Edie Melson's Blog, page 422
February 2, 2014
Weekend Worship—Window or Mirror
You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. Matthew 7:5
As our society drifts farther and farther from God, it gets easier and easier to point fingers and assign blame. So much of what’s wrong with the world today has to do with not following what’s been clearly spelled out in the Bible. It seems that even the ten commandments, the foundation of God’s word, are now open to interpretation.
But along with those harsher-sounding commands is also the command that we love one another. And that love isn’t dependent on the recipient being loveable. Quite the contrary.
We’re called to love the unlovable and that includes . . . Those who hate us. Those who malign our character. Those who wish us injury. Those who wish our families harm. Those who hate God.
In the process of trying to learn how to love more like Jesus, I’ve discovered something uncomfortable about myself.
I had been using the Bible as a window.
I was viewing everyone around me through the Bible, like it was a window. I was passing judgment on every action, every event and every person I came in contact with. The Bible is clear that we’re supposed to be able, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to judge what is right and what is wrong.
But passing judgment belongs to God.
God reminded me that I’m supposed to use the Bible as a mirror—to reflect me and my actions. I need to hold it up and use it to become more Christ-like.
Yes, there is a lot wrong with this world. But I can’t fix that. I can’t even make much of an impact until I let God change me.
So today I’m starting again. I’ll be closing the window, and pulling out the mirror.
As our society drifts farther and farther from God, it gets easier and easier to point fingers and assign blame. So much of what’s wrong with the world today has to do with not following what’s been clearly spelled out in the Bible. It seems that even the ten commandments, the foundation of God’s word, are now open to interpretation.But along with those harsher-sounding commands is also the command that we love one another. And that love isn’t dependent on the recipient being loveable. Quite the contrary.
We’re called to love the unlovable and that includes . . . Those who hate us. Those who malign our character. Those who wish us injury. Those who wish our families harm. Those who hate God.
In the process of trying to learn how to love more like Jesus, I’ve discovered something uncomfortable about myself. I had been using the Bible as a window.
I was viewing everyone around me through the Bible, like it was a window. I was passing judgment on every action, every event and every person I came in contact with. The Bible is clear that we’re supposed to be able, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to judge what is right and what is wrong.
But passing judgment belongs to God.
God reminded me that I’m supposed to use the Bible as a mirror—to reflect me and my actions. I need to hold it up and use it to become more Christ-like.Yes, there is a lot wrong with this world. But I can’t fix that. I can’t even make much of an impact until I let God change me.
So today I’m starting again. I’ll be closing the window, and pulling out the mirror.
February 1, 2014
Social Media Image—Snow at Night
by Edie Melson
This past week Greenville SC got it's first snowfall. I took a short walk one night, enjoying the silence. There really isn't anything as quiet as the whisper of snow at night. I took this photo with my digital camera just using the flash.
What's your favorite part of a snowstorm?
Nature is full of genius, full of divinity, so that not a snowflake escapes its fashioning hand.
Henry David Thoreau
Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
This past week Greenville SC got it's first snowfall. I took a short walk one night, enjoying the silence. There really isn't anything as quiet as the whisper of snow at night. I took this photo with my digital camera just using the flash.
What's your favorite part of a snowstorm?
Nature is full of genius, full of divinity, so that not a snowflake escapes its fashioning hand.Henry David Thoreau
Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
January 31, 2014
Keep Writing—Sometimes You Have to Go Through the Junk to Get to the Gems
by Edie Melson
A writer's life is one filled with ups and downs.A writer’s life is one filled with ups and downs. Some days the words flow and it seems that you have a pipeline from Heaven to the computer screen. The words swirl and dance with a life of their own.
At other times the sentences start and stop, stuttering in an ugly disjointed rhythm. You can’t seem to connect the words into coherent thoughts, and the voices in your head are no longer kinds ones brimming with inspiration. Instead they scream at you to stop. Give up the dream, and quit kidding yourself. The secret to success on those frustrating days is to keep writing—sometimes you have to go through the junk to get to the gems.
I know it’s true because I’ve been there . . . more than once.
I’ve even given heed to those naysayers that sometimes take up residence in my head, walking away and trying to quit. But I always come back. For me, writing is as necessary as breathing.
So how do I find the drive to keep writing when everything on the page is worse than junk? I’ve got a few tips that I’d like to share.
I give myself permission to write junk.1. I give myself permission to write junk. Some days I have to dig a little deeper to get to the good stuff. And for me, that means writing through the junk.
2. I set a timer. For me, fifteen minutes is the magic number. I set an old-fashioned egg timer for fifteen minutes and make myself write.
