive during designated writing times.Change Your Environment: Sometimes, a change of scenery can inspire new ideas. Try writing in a different room, at a cafe, or even outdoors.Brainstorm and Outline: Spend time brainstorming ideas and creating an outline before you start writing. Having a clear structure can make it easier to get started.Write Something Else: If you’re stuck on one project, switch to another for a while. Writing a different piece can help you break the mental block.Eliminate Distractions: Turn off your phone, close unnecessary tabs on your computer, and create a distraction-free writing environment.Set Realistic Goals: Sometimes, writer’s block can be caused by the pressure to produce a perfect piece of writing. Set achievable goals and focus on getting words on the page rather than perfection.Read: Reading can stimulate your creativity and provide inspiration. Read books, articles, or content related to your topic or genre.Exercise: Physical activity can help clear your mind and boost creativity. A short walk, yoga, or even a quick workout can make a difference.Talk About Your Ideas: Discuss your project with a friend, colleague, or writing group. Sometimes, verbalizing your thoughts can help clarify your ideas and overcome writer’s block.Use Writing Prompts: Prompts can be a great way to kickstart your creativity. You can find writing prompts online or in books dedicated to creative writing.Take Breaks: Don’t force yourself to write for long, uninterrupted periods. Short, regular breaks can prevent burnout and keep your mind fresh.Practice Mindfulness or Meditation: These techniques can help you stay focused and reduce anxiety, which can contribute to writer’s block.Reward Yourself: Set up a reward system. For example, treat yourself to a favorite snack or activity after you’ve accomplished a specific writing goal.Seek Feedback: Sharing your work with others can provide motivation and valuable input. Constructive feedback can help you refine your ideas.Remember Why You Write: Reflect on your passion for writing and your goals. Reconnecting with your motivation can help you push through the block.Write Badly: Give yourself permission to write badly. Sometimes, the fear of producing subpar work can paralyze your creativity.Take a Writing Course: Consider enrolling in a writing workshop or course. Learning new techniques and receiving feedback from instructors can be highly motivating.Try Different Writing Tools: Experiment with different writing tools or software to see if a change in the writing process helps.Professional Help: If writer’s block persists and is causing significant distress, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor, especially if it’s related to anxiety or other mental health issues.

Remember that writer’s block is a common challenge, and it’s temporary. The key is to keep writing, even if it feels difficult at times. Overcoming writer’s block often involves a combination of these strategies, so feel free to mix and match to find what works best for you.

How to Write a Short Story

Writing a short story can be a rewarding creative exercise. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Choose a Theme or Idea: Start by brainstorming ideas. Think about what message or emotion you want to convey through your story. Consider interesting scenarios, characters, or situations that capture your imagination.Create Compelling Characters: Develop interesting and relatable characters. Think about their personalities, motivations, and backgrounds. Well-developed characters make your story more engaging.Outline the Plot: Sketch out the basic plot structure. A typical short story follows a three-act structure: introduction, conflict, and resolution. Decide on the central conflict and how it will be resolved.Set the Scene: Create a vivid setting for your story. Describe the time and place in which it occurs. Use sensory details to help readers visualize the surroundings.Write a Strong Opening: The beginning of your story should grab the reader’s attention. You can start with action, dialogue, a thought-provoking statement, or a description that sets the tone.Develop the Conflict: Introduce the main conflict or problem your characters face. This is the heart of your story and what drives the plot forward. Create tension and suspense to keep readers engaged.Build Rising Action: As the story progresses, add complications and obstacles that challenge your characters. This keeps the reader interested and invested in the outcome.Resolve the Conflict: In the climax, the central conflict reaches its peak, and the characters must make choices or take actions that lead to a resolution. Make sure the resolution is satisfying and ties up loose ends.Craft a Memorable Ending: Your story’s ending should leave a lasting impression. It can be a twist, a revelation, or a reflection on the story’s theme. Ensure that it resonates with the reader.Edit and Revise: After finishing your first draft, take a break, and then come back to edit and revise your story. Check for grammar and spelling errors, clarity, and consistency in character development and plot. Consider seeking feedback from others.Polish the Prose: Pay attention to your writing style. Use descriptive language and literary devices (such as metaphors or similes) to enhance the storytelling. Make every word count in a short story.Title Your Story: Choose a title that reflects the essence of your story or piques the reader’s interest.Proofread: Carefully proofread your story for any remaining errors or inconsistencies.Share and Publish: Once you are satisfied with your short story, consider sharing it with others or submitting it to literary magazines, websites, or competitions if you wish to publish it.Get Feedback: Share your story with friends, writing groups, or online communities to receive feedback and improve your writing skills.

