Tag: writing

5 Tips for Finding Your Perfect Writing Retreat

The Writing Space

Write. Rewrite. When not writing or rewriting, read. I know no shortcuts. ~Larry L. King

Where do I write? In a quiet place. A place where I can hear my thoughts, the stirrings of my heart, my soul. I write whenever it hits. I must stop, record, write. If I do not do so immediately; in a flash, it’s gone. So I have learnt to capture the words as they come. Anywhere, anytime, anyhow.

Create the Mental Space To Write

Here are some thoughtful ways to create that mental space without spending money:

  1. Transform a familiar space into something new. Rearrange your bedroom or living room completely. Move furniture, change what’s on the walls, even face your bed a different direction. The psychological shift of being in a “new” environment can be surprisingly powerful for fresh thinking.

2. Create a personal retreat schedule at home. Pick a day where you treat your home like a retreat center; no work, no obligations, phone on airplane mode. Wake early.

  • Do some stretching or meditation,
  • Make yourself a special breakfast with what you have
  • Spend blocks of time journaling or thinking through your goals
  • Take a long walk,
  • Prepare meals mindfully.

The structure and intentionality matter more than the location.

3. Explore your area like a tourist. Walk or bike to neighborhoods you’ve never been to, even if they’re just a few miles away. Bring a journal and find a park bench, a library reading room or quiet corner in a coffee shop (you don’t have to buy anything). Simply find a place where you can sit and think. The act of physically moving through new spaces often helps mental clarity.

4. Do an overnight “camping” experience somewhere free. Your backyard, a friend’s yard, a balcony, or even just sleeping in a different room with the windows open (yikes)! The change in where you sleep and wake can genuinely shift your perspective.

5. Visit a place of worship or quiet public space. Many churches, temples, or meditation centers welcome people to sit quietly even if you’re not a member. Libraries, botanical gardens, or even certain hospital chapels can offer peaceful refuge for reflection.

The key is breaking your normal patterns (different sights, sounds, routines, even in the sky). This helps your brain step out of autopilot mode and think more expansively about your future.

Here’s hoping these tips will help you as they did me. Where’s your favorite space to write? Any missing that you would like to add? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

23 Ways To Fight Writers Block

I am struggling to get inspiration to continue writing a story I started. What do I do? ~New writer

Writers often face that daunting moment when the initial excitement fades and the blank page becomes a fighting nightmare. You may be many chapters in, or just past the opening scene, losing momentum is one of the most common challenges in the creative process. But the good news is that writer’s block and motivational slumps are not permanent. They are signals that you need to shift your approach. Reconnect with your story’s core or simply give yourself permission to write imperfectly.

Here are 23 strategies offered by seasoned authors. These are designed to help you rediscover your pulse and move ahead with renewed energy. Yep, sometimes inspiration can feel frustrating and out of reach. That’s when you dig deep. Adopt a strategy or two to use whenever the writing drought hits.

How To Get Back in the Writing Game

  1. Read books
  2. Keep writing
  3. Go for an isolated nature walk
  4. Relax. The story will write itself if you stop worrying about it
  5. Keep a journal for each project. Write why you can’t think of anything to write
  6. Free write your story until you get a flow going
  7. Follow the advice of keep writing. But be prepared to write stuff you don’t feel okay with. This is how you break the barrier
  8. Write for the sake of writing.
  9. Draw inspiration: music and movies. Inspiration is fuel. Don’t wait for it to fall in your lap
  10. Move. Exercise. It Stimulates your brain
  11. Try dancing
  12. Write one true sentence about your story and repeat it until you get some momentum
  13. Outline the next couple of chapters. Start high level then fill in details. Keep iterating. Often you find there is something in your story that is giving you doubt and this helps to resolve that too
  14. Go hiking with friends and bounce ideas off them
  15. Walk away. Write another book. Sometimes you need space to think
  16. Go on “Artiste Date” (solo excursion somewhere you like). This will help your creative. You need to stock the pond to catch anything worthwhile
  17. Add a new character
  18. Write another element: poetry, prose, scripts
  19. Keep writing. Some days it’s inspiring and exciting. Other days its drudgery. But you sit down and keep writing
  20. Do art. Draw, music, painting, dance, even cooking. Get that creative right brain firing on all cylinders
  21. Make a list of ‘why you like your story and why you’re writing it
  22. Write the ending and then go back and write your way to it
  23. Think “what if”. What if your character got abducted? What if another love comes along? What if the treasure you sought in the jungle housed vampires? Don’t dismiss ideas. Just write them down and then brainstorm it further.

Are you a writer? Is a tip or two missing? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

The Power of Paying It Forward in Leadership

Pay it Forward

If you can’t pay it back, pay it forward. ~Catherine Ryan Hyde

Standing in line at the cashier, I decided to pay with the cash I had on hand. The amount came to the exact dollar amount in my wallet, except it needed thirteen cents more. I rummaged through my handbag to cover the difference. The woman behind me said, “Hey, I’ll get it for you.”

Instead of accepting her offer, I searched frantically for the coins, only to remember that I keep my change in the car. She repeated gently, “I’ll get it.” I insisted that I would pay her back when we got outside. She simply replied, “Pay it forward.” Immediately, I understood and promised I would.

I left the store, found the coins in my car, and was about to give her a quarter as she exited. Then I was reminded of her words about paying it forward. I took a deep breath, sighed, and drove away.

How many times has this happened to me? I genuinely like to give but am always hesitant to receive. As I coach my clients, I recognize it’s important to do both—give generously and also be willing to accept graciously in return. One friend once countered my reluctance by saying, “Don’t stop my blessings.”