3. I promise myself I can delete anything I want after twenty-four hours. I don’t delete it right away, because everything looks different after a few hours away.
4. I give myself a reward. Usually it’s chocolate. If I write those tortuous fifteen minutes, I reward myself. The key here is to know that you can be bought and discovering what your price is.
5. I remind myself that words on the page are fixable—blank pages aren’t. I love to edit. But I’ve never had success with editing a page with no words.
I call a WRITING friend.6. I call a friend. Let me clarify—I call a WRITING friend. I have one particular writing buddy who is a genius at talking me off the ledge. She should be. She’s had to do it often enough.
7. I remember why I write. Even a bad writing day is better than a day not writing at all. To paraphrase the famous quote from missionary Eric Liddle (Chariots of Fire). When I write, I feel the pleasure of God.
So what about you? I won’t ask IF you have those days. If you’re a writer, I already know the answer. But I am curious how you deal with them. Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESKeep Writing—Sometimes You Have to Go Through the Junk toGet to the Gems – tips to keep moving from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Tips to keep writing when the wordsstart & stop, stuttering in an ugly disjointed rhythm – from@EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
A writer's life is one filled with ups and downs.A writer’s life is one filled with ups and downs. Some days the words flow and it seems that you have a pipeline from Heaven to the computer screen. The words swirl and dance with a life of their own. At other times the sentences start and stop, stuttering in an ugly disjointed rhythm. You can’t seem to connect the words into coherent thoughts, and the voices in your head are no longer kinds ones brimming with inspiration. Instead they scream at you to stop. Give up the dream, and quit kidding yourself. The secret to success on those frustrating days is to keep writing—sometimes you have to go through the junk to get to the gems.
I know it’s true because I’ve been there . . . more than once.
I’ve even given heed to those naysayers that sometimes take up residence in my head, walking away and trying to quit. But I always come back. For me, writing is as necessary as breathing.
So how do I find the drive to keep writing when everything on the page is worse than junk? I’ve got a few tips that I’d like to share.
I give myself permission to write junk.1. I give myself permission to write junk. Some days I have to dig a little deeper to get to the good stuff. And for me, that means writing through the junk. 2. I set a timer. For me, fifteen minutes is the magic number. I set an old-fashioned egg timer for fifteen minutes and make myself write.
3. I promise myself I can delete anything I want after twenty-four hours. I don’t delete it right away, because everything looks different after a few hours away.
4. I give myself a reward. Usually it’s chocolate. If I write those tortuous fifteen minutes, I reward myself. The key here is to know that you can be bought and discovering what your price is.
5. I remind myself that words on the page are fixable—blank pages aren’t. I love to edit. But I’ve never had success with editing a page with no words.
I call a WRITING friend.6. I call a friend. Let me clarify—I call a WRITING friend. I have one particular writing buddy who is a genius at talking me off the ledge. She should be. She’s had to do it often enough.7. I remember why I write. Even a bad writing day is better than a day not writing at all. To paraphrase the famous quote from missionary Eric Liddle (Chariots of Fire). When I write, I feel the pleasure of God.
So what about you? I won’t ask IF you have those days. If you’re a writer, I already know the answer. But I am curious how you deal with them. Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESKeep Writing—Sometimes You Have to Go Through the Junk toGet to the Gems – tips to keep moving from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Tips to keep writing when the wordsstart & stop, stuttering in an ugly disjointed rhythm – from@EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
January 30, 2014
Interview With a Conference Director—Eva Marie Everson—Florida Christian Writers Conference
Eva Marie Everson I’m continuing my series introducing you to the people behind the conferences. Today I’d like to introduce you to a friend of mine, Eva Marie Everson. I first met Eva when I was an attendee at Blue Ridge, and she was part of the faculty. As a matter of fact, she helped me get one of my first articles published with Crosswalk.com. I’ve been privileged to sit in many of her classes, as have many of you. And if her name sounds familiar, not only is she a best selling author and conference director, she’s also the contest director at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.
EM: When did you take over this conference? EVA MARIE: Last year. After the death of Billie Wilson’s husband (Billie had started and run the conference for 25 years), she asked that someone else take it over. Through a series of events, that responsibility ended up with Mark Hancock and me.
EM: As the director of this conference, can you share a little of your philosophy behind running a conference?EVA MARIE: “Do it well …” As a published writer, and as a faculty member at multiple conferences over the years, I felt I knew what conferees and faculty would be looking for. I think Mark and I bring that to the table at Florida Christian Writers Conference. We have a lot of fun, but we also make certain the conferees, who work hard for the money spent to come, will leave with more knowledge than they know what to do with. We make certain the networking opportunities are there. And, we make certain our faculty is treated well.
