Writing a book in 365 days – 347/348

Days 347 and 348

Use alternative words for Good, Afraid, Trouble, Look and Quiet…

…

The question was: sum your life up in five words.

I’d heard about the show, one with a funny title that when people asked, they couldn’t quite get it exactly right, but close enough to “This was your life”.

I thought it was about dead people, odd, because I knew it was impossible to interview dead people, though those days, someone told me, anything was possible on television.

Then I thought it was about people almost at the end of their life, as a celebration of a celebrity, or someone famous.

It was a surprise to learn it was about ordinary people.

Like me. You couldn’t find anyone more ordinary, or as several people told me, utterly forgettable.

That hurt, but in a sense, they were right.

Which made me wonder just how it was that I received a letter in the mail telling me I had been selected for an episode.

Of course, I thought someone was playing a hoax, and rang them, expecting to be laughed at, but no. I was being asked to go on the show.

I have no idea why I agreed.

…

When I arrived at the studio, I was taken to an office where the executive producer told me what was going to happen: sign some papers to say I was not going to divulge details of the show before it was broadcast, and what my five words were.

They were different for each participant.

Today, they were recording five episodes. I was going to be the last.

…

My words were Good, Afraid, Trouble, Look and Quiet. I had plenty of time to think about them in relation to my story.

And that was the odd thing … I actually had a story.

“So,” the host said, in that mesmerising voice of hers that had both the audience and the objects entranced, “Tell us what the word Good means to you.”

Of course, it wasn’t just the word good, it was a better word that meant the same thing.

“It wasn’t just a good day, it was a fantastic, unbelievable day.”

I remembered it well, that last day of high school, when it was, in a lot of cases, the last time I would see my fellow classmates.

Most of them I never wanted to see again, because that final year had been marked by more lows than highs, culminating in my date for the Prom falling ill, and so I didn’t go. Then I discovered she lied, went with my so-called best friend, and made those last weeks unbearable.

So much so, I headed straight for the railway station and intended to hide at my grandmother’s house on the other side of the country.

The day started badly, arguing with my parents, arguing with my siblings, getting into three separate scuffles at school, then coming home and throwing a few things into a backpack and leaving before I saw anyone at home.

Every step from the house to the railway depot was a reminder of each betrayal, so by the time I sat in the waiting room, an hour before the train was due, I was mentally and physically exhausted.

I expected someone from home would come and try to persuade me to stay.

They didn’t.

Perhaps that was the final betrayal. The fact that not one of my own family cared whether I stayed or left.

Very few people took the train. Most people leaving town went to the airport and got a plane. There was a bus, but it took forever to get anywhere, and the train was an acceptable alternative.

I was the only one leaving town by train.

Until I wasn’t.

There were five students in that final year that I had to say shared my disposition, in that we preferred to study, get good grades and then go to college. The other three left a week before, have all gained admission to an Ivy League university.

I hadn’t applied.

The other person was Alison Breton.

She was one of those people who no one gave a second look at, or so much as a first. She was clever, and all the boys didn’t like girls who were smarter than they.

She was also plain, or so it appeared, which caused most of the boys to point out her faults, such as how she presented herself. Unlike the other girls who dressed to impress, wore make-up and looked stunning, even if it was an objectifying description, she preferred to be different.

I thought she was brave.

We barely spoke, though we were in the same study group with the three Ivy Leaguers. Two of them were keen on her, but she was not the dating sort. Or so they said.

Ten minutes before the train arrived, another person came and sat in the waiting room.

Alison Breton.

I ignored her for five whole minutes. I mean, what could I say to her?

It was where the host mentioned the second word, afraid.

It was part of the truth, and summed up how I felt about her. I was afraid of her. Afraid, or, more to the point, literally terrified.

I had imagined in my mind many times what I would say to her, fabricating long and, I thought, interesting conversations.

And if I let my imagination stretch a little further, I might have to admit I liked her, perhaps more than I should, but could and would never admit it. One humiliation by a girl in a lifetime was enough, and my completely shattered ego couldn’t take another rejection.

Five whole minutes before she said, “So you’re leaving this dump too?”

It was obvious I was, though the dump was harsh.

And then words came out that were not my own. “What’s your excuse?”

I knew the moment I tried to speak to her, it would be over. Maryanne, the betrayer, was different. I could speak to her, and because of that, I thought she was the one.

She smiled. “Probably the same as yours. James told me he loved me, but he didn’t. Apparently, I’m the subject of a bet.”

I’d heard a rumour and couldn’t believe it. Or perhaps I could. Small town, small-minded boys, one ambition, to have what they couldn’t.

“Best get out of town then.” My solution to the problem wasn’t a one-size-fits-all all.

But it was a response to the host dropping the word trouble. And then looked, and was quiet. It seemed they were all intertwining in the narrative that was unfolding.

“That doesn’t explain your desire to leave, other than the Maryanne humiliation. I guess a month away from here might make it go away.”

“It won’t. I have brothers who will never let me forget. You grow up in this place, no one forgets the trouble, or more appropriately, your legacy.”

“It’s always us quiet kids, eh, the ones who don’t make a fuss, who are studious and respectful, who don’t want to be noticed. No matter how we look or feel. I tried to be invisible.”

“It made you stand out more than the Maryannes. I was just fodder for girls like her, pandering to the mores of the football team, and you know what they were like.”

Being smart didn’t make us immune from being hurt or hoping against hope we had a chance.

We both heard the sound of the horn in the distance, a warning that the train was approaching the railway crossing, about two or three miles outside of town.

The train, like always, was running late.

She stood. “Where are you going?”

“San Francisco. My grandmother. She has a large house and many unusual friends. She was an actress once, when Hollywood was going through its black and white phase.”

“I’m going there too. My mother’s sister, though I suspect she isn’t. Maybe we can pretend we’re brother and sister, to be safe.”

I shrugged. Why not? Once we got there, I’d probably never see her again.

…

“Except,” Alison said, holding my hand, and talking to the host with that whimsical expression she had when telling others the story of how we met, “we talked and talked and fell in love, got married, have five amazing children, twelve equally amazing grandchildren, and just lived our lives. Nothing special, and yet to us, very, very special.”

And then, surprisingly, our time was up. I had expected it would take half the time allotted. Instead, it was two hours later, and no one, not any of us, had noticed.

…

Writing a book in 365 days – My Story

The beginning, which seemed so long ago…

…

So, I have to decide on the genre. Well, that’s easy, espionage. I look up at my shelves and I can see at least six authors’ novels staring me in the face, and between them over a hundred stories.

I should get started reading, to see what it is that makes them eminently readable.

Oh, been there and done that. in fact, of a library of around three thousand books of various genres, I have read over three-quarters of them.