Remember that writing is a craft that improves with practice, so keep writing and experimenting with different styles and themes. Don’t be discouraged by rejection; it’s a natural part of the writing journey. Keep refining your skills, and over time, you’ll become a better short story writer.

Appreciating Those You Care About.

I have no idea where this blog post is going to go, but I don’t know how else to reach out and touch a friend who is going through a bad time. My words seem empty when I try to tell her she matters because I am simply so rubbish at knowing what to say. I want to pull her through the dark grey smog of her emotions right now and show her that she matters to people.

Appreciating those you care about is a crucial aspect of maintaining healthy relationships and fostering emotional well-being. Here are some ways to show appreciation to the people you care about:

Verbal Affirmation: Express your gratitude and appreciation through words. A simple “thank you,” “I appreciate you,” or “I love you” can go a long way in making someone feel valued.Quality Time: Spend quality time with the person. Give them your undivided attention, engage in meaningful conversations, and create memories together.Acts of Kindness: Small gestures like doing chores, running errands, or surprising them with their favorite treat can show how much you care.Gifts: Thoughtful gifts, even if they are simple, can convey your appreciation. They don’t have to be expensive; the key is to show that you’ve put thought into them.Support and Encouragement: Be there for them when they need support or encouragement. Offer a listening ear, provide advice if asked, and help them navigate challenges.Remember Special Occasions: Celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and other important milestones in their lives. Remembering these dates shows that you care about their happiness.Write a Letter or Note: A heartfelt letter or note can express your feelings and appreciation in a meaningful way. Handwritten notes often carry extra sentimental value.Compliments: Compliment them sincerely, highlighting their strengths and positive qualities. This can boost their self-esteem and make them feel appreciated.Apologize and Forgive: In relationships, it’s important to acknowledge mistakes and apologize when necessary. Similarly, forgive others when they make mistakes. This can strengthen your bond.Surprise Gestures: Occasionally surprise them with unexpected acts of kindness, whether it’s planning a surprise dinner, leaving a sweet note, or sending a surprise gift.Active Listening: Show that you care by actively listening to their thoughts, concerns, and feelings. This demonstrates empathy and a genuine interest in their well-being.Respect Boundaries: Respect their personal boundaries and preferences. Everyone has different ways of feeling appreciated, so it’s important to understand and honor those.Be Patient: Understand that everyone has their ups and downs. Be patient during tough times and offer your support without judgment.Celebrate Their Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate their successes, no matter how big or small. Your genuine pride in their accomplishments can be very motivating.Random Acts of Kindness: Don’t wait for a special occasion to show appreciation. Sometimes, surprising someone with kindness on an ordinary day can mean the most.

Remember that appreciating those you care about should be a continuous effort, not just a one-time gesture. Consistently expressing your love and appreciation will help strengthen your relationships and create a positive and supportive environment for both you and the people you care about.

Embracing the Beauty of Fall: A Seasonal Celebration

The Colors of Autumn:
One of the most enchanting aspects of fall is the breathtaking display of colors that nature offers. From fiery reds to rich oranges and deep yellows, the changing leaves create a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Take a leisurely walk through a nearby park or forest, and don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of fall foliage.

Introduction:
As the leaves begin to change color and a crispness fills the air, it’s clear that autumn has arrived. Fall is a season of transition and transformation, where nature puts on its most vibrant display. It’s a time for cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, and the joy of watching the world around us change. In this blog post, we’ll explore the magic of fall and share some ideas for making the most of this enchanting season.

Pumpkin Everything:
Fall wouldn’t be complete without the quintessential pumpkin spice latte. But beyond the beloved PSL, pumpkins offer a world of culinary possibilities. Try your hand at baking pumpkin pies, making hearty pumpkin soups, or even carving creative jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween. Embrace the flavors of the season by incorporating pumpkin into your recipes.

Cozy Comforts:
With cooler temperatures settling in, it’s the perfect time to indulge in cozy comforts. Swap out your lightweight summer bedding for warm flannel sheets and soft blankets. Light some scented candles that evoke the essence of autumn, like cinnamon or apple cider. Create a cozy reading nook with a pile of books you’ve been meaning to read.

Fall Activities:
Autumn offers a wide range of activities to enjoy with friends and family. Visit a local apple orchard to pick crisp apples for baking or enjoy a hayride through the orchard. Go on a scenic hike to witness the beauty of fall up close. And, of course, don’t forget to plan your Halloween costumes and decorations for a spooktacular celebration.