EM: What do you offer that’s different from most conferences?EVA MARIE: Mark, Sarah Bulls (our conference manager), and Taryn Souders (our conference social director) and I have worked to incorporate a lot of different events you may not find at any other conference … or that you won’t find all together at another conference. On Wednesday afternoon we have a Book Proposal Studio (conferees walk in with an idea and walk out with a full-fledged book proposal) and a Pitch Studio (where conferees learn to give that all-important “elevator pitch). These are taught by Kathy Bruins and Kim de Blecourt (book proposal studio) and Fay Lamb (pitch studio). Wednesday evening we’ll have a social gathering (a chance to network) with dessert by Lake Yale (complete with little twinkle lights in the trees) and, later on (God help us) Karaoke Night. Thursday night we have “movie night” featuring Brent McCorkle’s “Unconditional” (with Brent McCorkle in the house). Friday night we have critique groups using the Word Weaver’s method of critique (Word WeaversInternational, Inc. owns the conference). Saturday evening we have our awards banquet (a nice, dressy affair).In between all this we have 8 continuing classes, nearly 60 workshops, 6 extended workshops … and a chance to meet with agents, editors, and freelancers who are considered the top in the biz.
Mark HancockEM: What are some highlights from years past—for you and for attendees? EVA MARIE: Just focusing on last year (since this was the first year Mark and I took over) … I think we managed to jazz things up a bit. Mark is truly my brother in the Lord; we have playful banter that leaves the conferees laughing but also lets them know that, with the seriousness of what they are doing there, there is much joy in the midst. We also brought in Robert Gorini, a praise and worship leader who, last year (and we expect this year) helped us usher the Holy Spirit into the conference in such an amazing way. Our devotional leader is Marti Pieper. Marti also coordinates the “Prayer Box” where anyone with a prayer request can bring that to her attention. We also have an “on faculty” photographer who is there to capture the moments for us to cherish and to professionally photograph our conferees (with option to purchase) those much-needed headshots.
EM: Who do you have coming this year? EVA MARIE: Well … you. We are excited to have you lead one of our extended workshops. We have Ellie Kay, Brent McCorkle, and Todd Starnes as our keynoters. In addition to that, nearly 55 other faculty members! For a complete list, go to: www.FloridaCWC.net and click on the “2014 Faculty and Workshops” button.
EM: Do you think a conference is an important step for a writer to take? EVA MARIE: Ab.So.Lute.Ly. I cannot stress it enough. It is the way for a new writer to get into the business, to learn about the business, to know the changes within the industry (especially for those writers who have been at it for a while …), to make those much-needed contacts and connections. I simply cannot stress it enough.
EM: Anything you’d wished I’d asked?
EVA MARIE: How about … “Eva Marie, how do you put up with Mark as well as you do?” Answer: “It’s a gift. Truly. I use all the fruits of the Spirit. Come to the conference and watch me at work!” LOL
Eva Marie Everson is an award-winning author of both fiction and nonfiction as well as an award-winning national and international speaker. She has worked closely with Israel Ministry of Tourism to bring Christian pilgrims and journalists to The Land of the Bible, teaches at writers conferences across the US and, in 2011, served as a adjunct professor at Taylor University in Upland, IN. Eva Marie is the president of Word Weavers International, Inc., made up of face-to-face critique chapters in the US and Canada. She is the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference, a role she shares with Mark Hancock. Eva Marie has worked with a number of publishers--and not because she is difficult to get along with. Among those she has been honored to work with are: Barbour, David C. Cook, NavPress, Baker Publishing Group, Broadman Holman, and Thomas Nelson. In 2012, B&H, along with Harbinger Media, honored Eva Marie by asking her to novelize the movie Unconditional. Eva Marie has been chosen to be a part of the Spirit of Naples Storytellers Conference, 2013. www.EvaMarieEversonAuthor.com
January 29, 2014
Support Your Writing by WRITING—How to Earn Extra Money While You're Working on Your Book
by Edie Melson
If you’re truly serious about being published, you’re going to have to put some time, energy, and yes, even money into that endeavor. Trust me, we’d all like to think we have enough talent to make it, but talent will only get you so far in this industry.
The publishing biz is built on networking. And while it’s possible to create valuable contacts online, there’s still no substitute for an in-person meeting. That means you’re going to have to get to some writing conferences, and those aren’t cheap.
So what’s a writer to do?