That includes the classics, like Dickens, Hemingway, Tolstoy and my hero Alistair Maclean.

So, where do I start…

An unassuming main protagonist, the quintessential spy who looks like anything but what he is. He’s a loner, doesn’t trust anyone, and works alone, though perhaps it’s time to throw him a partner and tell him the world is changing and not for the better.

He needs a handler who is old, crusty, never wrong, dresses impeccably, doesn’t have a life, works in a dusty dungeon, and is very, very ruthless.

Will it be a choice of saving the day or saving the girl?

Is he invincible or vulnerable?

Does he have a whiny mother, demanding girlfriend, odd friends, and even odder work colleagues?

Does he talk the talk, talk in riddles, or multi-syllable words that no one can make sense of?

And what is his real job?

…

What are my ideas for this story? I generally write spy stories or thrillers, so I’m thinking that I need to put together the typical James Bond start, where you are hanging on for dear life and not knowing where it’s going to end up.

I have one: waking up in a hotel room in the Middle East, a fan above our spy turning slowly, churning the already hot air in the room. It’s the sound of the blades turning so slowly, with a creak or groan somewhere in the revolution, that wakes him, soaked in sweat and with a horrible taste in his mouth.

The attempt to drain the bar below of cold bottled beer didn’t go so well. There’s a headache to go with that, and it was all he could manage to get to the small refrigerator where he’d put a half dozen bottles of Perrier water the afternoon before.

The first went down his throat very quickly. The second helped the two painkillers go down though for a moment it felt like they’d stuck in his throat. A monetary shudder as the pills started to dissolve.

A knock on the door has him instantly alert and hand on the gun under the pillow.

“Who is it?” He yells out, not exactly the done thing in a hotel, but the last seven days of endless heat had finally taken a toll.

And today was going to be no different. The gun slipped in his wet hand, a sign that he was not sure if he would make the shot without missing by a yard or two.

“Room service.”

“I didn’t order room service.”

Silence, and then an envelope was shoved under the door.

…

Ever woken up in another part of the world in a strange bed, in a hotel or guest house, and wondered where you are? It seems that would happen a lot if you were a road warrior.

I’m not but I still have those moments even at home in my own bed.

Is it the dreams we have that disorient us? Like mine because they take me to different places, and different situations, and above all, it takes me out of my mundane and boring existence.

It’s time to immerse myself in a more vicarious existence.

The world of a spy.

I think an action start might work better than just introducing the main character.

The last time we visited him in a hotel room, very hot, very hungover, and not very ready to work.

Why is he there?

Most espionage works during meetings with sources, informants, and important people who defect with a bag full of state secrets.

For wads of money, of course.

Where is he, right now? Perhaps it could be said he was not in a good place. A very tough few years, in the firing line, and the loss of colleagues begins to make him question everything and everyone.

There is going to be a last straw, you know, that one that breaks the camel’s back.

I’m working on his background story, a legend if you like, so I’m more acquainted with the character. I want to be able to slip into his character and be him. It makes it easier to write when you know everything about him or her.

And, yes, there will be a her.

And yes, jaded, world-weary or not, he’s not quite done with the bad guys yet.

It’s just he wishes the moments of self-doubt would get less rather than more.

…

How did it end up?

You’ll have to read the book

Writing a book in 365 days – My Story

The beginning, which seemed so long ago…

…

I should get started reading, to see what it is that makes them eminently readable.

Oh, been there and done that. in fact, of a library of around three thousand books of various genres, I have read over three-quarters of them.

That includes the classics, like Dickens, Hemingway, Tolstoy and my hero Alistair Maclean.

So, where do I start…

He needs a handler who is old, crusty, never wrong, dresses impeccably, doesn’t have a life, works in a dusty dungeon, and is very, very ruthless.

Will it be a choice of saving the day or saving the girl?

Is he invincible or vulnerable?

Does he have a whiny mother, demanding girlfriend, odd friends, and even odder work colleagues?

Does he talk the talk, talk in riddles, or multi-syllable words that no one can make sense of?

And what is his real job?

…

A knock on the door has him instantly alert and hand on the gun under the pillow.

“Who is it?” He yells out, not exactly the done thing in a hotel, but the last seven days of endless heat had finally taken a toll.

And today was going to be no different. The gun slipped in his wet hand, a sign that he was not sure if he would make the shot without missing by a yard or two.

“Room service.”

“I didn’t order room service.”

Silence, and then an envelope was shoved under the door.

…

Ever woken up in another part of the world in a strange bed, in a hotel or guest house, and wondered where you are? It seems that would happen a lot if you were a road warrior.

I’m not but I still have those moments even at home in my own bed.

Is it the dreams we have that disorient us? Like mine because they take me to different places, and different situations, and above all, it takes me out of my mundane and boring existence.

It’s time to immerse myself in a more vicarious existence.

The world of a spy.

I think an action start might work better than just introducing the main character.

The last time we visited him in a hotel room, very hot, very hungover, and not very ready to work.

Why is he there?

Most espionage works during meetings with sources, informants, and important people who defect with a bag full of state secrets.

For wads of money, of course.

There is going to be a last straw, you know, that one that breaks the camel’s back.

And, yes, there will be a her.

And yes, jaded, world-weary or not, he’s not quite done with the bad guys yet.

It’s just he wishes the moments of self-doubt would get less rather than more.

…

How did it end up?

You’ll have to read the book

Writing a book in 365 days – 346

Day 346

How to Keep Your Writing Fresh – Ditch the Clichés (and Use a Few Sparingly, If You Must)

Introduction

We’ve all been there: you sit down to write a blog, a sales email, or a novel chapter, and before you know it your prose is peppered with phrases like “think outside the box,” “at the end of the day,” or “the sky’s the limit.” Clichés feel safe because they’re familiar, but they also signal lazy thinking, dilute your voice, and can even turn readers off.

So how do you keep your writing crisp, original, and engaging? And if a cliché is the perfect punchline for a specific moment, how can you wield it without sounding trite? Below is a practical, step‑by‑step guide to help you banish the overused and, when necessary, deploy a cliché with surgical precision.

1. Know What a Cliché Actually Is

Definition	Why It’s Problematic
A phrase, idea, or trope that has been overused to the point of losing its original impact.	It signals a lack of original thought, can feel generic, and often triggers “mental fatigue” in readers.

Key takeaway: Not every familiar phrase is a cliché. Idioms (“break a leg”) and widely accepted terminology (“search engine optimization”) are fine when they serve a clear purpose.

2. Identify the Clichés in Your Own Writing

Read Aloud – Hearing the words forces you to notice rhythm and repetition.
Highlight “Red Flags” – Words like obviously, basically, in today’s fast‑paced world, think outside the box, win-win.
Use a Cliché Detector
- Online tools (e.g., Cliché Finder or ProWritingAid).
- Browser extensions that underline overused phrases in real time.

