Recently, I saw somewhere a statement that said something to the effect of, “If you can communicate, you can write.”
(Admittedly, I can’t remember where I saw it to give the idea proper attribution, but the idea was too powerful to pass up.)
I hear some incredible people say that they don’t write because they lack confidence in their writing. And I’m not even talking about something like writing a book (I get it… that’s daunting). I’m talking about your more run-of-the-mill writing.
But there are so many amazing messages to be shared, and in the world of social media, writing is a powerful way to bring those lessons, stories, and experiences to life.
So here’s why you can write if you can communicate…
Limiting beliefs around writing
Chances are that you still have some hesitation. You’re thinking, “Yeah, but I have to consciously think about my writing, and when I do that I lose the whole flow.” But there’s something deeper to that.
Do you think so hard about your writing because you don’t feel creative enough? You don’t feel confident in your spelling and grammar? Are you thinking about how writing makes you lose your flow while you’re writing just because it’s a pre-established belief?
It doesn’t need to be this hard. We’re going to talk about a few areas that will help you to overcome these common limiting beliefs.
But I also highly encourage you to practice this writing muscle. You overcome your limiting beliefs by taking action and gaining confidence through that action. Start with social media captions, a blog, freebie guides, etc., and gradually hone your craft from there.
We’re not in school
One of the most common areas that people stumble with when it comes to writing is everything that is engrained in their heads from school. They think they need to have perfect sentence structure, grammar, spelling, and general rules followed.
But in reality, writing that is going to resonate with your audience is going to be more conversational in nature. It’s relatable. It grabs attention. And it keeps attention.
In fact, copywriters are even taught to be less formal so that the messages they’re sharing are more easily consumable, relatable, and engaging.
People stay engaged with punchy, relatable writing. So start that sentence with an “and” or end that sentence with a preposition. The world is your oyster.
Clear and concise
Similar to your verbal communication, your written communication should be clear and concise. Dissertations have their place, but it’s not in everyday life.
Just as when you are speaking, your audience is going to want you to be clear and to the point. You don’t need to worry about putting in flowery and flowy language, and you don’t need to fill a word count.
And actually… “audience” is even a poor word choice. When you’re writing, it is more relatable and engaging to write as if you’re talking to a friend sitting on your couch rather than a conference room full of people.
You can talk to a friend in your living room so you can write.
Be authentic
Which leads me to my last point. While everyone has a unique writing voice, you don’t need to change who you are when you’re writing.
You don’t need to become some robot. In fact, it’s better these days that you don’t sound like a robot.
So be comfortable with who you are. Let your authentic voice shine out into the world. And remember that you can always edit later. Just get those thoughts onto the page!
If you’re still getting your writing sea legs under you, not to worry.
I help time-crunched business leaders and entrepreneurs enhance their brand through my ghostwriting and strategic communication offerings. Sound like you? Book a strategy session using the link below!
Disclaimer: This blog should not be construed as providing, or intending to provide professional financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. It is simply meant to share my experiences with those who may find them relatable and helpful.