Use your skills—and your need to improve your craft—to kill several birds with one stone, and begin writing articles for pay. This will do several things:
It will give you clips—published proof you can write that you can show to potential editors and agents.
It will prove to industry professionals that you can write on a deadline and work with editors successfully.It will give you the opportunity to improve your writing skills.It will give you the opportunity to network with professionals who can provide valuable contacts.It will enable you to attend conferences and workshops without breaking the family budget.
If this sounds to good to be true be warned, it’s not all roses and rainbows. Earning money by writing does take work. And it’s not usually an immediate cash cow. Here are the skills you need to earn money as a freelance writer while you’re following your dream of writing books.You need to learn how to network and market your skills. Paying writing gigs don’t just fall from the sky. You need to search them out.
You must be flexible. My highest paying writing assignments have never come in the categories that I love to write about. I haven’t done much writing I hated, but truthfully, writing about remodeling bathrooms isn’t what I’d call my sweet spot.You have to take chances. I have always been willing to take on assignments that stretch my skills. Doing that has paid off EVERY SINGLE TIME.You have to be persistent.Freelance writing is a numbers game. In the beginning you’ll land an assignment or two for every ten you query. But as your expertise expands (along with your portfolio) the numbers go up. I consistently bag over half the assignments I apply for now.Finally you have to be organized and treat this like a business. People are paying you for your work, the least you can do is keep a calendar with lists of when and who you queried, assignments, and payments received.
I'm actually teaching a course on this very thing over at ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writer). If you're a member, the online courses are included in your membership at no extra charge. Beyond that, your membership entitles you to access the course archives chock full of previous courses.
It's not too late to join, or feel free to leave any questions you have in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESSupport your writing by WRITING - @EdieMelson shares tips to earn extra money while writing your book. (Click to Tweet)
Writing articles while you're working on your book has more benefits than just extra money - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
If you’re truly serious about being published, you’re going to have to put some time, energy, and yes, even money into that endeavor. Trust me, we’d all like to think we have enough talent to make it, but talent will only get you so far in this industry.The publishing biz is built on networking. And while it’s possible to create valuable contacts online, there’s still no substitute for an in-person meeting. That means you’re going to have to get to some writing conferences, and those aren’t cheap.
So what’s a writer to do?
Use your skills—and your need to improve your craft—to kill several birds with one stone, and begin writing articles for pay. This will do several things:
It will give you clips—published proof you can write that you can show to potential editors and agents.
It will prove to industry professionals that you can write on a deadline and work with editors successfully.It will give you the opportunity to improve your writing skills.It will give you the opportunity to network with professionals who can provide valuable contacts.It will enable you to attend conferences and workshops without breaking the family budget.If this sounds to good to be true be warned, it’s not all roses and rainbows. Earning money by writing does take work. And it’s not usually an immediate cash cow. Here are the skills you need to earn money as a freelance writer while you’re following your dream of writing books.You need to learn how to network and market your skills. Paying writing gigs don’t just fall from the sky. You need to search them out.
You must be flexible. My highest paying writing assignments have never come in the categories that I love to write about. I haven’t done much writing I hated, but truthfully, writing about remodeling bathrooms isn’t what I’d call my sweet spot.You have to take chances. I have always been willing to take on assignments that stretch my skills. Doing that has paid off EVERY SINGLE TIME.You have to be persistent.Freelance writing is a numbers game. In the beginning you’ll land an assignment or two for every ten you query. But as your expertise expands (along with your portfolio) the numbers go up. I consistently bag over half the assignments I apply for now.Finally you have to be organized and treat this like a business. People are paying you for your work, the least you can do is keep a calendar with lists of when and who you queried, assignments, and payments received.I'm actually teaching a course on this very thing over at ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writer). If you're a member, the online courses are included in your membership at no extra charge. Beyond that, your membership entitles you to access the course archives chock full of previous courses.
It's not too late to join, or feel free to leave any questions you have in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESSupport your writing by WRITING - @EdieMelson shares tips to earn extra money while writing your book. (Click to Tweet)
Writing articles while you're working on your book has more benefits than just extra money - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
January 28, 2014
Turning Publishing Rejection into Acceptance
Andrea Merrell is a good friend of mine and an AMAZING editor. I asked her to share some of the things that stand in the way of acceptance when a writing submits a manuscript.She's been a guest here on The Write Conversation before, but now that she has a book out for writers I persuaded her to come back.
I predict that MURDER OF A MANUSCRIPT is going to become one of those must-haves for writers. It's published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and now available on Amazon. Personally, I give it a 5-star rating!