Pro tip: Keep a personal “cliché cheat sheet.” Whenever you catch yourself reaching for a tired phrase, jot it down and replace it later.

3. Replace, Not Remove – Strategies for Fresh Alternatives

Cliché	Why It’s Overused	Fresh Alternative
“Think outside the box”	Corporate buzzword	“Explore unconventional angles”
“At the end of the day”	Conversational filler	“Ultimately” or “When all is said and done”
“The sky’s the limit”	Over‑optimistic hype	“The possibilities are endless”
“In today’s fast‑paced world”	Generic time‑setter	“In an era of rapid change”

How to Generate Alternatives:

Ask “Why?” – What’s the core idea? Answer that directly.
Swap nouns and verbs – Replace box with a concrete image relevant to your niche.
Use vivid sensory language – “The horizon expands before us” feels more poetic than “the sky’s the limit.”

4. Embrace Specificity Over Generality

Bad: “She was very happy.”
Good: “She beamed, her eyes sparkling like sunrise on the lake.”

Specific details make the scene vivid, leaving no room for lazy shorthand.

5. When a Cliché Is the Perfect Fit – Use It Sparingly & Strategically

Sometimes a cliché can act as an anchor—a shared cultural reference that instantly connects you with readers. If you decide to keep one, follow these guidelines:

5.1. Make It Contextual

Tie it to your unique narrative.
- Example: Instead of the generic “It’s a win‑win situation,” write, “Our partnership is a win‑win: you get a 20 % discount, and we gain a long‑term client who loves our eco‑friendly packaging.”

5.2. Add a Twist

Subvert expectations.
- Example: “We told the team to think outside the box—but first, we built a bigger box.”
- This acknowledges the cliché, then flips it, showing cleverness.

5.3. Pair It With Strong Imagery

Bolster the cliché with fresh description.
- Example: “At the end of the day, the city lights flickered like fireflies caught in a jar, reminding us that even the busiest streets need moments of calm.”

5.4. Limit Frequency

One per paragraph, maximum two per piece.
- This keeps the impact high without overwhelming the reader.

6. Practice Exercise: Rewrite the Cliché‑Heavy Paragraph

Original (cliché‑laden):

“In today’s fast‑paced world, businesses need to think outside the box if they want to stay ahead. At the end of the day, it’s all about delivering value and creating win‑win solutions for customers and shareholders alike.”

Revised (cliché‑free):

“In an era of rapid change, companies must explore unconventional strategies to maintain a competitive edge. Ultimately, success hinges on delivering genuine value and forging mutually beneficial relationships with both customers and investors.”

What Changed?

Replaced “fast‑paced world” with “era of rapid change.”
Swapped “think outside the box” for “explore unconventional strategies.”
Substituted “at the end of the day” with “ultimately.”
Turned “win‑win solutions” into “mutually beneficial relationships.”

7. Checklist Before Publishing

Did I scan for common clichés?
Have I replaced every red‑flag phrase with a specific, vivid alternative?
If a cliché remains, does it serve a strategic purpose?
Have I added a twist or unique imagery to that cliché?
Is the overall tone consistent with my brand voice?

Conclusion

Clichés are the linguistic equivalent of fast food: instantly satisfying but nutritionally lacking. By actively identifying, replacing, and only strategically preserving a few, you’ll elevate your writing from “just okay” to “memorable.”

Remember: your words are a reflection of your thought process. The more original they are, the more credibility you earn with every sentence. So next time you feel the urge to lean on a tired phrase, pause, dig deeper, and craft something that truly belongs to you—cliché or not.

Happy writing!

Feel free to share your favourite “cliché‑with‑a‑twist” in the comments below.

Writing a book in 365 days – 346

Day 346

How to Keep Your Writing Fresh – Ditch the Clichés (and Use a Few Sparingly, If You Must)

Introduction

1. Know What a Cliché Actually Is

Definition	Why It’s Problematic
A phrase, idea, or trope that has been overused to the point of losing its original impact.	It signals a lack of original thought, can feel generic, and often triggers “mental fatigue” in readers.

Key takeaway: Not every familiar phrase is a cliché. Idioms (“break a leg”) and widely accepted terminology (“search engine optimization”) are fine when they serve a clear purpose.

2. Identify the Clichés in Your Own Writing

Read Aloud – Hearing the words forces you to notice rhythm and repetition.
Highlight “Red Flags” – Words like obviously, basically, in today’s fast‑paced world, think outside the box, win-win.
Use a Cliché Detector
- Online tools (e.g., Cliché Finder or ProWritingAid).
- Browser extensions that underline overused phrases in real time.

Pro tip: Keep a personal “cliché cheat sheet.” Whenever you catch yourself reaching for a tired phrase, jot it down and replace it later.

3. Replace, Not Remove – Strategies for Fresh Alternatives

Cliché	Why It’s Overused	Fresh Alternative
“Think outside the box”	Corporate buzzword	“Explore unconventional angles”
“At the end of the day”	Conversational filler	“Ultimately” or “When all is said and done”
“The sky’s the limit”	Over‑optimistic hype	“The possibilities are endless”
“In today’s fast‑paced world”	Generic time‑setter	“In an era of rapid change”

How to Generate Alternatives:

Ask “Why?” – What’s the core idea? Answer that directly.
Swap nouns and verbs – Replace box with a concrete image relevant to your niche.
Use vivid sensory language – “The horizon expands before us” feels more poetic than “the sky’s the limit.”

4. Embrace Specificity Over Generality

Bad: “She was very happy.”
Good: “She beamed, her eyes sparkling like sunrise on the lake.”

Specific details make the scene vivid, leaving no room for lazy shorthand.

5. When a Cliché Is the Perfect Fit – Use It Sparingly & Strategically

Sometimes a cliché can act as an anchor—a shared cultural reference that instantly connects you with readers. If you decide to keep one, follow these guidelines:

5.1. Make It Contextual

Tie it to your unique narrative.
- Example: Instead of the generic “It’s a win‑win situation,” write, “Our partnership is a win‑win: you get a 20 % discount, and we gain a long‑term client who loves our eco‑friendly packaging.”

5.2. Add a Twist

Subvert expectations.
- Example: “We told the team to think outside the box—but first, we built a bigger box.”
- This acknowledges the cliché, then flips it, showing cleverness.

5.3. Pair It With Strong Imagery

Bolster the cliché with fresh description.
- Example: “At the end of the day, the city lights flickered like fireflies caught in a jar, reminding us that even the busiest streets need moments of calm.”

5.4. Limit Frequency

One per paragraph, maximum two per piece.
- This keeps the impact high without overwhelming the reader.