Harvesting and Preserving:
If you have a garden or access to a farmers’ market, fall is the time for harvesting and preserving. Gather your bounty of vegetables and fruits and try your hand at canning or making homemade jams and pickles. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of fall long after the season has passed.

Conclusion:
Fall is a season of gratitude and reflection, a time to appreciate the beauty of change and the simple pleasures it brings. Embrace the colors, flavors, and traditions of autumn, and make the most of this magical season. Whether you’re sipping on hot cider by the fireplace or taking a scenic drive through the countryside, fall has something special to offer everyone.

So, go ahead, bundle up in your favorite sweater, sip on that pumpkin spice latte, and immerse yourself in the splendor of fall. It’s a season worth celebrating in all its golden glory.

My Writing Process….The Pantser!

A “pantser” is a term used to describe a writer who approaches their writing with a more spontaneous and unplanned style, as opposed to a “planner” who meticulously outlines their work before they begin writing. If you’re a pantser, your writing process might be less structured and more free-flowing. Here’s a general overview of the writing process for a pantser:

Inspiration: Pantser writers often start with a burst of inspiration. This could be a vivid character, a compelling setting, a snippet of dialogue, or just a feeling or idea they want to explore. This initial spark serves as the foundation for their story.Writing Without a Plan: Unlike planners who create detailed outlines, pantsers dive right into writing. They trust their instincts and creativity to guide them as they go. They don’t necessarily know how the story will end or what will happen in the middle; they discover these elements as they write.Characters Take the Lead: Pantser writers tend to develop their characters deeply, and the characters often dictate the direction of the story. These characters come to life on the page, and their choices and actions shape the plot.Revisions and Editing: After completing a draft, pantsers often face a messy and unstructured manuscript. The next step is to revise and edit their work. They may need to reorganize scenes, add foreshadowing, eliminate inconsistencies, and improve pacing.Iterative Process: Pantser writing is an iterative process. After revising, they might continue to write, edit, and refine, allowing the story to evolve organically.Feedback and Critique: Many pantsers seek feedback from beta readers or critique partners once they have a more polished draft. This feedback can help identify areas that need improvement or clarification.Finalizing and Polishing: Eventually, the pantser will reach a point where they are satisfied with the story’s overall structure, character development, and prose. They will then focus on the final polish, paying attention to grammar, punctuation, and style.Publication: If the goal is to publish, a pantser will go through the querying or self-publishing process, which involves preparing a manuscript, writing a query letter or book proposal, and submitting to literary agents or publishers or setting up the book for self-publishing.

Tips for Pantsers:

Keep a writing journal to jot down ideas, character sketches, and snippets of dialogue.Embrace the uncertainty and surprise that come with not having a set plan.Be open to making substantial revisions during the editing process.Don’t be afraid to cut or change parts of your story that aren’t working, even if you wrote them with enthusiasm.Remember that writing without a plan can lead to brilliant and unexpected creative discoveries.

While the pantser approach may seem chaotic to some, it can also lead to unique and imaginative storytelling. The key is finding a balance between spontaneity and structure that works for you as a writer.

A great example of my Pantser writing style is my Carrero series which was always meant to be one book and ended up as 9.

The Art and Craft of Writing: Unleashing Your Creative Potential

Writing is an art form that transcends time and culture. It’s a means of expression, communication, and connection that has been integral to human existence since the dawn of civilization. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of writing, exploring its significance, the creative process, and tips for honing your writing skills.

The Significance of Writing

Writing is a potent tool that shapes our world in numerous ways:

Preservation of Knowledge: Writing allows us to record and pass down knowledge from one generation to another. It’s the reason we have access to the wisdom of ancient philosophers, the history of civilizations, and the stories of our ancestors.Communication: Whether it’s a heartfelt letter, a news article, or a bestselling novel, writing serves as a medium for conveying ideas, emotions, and information across time and space.Self-Expression: Writing provides a canvas for self-expression. It’s a therapeutic outlet for processing emotions, documenting personal experiences, and exploring one’s inner world.Creative Exploration: Writing fosters creativity and imagination. It invites us to explore new worlds, create unique characters, and envision scenarios beyond the confines of reality.The Creative Process of Writing

The process of writing varies from person to person, but there are common stages that most writers go through:

Inspiration: Ideas can strike at any moment. They might come from personal experiences, observations, dreams, or even random thoughts. Pay attention to these sparks of inspiration.Planning: Before diving into writing, it’s often helpful to outline your thoughts. Organize your ideas, create an outline, and establish a clear direction for your piece.Drafting: This is where you put your thoughts into words. Don’t worry about perfection at this stage; focus on getting your ideas on paper.Revision: Writing is rewriting. Review and revise your work, refining your language, structure, and clarity. Seek feedback from others to gain fresh perspectives.Editing and Proofreading: Pay attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Polish your work until it shines.Publication or Sharing: Whether you’re publishing a book, sharing a blog post, or submitting an essay, this step involves sharing your writing with the world.Tips for Becoming a Better WriterRead Widely: Reading exposes you to different writing styles, genres, and perspectives. It’s one of the best ways to expand your vocabulary and improve your writing skills.Write Regularly: Practice makes perfect. Dedicate time to writing regularly, even if it’s just a few minutes a day. Consistency is key to improvement.Embrace Feedback: Be open to constructive criticism. Feedback from peers, editors, or beta readers can help you identify areas for improvement.Edit Ruthlessly: Don’t be afraid to cut unnecessary words or sentences. Concise writing is often more powerful and engaging.Experiment: Try different writing styles, genres, and formats. Don’t limit yourself to one type of writing; exploring new avenues can ignite your creativity.Stay Curious: Cultivate curiosity about the world around you. Ask questions, seek answers, and let your inquisitive nature fuel your writing.Believe in Yourself: Writing can be challenging, but have faith in your abilities. Confidence in your voice and message will shine through in your work.

In conclusion, writing is a timeless and invaluable art form that allows us to express, communicate, and create. Whether you’re a seasoned author or a budding wordsmith, the journey of writing is a path of self-discovery and creativity. So, embrace the blank page, let your ideas flow, and unlock the transformative power of the written word.

Free Reading Tracker For September

After being asked to film a tutorial on how to make an Instagram Reading Tracker, I decided to share it with you guys.
Below is the video tutorial, the link to the template so you can edit it yourself, and the image download so you can use it as is. I plan on giving you one every month!!

Link to the Canva template Post size – CLICK HERELink to the Canva template Story size – CLICK HERE

Download the ready-made Reading Tracker here in Instagram post size.

Reading Tracker for SeptemberDownload

Download the ready-made Reading Tracker here in Instagram story size.

Reading Tracker Story SizeDownload

Giveaway of Signed Book

GIVEAWAY!!!

Win a signed L.T.Marshall paperback book of your choice!!!

Author of The Carrero Series and Awakening!!

All you have to do is…

1 – Like our FB page – https://www.facebook.com/leanandloo

2 – Like the FB post (share it if you like) –https://www.facebook.com/leanandloo/posts/pfbid0229J5FDzQjdAJLenp29WduwiPsBDgihaPCus8RRNuqwWa3tFrhRRvenSsorimFQmpl

3 – Tag 3 friends on the FB post who might want to enter

We will pick a winner on the 21st of every month!!!

International. 18 plus only.

T and C’s – https://ltmarshall.wordpress.com/terms-and-conditions

GIveaway of Signed Book

GIVEAWAY!!!

Win a signed L.T.Marshall paperback book of your choice!!!

Author of The Carrero Series and Awakening!!

All you have to do is…

1 – Like our FB page – https://www.facebook.com/leanandloo

2 – Like the FB post (share it if you like) –https://www.facebook.com/leanandloo/posts/pfbid0229J5FDzQjdAJLenp29WduwiPsBDgihaPCus8RRNuqwWa3tFrhRRvenSsorimFQmpl

3 – Tag 3 friends on the FB post who might want to enter

We will pick a winner on the 21st of every month!!!

International. 18 plus only.

T and C’s – https://ltmarshall.wordpress.com/terms-and-conditions

Lean & Loo launch our first book!

It’s here, and it is Lean & Loo’s debut joint children’s book.

Square Sam and The Round School.

Based on a blog post Leanne wrote many years ago, about being a square peg in a round hole after discovering she was on the spectrum, they came up with this adorable little character. Teaching children that not everyone is the same and that sometimes we struggle with things other people don’t.

Join Sam as he learns what it’s like to be different and how to navigate a world that was never made for him.

Celebrate your difference.

Get the book – https://getbook.at/SquareSam

Want to read the original blog post that started it all?
Click right here – https://ltmarshall.com/2018/06/20/square-peg/

To learn more about us hit the Lean & Loo tag in our menu page.