TURNING REJECTION INTO ACCEPTANCEby Andrea Merrell
No one likes to be rejected. Unfortunately, when you’re a writer, it comes with the proverbial territory. The key is to keep perfecting your craft—and keep submitting. When I first started writing, I simply put what was in my head (and my heart) on paper. I had no clue how to format my words and had never heard of things like: hooks, POV, showing-not-telling, backstory, and syntax. Therefore, my first submission met with immediate rejection. Ouch! Second submission—same scenario. I simply wasn’t ready.
Was I tempted to give up? Absolutely. Fortunately, I was blessed with some great advice—the best advice I’ve ever received as a writer: “Find a critique group, attend writers’ conferences, and network, network, network.” (Thank you, Vonda Skelton!)
The problem with most rejection letters is not what they say, but what they don’t say. Instead of giving you constructive criticism and suggestions for improving your work, most simply state: Sorry, your submission does not meet our requirements at this time.
So, what are those requirements? What does an agent/editor/publisher really expect? Speaking as an editor and member of a pub-board, these are some of the elements I look for when I review a submission:
Quality of the writing.The writer’s voice.Did the first sentence or paragraph hook me?Is the formatting correct?Is the first page filled with typos?Does the writer have a good grasp of grammar, punctuation, and spelling?Does the writer show or tell the story?How does the writer handle backstory?Is there a natural flow?Is the content preachy?Whether just starting out on your writing journey, or a seasoned author, make it your goal to master these points so your submission will make it past someone’s inbox. Know the basics. Edit and proofread your work (bio, query letter, synopsis, proposal, manuscript, and—yes—even your e-mails).
Bottom line: make sure your words are as clean and professional as possible before you send them into cyber space. You will be glad you did.
Andrea Merrell is a freelance writer and editor living in the beautiful upstate of South Carolina. She is Associate Editor for Christian Devotions Ministries and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Andrea has led workshops at the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference (KCWC), Writers Advance Boot Camp, and The CLASS Christian Writers Conference in New Mexico. Her work has been published online and in numerous anthologies. Andrea’s next book, Praying for the Prodigal, will be released by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas in 2015. To learn more about her, visit her website: www.andreamerrell.com.
TWEETABLESLearn how to turn publishing rejection into acceptance - via @AndreaMerrell on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Do you know what editors look for when you submit a manuscript? answers via @AndreaMerrell on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
January 27, 2014
Social Media Monday—They’re People—NOT Numbers!
by Edie Melson
They're people—NOT numbers!As writers, we all know the importance of building an online following. We spend time crafting valuable blog posts with SEO rich headlines. We follow others on social media, working to connect. All the while keeping a sharp eye on those numbers that define success or failure. It’s easy to get caught up in those numbers.
But the truth is, they’re people—NOT numbers!
We even begin to judge the worth of what we have to say by those numbers. Let me remind you why you’re doing what you’re doing. Why you sweat over a keyboard, struggling to find the right word. Why you risk rejection by submitting those carefully crafted words to editors, agents and contest judges.
We’re doing it because we want to make a difference in the world around us—a world made up of people. If all we’re looking for is higher numbers, we’ve missed the point. We’ve set a course that follows certain frustration and ultimate failure. So if it’s not for the numbers, then what’s the point? Why even bother with social media?
The point is the individuals who can be
impacted by what we write.The point is what the numbers represent…the point is the individuals who can be impacted by what we write…challenged by what we say…changed by what we share.
When I get caught up chasing the numbers, the significance of what I’m doing diminishes. But when I step away from the race and concentrate on who I’m writing for and who I’m writing to, things fall back into place.
I’m first and foremost a writer. For me, social media is a tool. It’s the means to an end. It helps me find my audience. But when I begin to measure my worth as a writer through the numbers of social media, I’ve gotten off course.
My worth is not determined by my numbers.My worth is not determined by my numbers.
For me, the blog posts that mean the most are rarely the ones that generate the highest numbers. The ones that mean the most are those that help someone, that connect the dots for an individual who’s hurting or help someone who’s frustrated finally see the light. It’s when I pen those words that I feel true satisfaction in my calling.
So how do I avoid the numbers race? I’ve come up with a few things to keep me on track.I quit talking about myself on social media—completely. Instead I work hard to help someone else succeed or reach a new level. This takes my focus off me.I volunteer. I offer to write an article or blog post for someone who doesn’t have the same size audience as me.I issue an invitation. I ask someone who doesn’t have as much experience and/or exposure to contribute to my blog.