6. Practice Exercise: Rewrite the Cliché‑Heavy Paragraph

Original (cliché‑laden):

“In today’s fast‑paced world, businesses need to think outside the box if they want to stay ahead. At the end of the day, it’s all about delivering value and creating win‑win solutions for customers and shareholders alike.”

Revised (cliché‑free):

“In an era of rapid change, companies must explore unconventional strategies to maintain a competitive edge. Ultimately, success hinges on delivering genuine value and forging mutually beneficial relationships with both customers and investors.”

What Changed?

Replaced “fast‑paced world” with “era of rapid change.”
Swapped “think outside the box” for “explore unconventional strategies.”
Substituted “at the end of the day” with “ultimately.”
Turned “win‑win solutions” into “mutually beneficial relationships.”

7. Checklist Before Publishing

Did I scan for common clichés?
Have I replaced every red‑flag phrase with a specific, vivid alternative?
If a cliché remains, does it serve a strategic purpose?
Have I added a twist or unique imagery to that cliché?
Is the overall tone consistent with my brand voice?

Conclusion

Happy writing!

Feel free to share your favourite “cliché‑with‑a‑twist” in the comments below.

Writing a book in 365 days – 345

Day 345

From Unsung to Unforgettable: Turning Quiet Heroes Into Celebrated Characters

In every office, neighbourhood, classroom, and family, there exists a quiet force—a person whose actions speak louder than words. These are the unsung heroes: the colleague who picks up the slack without a word, the parent who works two jobs behind closed doors, the volunteer who shows up week after week, rain or shine. They rarely seek the spotlight, and that’s exactly why their stories deserve to be amplified.

But how do we take someone whose humility is their hallmark and transform them into a memorable character—one that inspires and resonates with others? The answer lies not in grand exaggeration, but in thoughtful storytelling that honours authenticity, reveals depth, and celebrates quiet strength.

Here’s how to turn the unsung hero into a character others can truly celebrate.

1. Discover the Quiet Moment That Speaks Volumes

Memorable characters are born not from dramatic acts, but from meaningful details. Instead of focusing on monumental achievements, look for the small, everyday choices that reveal character.

Maybe it’s the teacher who stayed late three days in a row to help a struggling student. Or the janitor who remembers every student’s name and greets them with a smile—even on the toughest days. These moments may go unnoticed, but they form the emotional core of a powerful story.

Tip: Ask, “What would this person do when no one is watching?” The answer often holds the essence of their character.

2. Humanise Through Vulnerability

Audiences connect not with perfection, but with authenticity. Even the most selfless individuals have fears, doubts, and dreams. Sharing a moment of vulnerability doesn’t diminish a hero—it humanises them.

Perhaps your unsung hero once failed spectacularly before finding their stride. Or maybe they help others because they once needed help themselves. These layers of complexity make their journey relatable, and their perseverance even more inspiring.

Tip: Include a moment of doubt or personal struggle. It makes the triumph—however quiet—feel earned.

3. Show, Don’t Just Tell

There’s a difference between saying “she’s kind” and showing her quietly slipping a care package under a coworker’s door after hearing about their illness. Great storytelling doesn’t announce virtues—it reveals them through action.

Use scenes, dialogue, and sensory details. Let readers see the calloused hands of the farmer who rises before dawn. Hear the voice of the mentor who patiently explains the same concept over and over. Feel the tension in the room when someone steps in to defuse a conflict with empathy.

Tip: Write as if you’re filming a movie—what would the camera capture?

4. Anchor Their Story in Purpose

Unsung heroes often act not for recognition, but because they believe in something bigger. What drives them? Is it a personal value? A painful memory? A vision for a better community?

When you reveal their why, you transform them from a background figure into a person with conviction. Purpose gives their actions weight and direction. It’s what makes their consistency remarkable.

Tip: Ask, “What would this person fight for, even if they lost?” That’s the heart of their story.

5. Invite Others to Celebrate

A memorable character doesn’t just exist in isolation—they impact others. Show how their actions create ripples. Maybe a student finally believed in themselves because of a mentor’s quiet encouragement. Maybe a community rallied because someone took the first step.

When others reflect on what the hero has done, it validates their impact. Testimonials, memories, and small acknowledgments from people they’ve helped turn individual actions into a legacy.

Tip: End with a moment of recognition—not for fame, but for appreciation. Let someone say, “I wouldn’t be here without you.”

6. Respect Their Humility

Celebrating an unsung hero doesn’t mean turning them into a caricature of selflessness. Avoid melodrama or exaggeration. Honour their quiet nature by keeping the tone grounded and respectful.

Sometimes the most powerful tribute is understated—a simple portrait, a heartfelt letter, a candid photo essay. Let their actions speak for themselves.

Tip: When in doubt, ask: “Would this person feel seen, not exposed?”

The Power of Recognition

We don’t need more superheroes in capes—we need more stories that illuminate the extraordinary within ordinary lives. When we elevate the quiet, compassionate, consistent people among us, we do more than celebrate individuals. We redefine what it means to be a hero.

By turning unsung heroes into memorable characters, we give others permission to see the value in service, in patience, in showing up—even when no one’s watching.

And perhaps, in doing so, we inspire the next generation of quiet heroes to rise.

Who’s your unsung hero? Share their story—not for applause, but for impact.

Writing a book in 365 days – 345

Day 345

From Unsung to Unforgettable: Turning Quiet Heroes Into Celebrated Characters

Here’s how to turn the unsung hero into a character others can truly celebrate.

1. Discover the Quiet Moment That Speaks Volumes

Memorable characters are born not from dramatic acts, but from meaningful details. Instead of focusing on monumental achievements, look for the small, everyday choices that reveal character.

Tip: Ask, “What would this person do when no one is watching?” The answer often holds the essence of their character.

2. Humanise Through Vulnerability

Tip: Include a moment of doubt or personal struggle. It makes the triumph—however quiet—feel earned.

3. Show, Don’t Just Tell

Tip: Write as if you’re filming a movie—what would the camera capture?

4. Anchor Their Story in Purpose

Unsung heroes often act not for recognition, but because they believe in something bigger. What drives them? Is it a personal value? A painful memory? A vision for a better community?

When you reveal their why, you transform them from a background figure into a person with conviction. Purpose gives their actions weight and direction. It’s what makes their consistency remarkable.

Tip: Ask, “What would this person fight for, even if they lost?” That’s the heart of their story.

5. Invite Others to Celebrate

When others reflect on what the hero has done, it validates their impact. Testimonials, memories, and small acknowledgments from people they’ve helped turn individual actions into a legacy.

Tip: End with a moment of recognition—not for fame, but for appreciation. Let someone say, “I wouldn’t be here without you.”

