Interlude: Evolving Writing, Conference Networking, and Building Confidence
I've recently had an opportunity to reconnect with an old friend after more than 25 years. It's been pretty incredible to see how much has changed for both of us in that time.
It's also made me think about how much our writing changes over time. Have you ever gone back to read some of your first manuscripts and grants?
I actually use parts of my graduate publication as examples of what not to do in my courses. And my thesis? I haven't cracked that book open in many years for fear that I would cringe at the writing.
But I've been reminded of the value of going back to read our early writings (like going back to revisit our former selves). These opportunities can help us appreciate how much our writing has improved and inspire us to keep improving it.
So I'll be cracking open my thesis and reading all the nominalizations, passive voice, and long sentences that fill the pages so that I can appreciate how my writing has improved over time.
What were some of the writing challenges that you've overcome? And what do you still strive to improve?
Now onto this week's round-up...
💌 Round-up
🎉 Featured
Interview by the American Medical Writers Association (Snippet)
Last year, the American Medical Writers Association interviewed me to learn how the organization has helped me in my career. Check out this snippet of what I (and other members) had to say about the benefits of joining the organization.
💻 From My Desk
How to Network at a Conference as an Introvert
I'm gearing up to attend the American Medical Writers Association conference in New Orleans this fall, and I'm already thinking about networking at the event. If you're an introvert like me, you might find these strategies helpful for networking at conferences and other events.
👓 Reading
Effective hands-on teaching strategy on participants’ confidence in medical writing and publishing: A before-after study
"The workshop had a positive impact on enhancing participants’ confidence in writing skills, including using active verbs, crafting short sentences, summarizing main findings, and adhering to checklists like CONSORT. Hands-on medical writing workshops can boost participants’ confidence in writing medical articles and using optimal English language."
🧰 Tools
Get the Freelance Clients You Deserve (online course)
I know that some of you are freelancers who aim to build a successful writing or editing business. In this online course with The Mighty Marketer, you can learn some of the best marketing tools for freelancers. The fall session starts September 16.
💬 Quote
“Extraordinary results come from doing ordinary things exceptionally well for a long time. Take writing, for instance. Anyone can sit down and write a few paragraphs. There's nothing extraordinary about putting words on a page. But if you commit to honing your craft, day after day, year after year, you can achieve something remarkable.” –Shane Parrish
✅ Action
Open an old document that you wrote several years ago, and as you read the text, notice how your writing has improved since then.
Thank you so much for reading.
Warmly,
Crystal