Limit your time on social media.I watch the clock. I limit my time on social media to a strict thirty minutes a day. With that, I don’t have time to obsess over my numbers.I reveal something new about myself. I know this seems like the opposite of the first bullet, but it's really not. I'm talking about being vulnerable, not saying come look at me. I've discovered that I make those important heart-to-heart connections when I open up and I'm vulnerable. When I revert to slick slogans and polished posts, I'm really just hiding.
Even when I follow my own advice, there are times when the people I’ve invested in move on. They may stop following me on social media and/or unsubscribe from my blog. How do I deal with the disappointment that inevitably follows?I remember it’s not about me. My first thought is always to wonder what I’ve done wrong. Truthfully, I can only think of a few instances when it’s really been something I did. On the few times when I’ve contacted someone to ask why they’ve moved on, I’ve learned that their focus has changed.I remind myself that we all have limited time. Perhaps the person leaving is reprioritizing, and for that I’m glad. We’re all trying to do too much. I applaud anyone taking steps to get control of life.Finally, I take time to pray for the person who left. I ask God to bless them and to let me know if there’s anything I need to readjust.
Social media is the means to an end—a way
to reach the hearts and minds of our audience.Social media is an important part of our toolbox as twenty-first century wordsmiths, but it’s not the focus of what we do. It’s so easy to get caught up in the race to the highest numbers and forget why we’re doing it. This media driven world we live in ebbs and flows. One second we’re on top, the next at the bottom of the pile. When we measure our worth through charts and graphs generated by numbers we’re certain to fail. But when we look at the lives that are impacted by our words, success is guaranteed.
I’d love the opportunity to learn from you. What do you do to keep your focus on the words and not the numbers?
Don't forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLES
They're people—NOT numbers! Social Media Mentor @EdieMelson reminds us of the reason we write. (Click to Tweet)
When we begin judging the worth of what we write by social media numbers, we've missed the point. (Click to Tweet)
They're people—NOT numbers!As writers, we all know the importance of building an online following. We spend time crafting valuable blog posts with SEO rich headlines. We follow others on social media, working to connect. All the while keeping a sharp eye on those numbers that define success or failure. It’s easy to get caught up in those numbers.But the truth is, they’re people—NOT numbers!
We even begin to judge the worth of what we have to say by those numbers. Let me remind you why you’re doing what you’re doing. Why you sweat over a keyboard, struggling to find the right word. Why you risk rejection by submitting those carefully crafted words to editors, agents and contest judges.
We’re doing it because we want to make a difference in the world around us—a world made up of people. If all we’re looking for is higher numbers, we’ve missed the point. We’ve set a course that follows certain frustration and ultimate failure. So if it’s not for the numbers, then what’s the point? Why even bother with social media?
The point is the individuals who can be impacted by what we write.The point is what the numbers represent…the point is the individuals who can be impacted by what we write…challenged by what we say…changed by what we share.
When I get caught up chasing the numbers, the significance of what I’m doing diminishes. But when I step away from the race and concentrate on who I’m writing for and who I’m writing to, things fall back into place.
I’m first and foremost a writer. For me, social media is a tool. It’s the means to an end. It helps me find my audience. But when I begin to measure my worth as a writer through the numbers of social media, I’ve gotten off course.
My worth is not determined by my numbers.My worth is not determined by my numbers.For me, the blog posts that mean the most are rarely the ones that generate the highest numbers. The ones that mean the most are those that help someone, that connect the dots for an individual who’s hurting or help someone who’s frustrated finally see the light. It’s when I pen those words that I feel true satisfaction in my calling.
So how do I avoid the numbers race? I’ve come up with a few things to keep me on track.I quit talking about myself on social media—completely. Instead I work hard to help someone else succeed or reach a new level. This takes my focus off me.I volunteer. I offer to write an article or blog post for someone who doesn’t have the same size audience as me.I issue an invitation. I ask someone who doesn’t have as much experience and/or exposure to contribute to my blog.
Limit your time on social media.I watch the clock. I limit my time on social media to a strict thirty minutes a day. With that, I don’t have time to obsess over my numbers.I reveal something new about myself. I know this seems like the opposite of the first bullet, but it's really not. I'm talking about being vulnerable, not saying come look at me. I've discovered that I make those important heart-to-heart connections when I open up and I'm vulnerable. When I revert to slick slogans and polished posts, I'm really just hiding.Even when I follow my own advice, there are times when the people I’ve invested in move on. They may stop following me on social media and/or unsubscribe from my blog. How do I deal with the disappointment that inevitably follows?I remember it’s not about me. My first thought is always to wonder what I’ve done wrong. Truthfully, I can only think of a few instances when it’s really been something I did. On the few times when I’ve contacted someone to ask why they’ve moved on, I’ve learned that their focus has changed.I remind myself that we all have limited time. Perhaps the person leaving is reprioritizing, and for that I’m glad. We’re all trying to do too much. I applaud anyone taking steps to get control of life.Finally, I take time to pray for the person who left. I ask God to bless them and to let me know if there’s anything I need to readjust.