6. Respect Their Humility

Celebrating an unsung hero doesn’t mean turning them into a caricature of selflessness. Avoid melodrama or exaggeration. Honour their quiet nature by keeping the tone grounded and respectful.

Sometimes the most powerful tribute is understated—a simple portrait, a heartfelt letter, a candid photo essay. Let their actions speak for themselves.

Tip: When in doubt, ask: “Would this person feel seen, not exposed?”

The Power of Recognition

By turning unsung heroes into memorable characters, we give others permission to see the value in service, in patience, in showing up—even when no one’s watching.

And perhaps, in doing so, we inspire the next generation of quiet heroes to rise.

Who’s your unsung hero? Share their story—not for applause, but for impact.

Writing a book in 365 days – 344

Day 344

Balancing Ink & Life: How Writers Can Master Their Craft While Taming Distractions

“You can’t write what you don’t know, but you can’t write what you’re not focused on.” – Anonymous

Writing is a solitary art that demands deep concentration, yet writers are also humans with families, jobs, errands, and the ever‑present buzz of notifications. If you’ve ever stared at a blank screen while the dishwasher hums, the dog barks, or the inbox pings, you’re not alone. Below is a practical, battle‑tested roadmap for managing the work‑life tug‑of‑war and carving out a distraction‑free zone where words can flow.

1. Map Out Your Priorities – Then Align Your Schedule

a. Define What You’re Writing For

Goal	Frequency	Time Needed	Deadline
Draft novel chapter	3×/week	2 hrs	End of month
Blog post for client	1×/week	1 hr	Wednesday
Personal journaling	Daily	15 min	—

Why it works: When the purpose and deadline are crystal clear, you can allocate slots that protect both writing and non‑writing responsibilities.

b. The “Two‑Bucket” Calendar

Bucket 1 – Core Writing Blocks: Reserve 2–4 dedicated hours on your most alert days (morning for most, late night for night‑owls).
Bucket 2 – Life Obligations: Place meetings, family duties, errands, and “buffer” time here.

Treat the writing bucket like a non‑negotiable meeting with yourself. If a personal event threatens to intrude, move it to Bucket 2 or reschedule—never cancel the writing block.

2. Design a Physical “Write‑Only” Sanctuary

Element	Practical Tips
Location	Choose a spot that’s separate from TV, kitchen, or bedroom. Even a small corner with a desk and a single chair works.
Lighting	Natural light boosts mood; if that’s impossible, use a daylight‑mimicking lamp (4,000–5,000 K).
Ergonomics	Invest in a supportive chair and keep the monitor at eye level to prevent fatigue.
Signal	Put a simple sign (“Writing in progress”) on the door or a colored flag on the desk; it tells others you’re in focus mode.
Minimalism	Keep only the essentials: laptop, notebook, pen, a cup of tea. Clutter equals mental clutter.

Pro tip: If you can’t leave home, recreate this “sanctuary” with a portable setup—fold‑out lap desk, noise-cancelling headphones, and a “Do Not Disturb” status on your phone.

3. Shut Out the Digital Noise

Turn Off All Non‑Essential Notifications
- Use the Do Not Disturb mode on all devices.
- On Windows/macOS, set Focus Assist or Focus Mode to silence alerts.
- On iOS/Android, create a custom “Writing” profile that only allows calls from emergency contacts.
Leverage Website Blockers
- Freedom, Cold Turkey, or the free LeechBlock extension can lock you out of social media, news sites, and even email for the duration of a writing block.
The “30‑Minute Rule” for Email
- Open email only at the start and end of your day. If something urgent pops up, note it on a “Later” list and return to it after the writing block.
Physical Device Separation
- Keep your phone in another room or inside a drawer. If you need it for reference, set a timer (e.g., 5 min) and then return it to its “out of sight” spot.

4. Master the Mental Muscle of Focus

a. The Pomodoro‑Plus Method

25 min writing (single‑task, screen‑only).
5 min micro‑break (stretch, hydrate, glance away).
After four cycles, take a 15‑20 min longer break (walk, snack).

Why the “plus”? After each Pomodoro, jot a one‑sentence note of where you left off. This “mental bookmark” prevents the brain from trying to remember the plot thread during the break, keeping the next session smoother.

b. The “Pre‑Write Ritual”

5‑minute breathing (inhale 4‑sec, hold 4‑sec, exhale 4‑sec).
Sensory cue (light a candle, play a specific instrumental track).
Goal statement: “In this session, I will finish the opening dialogue for scene 3.”

Rituals cue your brain that it’s time to shift into creative mode.

c. The “One‑Idea‑Only” Technique

When a stray thought appears (e.g., “Did I lock the front door?”), write it down on a “Distraction Pad” and promise yourself you’ll address it after the current block. The act of externalising the thought releases the mental load.

5. Protect Your Life Outside the Desk

Area	Simple Guardrails
Family	Set a daily “family check‑in” (15 min) to answer questions, then return to writing.
Household chores	Batch tasks (laundry, dishes) for evenings or weekends; schedule them like appointments.
Exercise & Health	Block a 30‑minute workout slot before or after your writing block—movement fuels focus.
Social Media	Allocate specific windows (e.g., 8–9 pm) for scrolling; keep the rest of the day offline.
Sleep	Treat bedtime as a non‑negotiable meeting; aim for 7–8 hours for optimal cognitive performance.

When your non‑writing life runs on a predictable rhythm, fewer emergencies bleed into your writing time.

6. Real‑World Example: A Day in the Life of a Freelance Novelist

Time	Activity
6:30 am	Wake, 5‑min breath, coffee, quick 10‑min journal (personal thoughts only).
7:00 am	Focus Block #1 – 2 hrs: Draft Chapter 12 (Pomodoro‑Plus).
9:00 am	15‑min walk, stretch, check messages (only urgent).
9:30 am	Family Check‑In – 15 min breakfast with partner, kids.
10:00 am	Admin: emails, invoices (30 min).
10:45 am	Focus Block #2 – 1.5 hrs: Revise previous scenes.
12:30 pm	Lunch + offline.
1:30 pm	Household chores (30 min).
2:00 pm	Creative Play – free‑write, brainstorming (45 min).
2:45 pm	Short break, snack.
3:00 pm	Focus Block #3 – 1 hr: Outline next chapter.
4:00 pm	Exercise (30 min).
4:45 pm	Wrap‑up: review notes, set tomorrow’s goal.
5:15 pm	Family time, dinner.
9:30 pm	Light reading, unwind.
10:30 pm	Lights out.

Key takeaways:

Writing blocks are front‑loaded when mental energy peaks.
Each block is surrounded by a deliberate transition (walk, check‑in) to keep the brain from “bleeding” into other tasks.
The day ends with a clear boundary—no screen time after 9 pm to protect sleep.

