INTRODUCTION:
Regular readers of the Ultimate Vocabulary blog know that we are obsessed with words. Reading them, writing them, playing with them, just having fun with words – and learning new vocabulary so that we have even more to have fun with! But some of our readers have asked how they can turn their love of words into more than a free time activity or hobby, so we asked writer and blogger Jim Woods to share his experiences with the written word.
UV: What got you started as a professional writer? Have you always enjoyed writing, for work or otherwise?
One day I was going through my computer and I found a story I had written years ago. When I reread the story, I really enjoyed it and thought to myself, “Wow, this isn’t bad. I think I may be a writer.” I thought about it more and all of my positive memories from school involved writing. I started to take writing more seriously and wrote on my lunch hour and in the evenings. Eventually, some opportunities came my way and now I have been a full-time writer for a little over a year.
UV: One of the things you offer through your website is called the “90-Day Writer’s Mastermind” in which you offer clients personalized as well as general advice on becoming a better writer. Is vocabulary improvement part of that process?
Yes it is! Painters use paint. Musicians use notes and scales. Writers use words. Every time you learn a new word, you have a new tool you can use. Building up your vocabulary is very important. One of the most helpful parts of the process is when I go through and help each writer improve their work. I ask a lot of questions about word choice and offer suggestions to make the piece stronger.
UV: Your “Resources” page lists a variety of books that you recommend for aspiring authors. How much of your day do you spend reading?
Great question—I would estimate between 1-2 hours a day. But I’ll be honest—how much you read isn’t as important as it is WHAT you read. Don’t be afraid to mix it up. Make some diverse reading choices. For example, I’m currently reading a book right now by basketball star Reggie Miller called I Love Being The Enemy and The Sound and The Fury by William Faulkner. Read different books if you want to think differently and write interesting content.
UV: Mark Twain is credited with saying that “the difference between the almost right word and the right word is . . . the difference between the lightning-bug and the lightning.” What’s your advice to writers who worry about the words they choose?
I would say to not worry about it in the rough draft. Just get it down on paper. Don’t stop writing until you have the concepts down. Then focus more on word choice a day or two later if possible. Your mind will be fresh and you will be able to be more objective. In all honesty, working with an editor can help your writing immensely. I know it did for me—and that’s why I do some editing now. One of my favorite quotes is from Harry Shaw. He says, “There is no such thing as good writing. There is only good rewriting.”
UV: In a recent blog post you talked about how writers also need to be marketers. What percentage of your time do you devote to marketing yourself and your work?
If you are writing seriously—especially if you are blogging—then marketing needs to be on your mind the majority of the time. Marketing is what allows you to write good headlines and engage with your ideal readers and connect with your audience. Marketing is the lifeblood of your writing. Be intentional and always keep testing. Don’t fixate on the numbers, but at the same time pay attention to what is working and what isn’t.
If you are writing for a hobby, just have fun. Do everything you can to finish your writing so you have something to be able to share with others. I originally wrote as a hobby and now it is my career. If I can do it, you can too.
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