Social media is the means to an end—a wayto reach the hearts and minds of our audience.Social media is an important part of our toolbox as twenty-first century wordsmiths, but it’s not the focus of what we do. It’s so easy to get caught up in the race to the highest numbers and forget why we’re doing it. This media driven world we live in ebbs and flows. One second we’re on top, the next at the bottom of the pile. When we measure our worth through charts and graphs generated by numbers we’re certain to fail. But when we look at the lives that are impacted by our words, success is guaranteed.
I’d love the opportunity to learn from you. What do you do to keep your focus on the words and not the numbers?
Don't forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLES
They're people—NOT numbers! Social Media Mentor @EdieMelson reminds us of the reason we write. (Click to Tweet)
When we begin judging the worth of what we write by social media numbers, we've missed the point. (Click to Tweet)
January 26, 2014
Weekend Worship—Discipline versus Freedom—Not Really Opposites
I press in toward the goal of the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14
Freedom and discipline may seem like opposite ends of the spectrum. But recently I’ve discovered, through experience, how related those two terms truly are. For those of you who follow my blog regularly you’ve noticed a common theme in my Weekend Worship—stress due to saying yes to often.
There are many reasons I tend to automatically say yes instead of no. Some of them may strike a nerve with you as well.
I don’t want to disappoint someone.It feels good to be needed.I don’t want to be left out.I enjoy that particular task.I feel God has called me to do this.
Some are good reasons to say yes, most aren’t. The order of the list above is purposeful. I put the reasons in this order on purpose—not because that’s a good order, but because it’s an honest one.
All too often I put God’s calling last…not first.
And I’ve found that doing things for the wrong reason enslaves my time and doesn’t leave me free to fulfill the call God has put on my life.
Over-indulgence—even to serving others—is an exercise that leads to slavery. It’s NEVER a demonstration of freedom. A hard lesson that this people-pleasing girl must learn over and over again.
So today I’m continuing my resolve to pray first, wait on God and PRESS ON to His goal for me—no matter the consequences. Care to join me?
Freedom and discipline may seem like opposite ends of the spectrum. But recently I’ve discovered, through experience, how related those two terms truly are. For those of you who follow my blog regularly you’ve noticed a common theme in my Weekend Worship—stress due to saying yes to often.There are many reasons I tend to automatically say yes instead of no. Some of them may strike a nerve with you as well.
I don’t want to disappoint someone.It feels good to be needed.I don’t want to be left out.I enjoy that particular task.I feel God has called me to do this.
Some are good reasons to say yes, most aren’t. The order of the list above is purposeful. I put the reasons in this order on purpose—not because that’s a good order, but because it’s an honest one. All too often I put God’s calling last…not first.
And I’ve found that doing things for the wrong reason enslaves my time and doesn’t leave me free to fulfill the call God has put on my life.
Over-indulgence—even to serving others—is an exercise that leads to slavery. It’s NEVER a demonstration of freedom. A hard lesson that this people-pleasing girl must learn over and over again.
So today I’m continuing my resolve to pray first, wait on God and PRESS ON to His goal for me—no matter the consequences. Care to join me?
January 25, 2014
Social Media Image—The Craft & the Creative
As writers, we all strive to improve our craft. What has helped you the most? Do you have a favorite craft book, an instructor that has inspired you? Beyond that, what authors have touched your soul?
It's up to the author to intertwine the craft with the creative,
and find the balance that touches the soul of the reader. - Edie MelsonShare your thoughts in the comment section below.
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
It's up to the author to intertwine the craft with the creative, and find the balance that touches the soul of the reader. - Edie MelsonShare your thoughts in the comment section below.
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
January 24, 2014
Life Lessons—What Writing has Taught Me about Myself & about Life
by Edie Melson
Following my heart to become a writer has taught me a lot. I still remember the first time I got brave enough to call myself a writer, and the excitement the first time I sold an article.
It wasn’t all rainbows and roses though. I remember the excitement of having my first manuscript taken to committee—and the devastation when the publisher ultimately rejected it.