7. Troubleshooting Common Roadblocks

Symptom	Quick Fix
“I’m tired, can’t focus.”	Do a 3‑minute power pose (stand tall, shoulders back). It boosts dopamine and can reset alertness.
“The house is noisy.”	Invest in a white‑noise app or a pair of noise‑canceling headphones. Create a “quiet signal” (e.g., a door sign) for housemates.
“I keep thinking about tomorrow’s errands.”	Write a “Tomorrow List” at the end of today’s block. Offloading the mental checklist reduces anxiety.
“I’m stuck on a paragraph.”	Switch to free‑write mode: write anything for 5 minutes about the scene, even nonsense, then return to the stuck spot with fresh eyes.
“My motivation drops after a week.”	Revisit your why: Keep a visible reminder (sticky note, vision board) of the bigger purpose—publishing, income, personal growth.

8. The Bottom Line: Discipline + Compassion = Sustainable Writing

Discipline: Treat your writing time as a professional appointment—schedule, guard, and honour it.
Compassion: Accept that life will occasionally intrude. When it does, pause, breathe, and gently return.

When the two coexist, you build a resilient workflow that lets you produce quality prose and enjoy a balanced life.

Ready to Give It a Go?

Start tonight:

Pick a 90‑minute slot tomorrow morning.
Clear your desk, turn on Do Not Disturb, and place a “Writing in Progress” sign.
Write a one‑sentence goal for that session.

Share your experience in the comments—what worked, what needs tweaking. Let’s turn the solitary struggle into a community of focused creators!

Happy writing.

Writing a book in 365 days – 344

Day 344

Balancing Ink & Life: How Writers Can Master Their Craft While Taming Distractions

“You can’t write what you don’t know, but you can’t write what you’re not focused on.” – Anonymous

1. Map Out Your Priorities – Then Align Your Schedule

a. Define What You’re Writing For

Goal	Frequency	Time Needed	Deadline
Draft novel chapter	3×/week	2 hrs	End of month
Blog post for client	1×/week	1 hr	Wednesday
Personal journaling	Daily	15 min	—

Why it works: When the purpose and deadline are crystal clear, you can allocate slots that protect both writing and non‑writing responsibilities.

b. The “Two‑Bucket” Calendar

Bucket 1 – Core Writing Blocks: Reserve 2–4 dedicated hours on your most alert days (morning for most, late night for night‑owls).
Bucket 2 – Life Obligations: Place meetings, family duties, errands, and “buffer” time here.

Treat the writing bucket like a non‑negotiable meeting with yourself. If a personal event threatens to intrude, move it to Bucket 2 or reschedule—never cancel the writing block.

2. Design a Physical “Write‑Only” Sanctuary

Element	Practical Tips
Location	Choose a spot that’s separate from TV, kitchen, or bedroom. Even a small corner with a desk and a single chair works.
Lighting	Natural light boosts mood; if that’s impossible, use a daylight‑mimicking lamp (4,000–5,000 K).
Ergonomics	Invest in a supportive chair and keep the monitor at eye level to prevent fatigue.
Signal	Put a simple sign (“Writing in progress”) on the door or a colored flag on the desk; it tells others you’re in focus mode.
Minimalism	Keep only the essentials: laptop, notebook, pen, a cup of tea. Clutter equals mental clutter.

Pro tip: If you can’t leave home, recreate this “sanctuary” with a portable setup—fold‑out lap desk, noise-cancelling headphones, and a “Do Not Disturb” status on your phone.

3. Shut Out the Digital Noise

Turn Off All Non‑Essential Notifications
- Use the Do Not Disturb mode on all devices.
- On Windows/macOS, set Focus Assist or Focus Mode to silence alerts.
- On iOS/Android, create a custom “Writing” profile that only allows calls from emergency contacts.
Leverage Website Blockers
- Freedom, Cold Turkey, or the free LeechBlock extension can lock you out of social media, news sites, and even email for the duration of a writing block.
The “30‑Minute Rule” for Email
- Open email only at the start and end of your day. If something urgent pops up, note it on a “Later” list and return to it after the writing block.
Physical Device Separation
- Keep your phone in another room or inside a drawer. If you need it for reference, set a timer (e.g., 5 min) and then return it to its “out of sight” spot.

4. Master the Mental Muscle of Focus

a. The Pomodoro‑Plus Method

25 min writing (single‑task, screen‑only).
5 min micro‑break (stretch, hydrate, glance away).
After four cycles, take a 15‑20 min longer break (walk, snack).

b. The “Pre‑Write Ritual”

5‑minute breathing (inhale 4‑sec, hold 4‑sec, exhale 4‑sec).
Sensory cue (light a candle, play a specific instrumental track).
Goal statement: “In this session, I will finish the opening dialogue for scene 3.”

Rituals cue your brain that it’s time to shift into creative mode.

c. The “One‑Idea‑Only” Technique

5. Protect Your Life Outside the Desk

Area	Simple Guardrails
Family	Set a daily “family check‑in” (15 min) to answer questions, then return to writing.
Household chores	Batch tasks (laundry, dishes) for evenings or weekends; schedule them like appointments.
Exercise & Health	Block a 30‑minute workout slot before or after your writing block—movement fuels focus.
Social Media	Allocate specific windows (e.g., 8–9 pm) for scrolling; keep the rest of the day offline.
Sleep	Treat bedtime as a non‑negotiable meeting; aim for 7–8 hours for optimal cognitive performance.

When your non‑writing life runs on a predictable rhythm, fewer emergencies bleed into your writing time.

6. Real‑World Example: A Day in the Life of a Freelance Novelist

Time	Activity
6:30 am	Wake, 5‑min breath, coffee, quick 10‑min journal (personal thoughts only).
7:00 am	Focus Block #1 – 2 hrs: Draft Chapter 12 (Pomodoro‑Plus).
9:00 am	15‑min walk, stretch, check messages (only urgent).
9:30 am	Family Check‑In – 15 min breakfast with partner, kids.
10:00 am	Admin: emails, invoices (30 min).
10:45 am	Focus Block #2 – 1.5 hrs: Revise previous scenes.
12:30 pm	Lunch + offline.
1:30 pm	Household chores (30 min).
2:00 pm	Creative Play – free‑write, brainstorming (45 min).
2:45 pm	Short break, snack.
3:00 pm	Focus Block #3 – 1 hr: Outline next chapter.
4:00 pm	Exercise (30 min).
4:45 pm	Wrap‑up: review notes, set tomorrow’s goal.
5:15 pm	Family time, dinner.
9:30 pm	Light reading, unwind.
10:30 pm	Lights out.

Key takeaways:

Writing blocks are front‑loaded when mental energy peaks.
Each block is surrounded by a deliberate transition (walk, check‑in) to keep the brain from “bleeding” into other tasks.
The day ends with a clear boundary—no screen time after 9 pm to protect sleep.

