Interlude: Generosity, Presentations, and Short Words
I've been doing quite of bit of speaking and teaching this year. And you know what? I'm one of those weirdos who enjoys giving presentations.
Sure, I feel nervous being in front of everyone (even virtually). But I "rechannel" that feeling of nervousness to feelings of excitement and gratitude. I'm excited to share knowledge and grateful that the attendees are sharing their most valuable assets with me: their time, energy, and attention.
I recently read an article that said you can overcome your fear of public speaking by "speaking with a spirit of generosity" and focusing on "helping the audience." I think this spirit is what helps me "rechannel" my nervousness. I feel fulfilled by helping others and being generous in the ways that I can.
What do you do to overcome your fears of public speaking? Reply to this email and let me know. I'd love to learn your strategies.
Now onto my latest curated round-up of the best tips, tools, and resources on scientific and medical writing.
💌 Round-up
💻 From My Desk
How Short Words Add Clarity to Your Scientific and Medical Writing
Many authors use long words in their writing. Often they fear that using short, simple words will seem simplistic and offend readers. But short words are a key element of clear writing.
10 Things to Avoid Saying in Your Research Presentation
To help you feel more prepared—and less nervous—during your next presentation, avoid saying these 10 phrases. You'll be well on your way to making a great impression on your audience.
📆 Upcoming
The Backbone of Manuscripts: Supporting Your Writing With Storytelling – November 5, 2022, 9 am Mountain Time
Are you attending the 2022 AMWA Medical Writing & Communications Conference in Denver, CO? If so, I hope to see you during my education session on storytelling as a key element of manuscripts.
👓 Reading
Atlas of the Heart, by Brené Brown
Although this book focuses on clarifying the language of emotions and the human experience, Brené emphasizes the importance of the words we use to communicate. I correlate much of what she says with how to write in a way that connects with readers.
An update to SPIRIT and CONSORT reporting guidelines to enhance transparency in randomized trials
"The SPIRIT and CONSORT checklists...are being updated to reflect recent advances and improve the assessment of healthcare interventions."
Analysis of Sex and Gender Reporting Policies in Preeminent Biomedical Journals
"There is a paucity of policies outlining appropriate collection and reporting of sex and gender variables, even among the most influential biomedical journals."
💬 Quote
“Don't use words too big for the subject. Don't say 'infinitely' when you mean 'very'; otherwise you'll have no word left when you want to talk about something really infinite.” —C.S. Lewis
💭 Thoughts
If you don’t have time to refine your writing, when do you have time to refine your thinking?
Thank you so much for reading.
Warmly,
Crystal