I wouldn’t have traded a single minute of my experience. Even that rejection was good because truthfully, neither my manuscript or me was ready for publication.So today I’d like to share what writing has taught me about myself & life.Talent without persistence is worthless. So much of what we need to know to be successful, no matter what our goals, can be learned.
I’m stronger than I thought. If I had known when I started, the hard work and emotional toll getting to this point would take. I would have quite because I would never have dreamed I could do it.Sometimes, ignorance really is bliss. When I first started down this road, I thought I knew everything I needed for writing success. I’m glad now that I didn’t know what was needed at the beginning. It would have been too overwhelming.
Quitting is the only path to failure. I’ve found writing success, but a lot of it has come simply because I refused to give up.God is the One who directs my path. I can (and will continue) to make plans—but I stay flexible. I would never have even dreamed of the opportunities God has given me.
There’s a big difference between goals and dreams. They both have their place in the writer’s life, but a goal is something who’s outcome I can influence. A dream is something I wish would happen. It’s the difference between having the goal of getting a book published or having a best seller. I can achieve the first by hard work, but the second is ultimately up to God.
Detours aren’t the same thing as roadblocks. My path to publication has zigged and zagged so many times it looks like the path Mother Goose’s Crooked Old Man left behind. But more frequently than not, those detours ended up getting me further ahead, faster.Generosity will always get you farther than selfishness. I have never once regretted putting someone else before me. I’d even go so far as to say that I’ve build my career (or at least my platform) by promoting others.My reputation is worth solid gold, but it’s not something I can buy. I can only achieve it and keep it by guarding it. I always try to communicate honestly and above all, keep my word.The joy is in the journey. The people I’ve met, the things I’ve gotten to experience have been the high points, not the achievements.Publication isn’t the sole definition of writing success. Touching someone’s life through the words I pen, whether it’s on a blog or a book or an article, is way more important than a book contract.
These are just a few of the things I’ve learned while on this writing journey. What about you? Has writing taught you anything important about yourself and/or about life? Share your thoughts below.
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESDetours aren’t the samething as roadblocks—in the writing journey—or in life. Lessons learned via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
The joy is in the journey – @EdieMelson shareslessons learned from the writers life. (Click to Tweet)
Following my heart to become a writer has taught me a lot. I still remember the first time I got brave enough to call myself a writer, and the excitement the first time I sold an article. It wasn’t all rainbows and roses though. I remember the excitement of having my first manuscript taken to committee—and the devastation when the publisher ultimately rejected it.
I wouldn’t have traded a single minute of my experience. Even that rejection was good because truthfully, neither my manuscript or me was ready for publication.So today I’d like to share what writing has taught me about myself & life.Talent without persistence is worthless. So much of what we need to know to be successful, no matter what our goals, can be learned.
I’m stronger than I thought. If I had known when I started, the hard work and emotional toll getting to this point would take. I would have quite because I would never have dreamed I could do it.Sometimes, ignorance really is bliss. When I first started down this road, I thought I knew everything I needed for writing success. I’m glad now that I didn’t know what was needed at the beginning. It would have been too overwhelming.
Quitting is the only path to failure. I’ve found writing success, but a lot of it has come simply because I refused to give up.God is the One who directs my path. I can (and will continue) to make plans—but I stay flexible. I would never have even dreamed of the opportunities God has given me.There’s a big difference between goals and dreams. They both have their place in the writer’s life, but a goal is something who’s outcome I can influence. A dream is something I wish would happen. It’s the difference between having the goal of getting a book published or having a best seller. I can achieve the first by hard work, but the second is ultimately up to God.
Detours aren’t the same thing as roadblocks. My path to publication has zigged and zagged so many times it looks like the path Mother Goose’s Crooked Old Man left behind. But more frequently than not, those detours ended up getting me further ahead, faster.Generosity will always get you farther than selfishness. I have never once regretted putting someone else before me. I’d even go so far as to say that I’ve build my career (or at least my platform) by promoting others.My reputation is worth solid gold, but it’s not something I can buy. I can only achieve it and keep it by guarding it. I always try to communicate honestly and above all, keep my word.The joy is in the journey. The people I’ve met, the things I’ve gotten to experience have been the high points, not the achievements.Publication isn’t the sole definition of writing success. Touching someone’s life through the words I pen, whether it’s on a blog or a book or an article, is way more important than a book contract.These are just a few of the things I’ve learned while on this writing journey. What about you? Has writing taught you anything important about yourself and/or about life? Share your thoughts below.
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESDetours aren’t the samething as roadblocks—in the writing journey—or in life. Lessons learned via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
The joy is in the journey – @EdieMelson shareslessons learned from the writers life. (Click to Tweet)