7. Troubleshooting Common Roadblocks

Symptom	Quick Fix
“I’m tired, can’t focus.”	Do a 3‑minute power pose (stand tall, shoulders back). It boosts dopamine and can reset alertness.
“The house is noisy.”	Invest in a white‑noise app or a pair of noise‑canceling headphones. Create a “quiet signal” (e.g., a door sign) for housemates.
“I keep thinking about tomorrow’s errands.”	Write a “Tomorrow List” at the end of today’s block. Offloading the mental checklist reduces anxiety.
“I’m stuck on a paragraph.”	Switch to free‑write mode: write anything for 5 minutes about the scene, even nonsense, then return to the stuck spot with fresh eyes.
“My motivation drops after a week.”	Revisit your why: Keep a visible reminder (sticky note, vision board) of the bigger purpose—publishing, income, personal growth.

8. The Bottom Line: Discipline + Compassion = Sustainable Writing

Discipline: Treat your writing time as a professional appointment—schedule, guard, and honour it.
Compassion: Accept that life will occasionally intrude. When it does, pause, breathe, and gently return.

When the two coexist, you build a resilient workflow that lets you produce quality prose and enjoy a balanced life.

Ready to Give It a Go?

Start tonight:

Pick a 90‑minute slot tomorrow morning.
Clear your desk, turn on Do Not Disturb, and place a “Writing in Progress” sign.
Write a one‑sentence goal for that session.

Share your experience in the comments—what worked, what needs tweaking. Let’s turn the solitary struggle into a community of focused creators!

Happy writing.

Writing a book in 365 days – 343

Day 343 – Writing Exercise

“What city is this?” he wondered out loud, looking down from a strange balcony to an unfamiliar street.

…

That might not have been the first thought that went through my mind that morning, but it had finally confirmed that I might very well be losing my mind.

What started this…

I woke. It wasn’t any different to what had happened every morning for I believed was the last forty two years of my life.

This morning…

Not so much. It was a room, it had two doors, and four walls, a cabinet, a TV, a painting and a window covered by heavy curtains.

OK, it was not my bedroom.

But it could be a hotel room, and since I travelled a lot, probably a hotel room in another city where we had an office.

I had been travelling a lot in recent months.

It was dark-ish, perhaps day from the light seeping in through the gaps in the curtains.

There was an unfamiliar aroma, like the room was damp, or old, and certainly not the sort of place I usually stayed.

Then, suddenly there was a groan, and movement beside me.

I was not travelling with anyone, I do not go to bars and pick up women, I didn’t currently have a girlfriend, so who was that groaning.

I moved and felt a stabbing pain in my head. A hangover? Impossible. I through off the covers and moved sideways, then looked back.

A woman, dressed thankfully, stretched out facing the other way. I took a moment to discover I was in my forthcoming, which didn’t make sense.

Who was she?

Where did she come from?

Where the hell was I?

I went over to the window and opened the curtains, and the pain in my head was worse. Morning light in unadjusted eyeballs hurts.

I squinted and blinked several times until I could make out shapes. There was another door, out onto the balcony. I stepped out and shivered. It was freezing cold.

I looked down. And uan nfamiliar street, an unfamiliar city. I had no idea where I was.

“You do not have to jump, I am not that ugly,” a voice, female, accented, came from within the room.

I stepped back inside and closed the door, leaning against it. The woman was propped up on one hand, looking at me.

She was younger than she sounded, with unruly blonde hair, not her real colour, and an exquisite face and whimsical expressions.

I had never seen her before.

“Who are you?”

“You don’t remember?”

“I don’t even know where I am.”

“Bratislava.”

“Impossible. I don’t even remember leaving Chicago.”

It was the last thing I remembered. Telling my supervisor that I needed a break, and basically resigning when she refused, I packed my stuff in a box and left, handing my key card and employee ID in at the door.

So I’d finally quit.

That much I remember. I also remembered going home and having a few drinks, then going to bed.

“You arrived yesterday afternoon. You came to the bar where I waited tables. You related your miserable story, drank too much, I brought you here, you asked me to stay.”

Hard to believe anyone would trust an American.

“How do you know I’m not an axe murderer?”

She laughed. “You are not an axe murderer. You were kind and gentle, and let me finally get a good night’s sleep in a real bed.”

“You have no home?”

“I have a home with parents, grandparents, six brothers and sisters, with no room and less privacy. We are poor. I work hard, but not enough for a place of my own.

“So you stay with random men who turn up at your bar.”

She looked indignant. “I am not that sort of girl.”

“You are here with me, what sort of does that make you?”

“A friend without benefits.”

I shook my head. I was letting the details get in the way of the main issue. How did I finish up in Bratislava, if it was Bratislava, when the last place I’d remember was Chicago?

“Come.” She patted the bed. “You look stressed, and I can also give a massage.”

She sighed when I didn’t move.

“It is Sunday. I have a day off. You asked me to take you on a tour. We can sleep in a little. Get breakfast from room service. Come, relax.”

She lay back down and pulled the sheet up, then looked at me. I could feel the cold seeping in from the window, so I shut the curtains, shrouding the room in semi-darkness.

If she were going to rob me, she would have done something already, the same if she were going to kill me. She was here for some other reason, and I didn’t believe for a minute I had asked her back to my room, or she would have come.

I sat on the edge of the bed and tried desperately to remember anything about the last 24 hours. There was nothing. Just the altercation with the supervisor, leaving, and going home.

In Chicago. Not Bratislava.

I felt the bed move as she came over to sit next to me. She took my hand in hers.

“You are acting very strangely.”

“Do you know who I am?”

“Robert from Chicago. Man of leisure. Now.”

OK. Now was the time to start worrying. My name wasn’t Robert. Best keep that to myself. All I could think of was that I hadn’t quit, I was on a new operation, and somewhere, somehow, I had lost my short-term memory.

And the woman next to me could be either an enemy or a contact.

But why had I told her my actual life story, or was it part of the legend?

“I’m confused, and someone like me, that’s impossible.”

“In my line of work, you get to realise everything is impossible. Except every now and then, a ray of sunshine appears in the middle of a blizzard. By the way, we’re expecting snow; more snow, and just when you think that the weather will change, more snow. Best we stay in.”

I turned to look at her. “Who are you?”

“You know who I am, but since you have trouble remembering, I am Irina, waitress extrordanaire, sometimes tour guide, sometimes bartender, not often with time off.”

“Who brought me here…”

“When I asked you where you were staying.”

“No comment from the reception clerk?”

“He is used to odd situations and people coming and going. It is a three-star hotel. Sometimes spies stay in such hotels. Personally, I have never met one. Are you a spy?”

