It’s Simple

I have always said, one of the best things that ever happened to me in radio was newscasting on FM music stations. Why? It forced me to write concisely and succinctly; to get right to the heart of the matter. Imagine broadcasting the days news in 90 seconds? Oh, I am here to tell you, it can be done and done well. There is a real art to it. If you struggle to clearly communicate your message, then listen up- being concise and compelling in your story telling  is vital for success.

Start by asking yourself? What is this story about? Who does it impact and why? Write a first draft, and then go back and eliminate all the unnecessary words. The words that serve no purpose.  Rewrite it again and erase all the thoughts that are not crucial to the story in “the right here and right now.”

“We decided that we were going to the store.” “We decided we were going to the store”

Write in the active voice. Your sentences will be more engaging. Avoid helpful verbs.

“He is enjoying his new shoes”. “He enjoys his new shoes”.

Grammar experts are averse to adverbs. A good rule of thumb when writing compelling stories that will grab a listener.

“She quickly jumped off the coach”. “She sprang from the couch like a bullet from a gun”.

Try creative ways to always make it shorter. Some of the most impactful concise messages that are still as powerful today as they were when they were first penned include:

“I have a dream”

“I think therefore I am “

“Don’t worry, be happy”

“Think different”.

 Write with impact. Own your story.