What an odd question to ask. Was it a spy? No. Not exactly. I used to be a courier, delivering stuff for agents at dead drops, but an actual spy? No.

“It’s an interesting thought. A spy with no memory of why he’s here in a strange hotel in a city he does remember getting to, with…” I shook my head. I had no idea who or what she was.

“Me,” she finished the sentence. “Perhaps if you go back to sleep, when you wake up, everything will be clear.”

Maybe, maybe not.

“I’m just going outside to clear my head. If you’re still here when I come back, then I’ll know at least one part of this dream is real.”

She leaned over and kissed me on the cheek.

“I’ve never been part of someone’s dream before.”

I’m not sure what I felt in that moment, but it wasn’t like anything I’d felt for a long time.

“Hold that thought.”

I stood and went over to the window and felt the cold. I hadn’t shut the door. I stepped out onto the balcony and looked out at the old architecture and the roadway below.

After a minute or two, a gust of wind stirred up the snow on the railing and made me shiver. From within the room, I heard the door slam shut, one of those doors designed not to stay open.

I went back inside, and she was gone.

No surprise there. If I had been with someone like me, someone who couldn’t remember who they were and where they were, I’d get out fast, too.

I stood in the middle of the room and tried to make sense of my surroundings. I’d given up trying to figure out how I got there. Was there anything to identify me as this Robert?

A suitcase was on the rack for suitcases, open, and items were scattered neatly. Clothes hanging in the closet. A backpack is on the desk, but not open. Wallet on bedside table, anda document folder.

I sat on the bed and opened the wallet. Money, a credit card in the name of Robert Daniels. Illinois driver’s licence in the same name. A wad of money in several currencies. A lot of US dollars.

Documents, a passport, looking authentic, not a hastily manufactured item that sometimes ended up in my possession, travel itinerary from Chicago to London to Vienna, then my own arrangements to Bratislava. No return, but open, and a card with a cell number, Luxury Experiences. No name.

I looked in the backpack and found a diary, no name, with a mixture of what looked like my writing and someone else’s. Dates matched the itinerary.

Strange dates. I remembered, now, that it had been the 5th when I left the office, the date of my sister’s birthday, and that I’d tried to call her, and the date on the itinerary for leaving Chicago was the 15th.

Ten whole days that had just disappeared.

As for today? “Await instructions. Keep your cell phone close. Tour the city near the hotel, but be ready to move quickly if necessary.”

What the …?

The curtains blew inward from another gust, the cold circulating in the room.

I shivered, but this time it was not the cold. My only memory at that time was having quit the service, and now it appeared I was at the start of a new mission.

After putting everything back where I found it, I went over to the window. I looked out and saw that light snow was falling.

I went to close the door, then, on impulse, decided to step out and see if it was really snowing. I was having trouble separating imagination from reality. Another gust was accompanied by the sound of the door, then …

“Robert…”

I heard her voice and moved slightly just as something smashed into the bricks just behind where I had been standing.

A split second later, it registered, and I dropped to the floor just as another crashing sound came from where I’d just been standing.

Bullets, two, then a third into the balcony.

A sniper.

On another building opposite, looking down. After the fourth bullet, it stopped.

“Don’t come out,” I yelled.

“What is….”

A bullet shattered the window above me.

“Call the police, and tell them to hurry.”

If she didn’t have the sense to run and never be seen again. I wasn’t sure, but somewhere in the back of my mind was a thought that I had just reached my use-by date.

…

One writer's experiences, and battles with words

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How to Keep Your Writing Fresh – Ditch the Clichés (and Use a Few Sparingly, If You Must)

Introduction

1. Know What a Cliché Actually Is

2. Identify the Clichés in Your Own Writing

3. Replace, Not Remove – Strategies for Fresh Alternatives

4. Embrace Specificity Over Generality

5. When a Cliché Is the Perfect Fit – Use It Sparingly & Strategically

5.1. Make It Contextual

5.2. Add a Twist

5.3. Pair It With Strong Imagery

5.4. Limit Frequency

6. Practice Exercise: Rewrite the Cliché‑Heavy Paragraph

7. Checklist Before Publishing

Conclusion

Share this:

How to Keep Your Writing Fresh – Ditch the Clichés (and Use a Few Sparingly, If You Must)

Introduction

1. Know What a Cliché Actually Is

2. Identify the Clichés in Your Own Writing

3. Replace, Not Remove – Strategies for Fresh Alternatives

4. Embrace Specificity Over Generality

5. When a Cliché Is the Perfect Fit – Use It Sparingly & Strategically

5.1. Make It Contextual

5.2. Add a Twist

5.3. Pair It With Strong Imagery

5.4. Limit Frequency

6. Practice Exercise: Rewrite the Cliché‑Heavy Paragraph

7. Checklist Before Publishing

Conclusion

Share this:

1. Discover the Quiet Moment That Speaks Volumes

2. Humanise Through Vulnerability

3. Show, Don’t Just Tell

4. Anchor Their Story in Purpose

5. Invite Others to Celebrate

6. Respect Their Humility

The Power of Recognition

Share this:

1. Discover the Quiet Moment That Speaks Volumes

2. Humanise Through Vulnerability

3. Show, Don’t Just Tell

4. Anchor Their Story in Purpose

5. Invite Others to Celebrate

6. Respect Their Humility

The Power of Recognition

Share this:

Balancing Ink & Life: How Writers Can Master Their Craft While Taming Distractions

1. Map Out Your Priorities – Then Align Your Schedule

a. Define What You’re Writing For

b. The “Two‑Bucket” Calendar

2. Design a Physical “Write‑Only” Sanctuary

3. Shut Out the Digital Noise

4. Master the Mental Muscle of Focus

a. The Pomodoro‑Plus Method

b. The “Pre‑Write Ritual”

c. The “One‑Idea‑Only” Technique

5. Protect Your Life Outside the Desk

6. Real‑World Example: A Day in the Life of a Freelance Novelist

7. Troubleshooting Common Roadblocks

8. The Bottom Line: Discipline + Compassion = Sustainable Writing

Ready to Give It a Go?

Share this:

Balancing Ink & Life: How Writers Can Master Their Craft While Taming Distractions

1. Map Out Your Priorities – Then Align Your Schedule

a. Define What You’re Writing For

b. The “Two‑Bucket” Calendar

2. Design a Physical “Write‑Only” Sanctuary

3. Shut Out the Digital Noise

4. Master the Mental Muscle of Focus

a. The Pomodoro‑Plus Method

b. The “Pre‑Write Ritual”

c. The “One‑Idea‑Only” Technique

5. Protect Your Life Outside the Desk

6. Real‑World Example: A Day in the Life of a Freelance Novelist

7. Troubleshooting Common Roadblocks

8. The Bottom Line: Discipline + Compassion = Sustainable Writing