Leaders Struggle

This simple exchange reveals a profound leadership lesson about the grace of receiving. Many leaders struggle with accepting help, viewing it as weakness or loss of control. However, graceful receiving is actually a powerful leadership skill that creates deeper connections and empowers others.

When we refuse help, we inadvertently rob others of the joy of giving and contributing. We also model unhealthy self-reliance that can isolate us from our teams and communities. The most effective leaders understand that accepting assistance with gratitude creates a culture of mutual support and reciprocity.

Consider this: Every time someone offers to help you—whether it’s covering thirteen cents, sharing an idea, or taking on a task—they’re extending trust and care. Your gracious acceptance validates their value and strengthens the relationship.

Challenge yourself this week to practice receiving with the same intentionality you bring to giving. Say “thank you” instead of “you didn’t have to.” Accept compliments without deflecting. Allow others to contribute to your success. Remember, true leadership isn’t about having all the answers or resources—it’s about creating an environment where everyone can contribute their gifts, including to you.

Pay it forward, yes. But first, allow yourself to receive what’s being offered.

Maximize Holiday Book Sales: A Month by Month Guide

Effective preparation sets the stage for success and sparks creativity

Authors write, publish and leave expecting miracles. It doesn’t happen. Authorship happens mostly by accident as writers choose to share what’s on their hearts. It might be a memoir, poetry, fiction or non-fiction. As their passion unfold, they write then later realize that they have suddenly been thrust into entrepreneurship! How do they get those books off bookstore shelves? Selected on amazon? Shared among family and friends? It behooves them to sit, pray, and wonder why their books just remains stagnant. Most often these are excellent stories that remains dormant for years, not gleaned by readers.

Realizing this pattern, the Writers Group of South Florida held a workshop. Hosted by the West Regional Library in Plantation. This initiative was facilitated by Dr. Shelly Cameron. Here’s a summary of the takeaway points that attendees authors gleaned.

AUGUST – SEPTEMBER: Build the Foundation & Warm Up Your Audience

  • Update book cover, blurb, and Amazon listing with holiday-friendly touches.
  • Secure podcast, blog, and media features for October–December.
  • Plan holiday content calendar (mix of promos, tips, behind-the-scenes, giveaways).
  • Launch pre-order bonuses or limited-time bundles.

October: Visible Campaign & Early Gift Push

  • Submit to gift guides, bloggers, and niche media lists.
  • Collaborate with other authors for holiday bundles or giveaways.
  • Feature reader testimonials and reviews on social media.
  • Run Early Bird discounts to attract early shoppers.

November: Holiday Sales Mode

  • Run a gratitude-themed campaign for Thanksgiving.
  • Offer Black Friday/Cyber Monday E-Book discounts or signed copy specials.
  • Partner with local stores for Small Business Saturday promotions.
  • Send an email countdown series leading up to Thanksgiving.

December: Final Holiday Push

  • Promote e-Books and gift certificates for last-minute shoppers.
  • Run a “12-Days-of-Christmas” themed social media series.
  • Position your book for New Year’s resolutions or inspiration.
  • Post thank-you messages and celebrate your readers

PRO TIPS for Conversions

  • Author Branding Matters: Use consistent holiday visuals across all platforms.
  • Offer Multiple Formats: Paperback, e-Book, Audio-book—make it easy to gift.
  • Make It Shareable: Create “I’m gifting this book!” social media graphics for readers to post.
  • Always Include a Call-to-Action: Don’t just post pretty images—always link to buy.
  • Track & Adjust: Watch which promos get clicks and double down on what works.

There you have it. Did one, two or a few of the above stand out for you? As a published author, which will you adopt? Do share, we would love to hear.

Happy Promoting!

I Write Because….

I now write with that sense of urgency to get what’s inside of me ….I write because I have learned from the mistakes and mishaps of others.

I Write Because….

Jamaica’s Port Royal, A Summer Must Visit

A Port Royal Tale

When most people think of Jamaica, they think of white sandy beaches and tons of fun in the sun. Yes indeed! It’s all that! And if you’ve never been, you should!

But the island is more than that. It’s filled with rich history. A land full of learning. Oh yes, Learning comes in different forms. To understand the future you have to look back.

To understand the future, you have to look back.

After Calabash Literary Festival, I visited Port Royal, the historical site tagging along with my girls. A visit I thought ‘boring’ but agreed to go. My older daughter wanted her boys to learn about the land of her birth.

Boy was I in for a surprise! The rich history that existed in that place was unfathomable. Now that I’m older, I was able to connect the dots. Here’s a brief overview.

Canons and Pirates

Initially inhabited by Pirates, canons were evident everywhere. Captain’s quarters provided full length windows showing 360-degree visuals of views from the Caribbean Sea. This was a way to prepare for potential battle while enhancing supervision from all corners.

Giddy House

Giddy House was named for the feeling visitors get when they try to stand straight inside. It was an artillery house that stored defense items. Giddy house was struck by an earthquake in 1907 and partially sank.

Trees And Secret Spots

Hundred-year-old trees provided way more than shelter. Their magnificence can’t be missed.

Secret spots were noticeable everywhere. All conducive to the life of a pirate to protect, attack, and surprise.

Earthquake’s Effects

Sadly, Port Royal suffered the major earthquake. A natural disaster that sunk the area leaving remnants of what once was.

The sea’s backdrop midst the sun’s heat, was nothing compared to the learning gleaned. Our family walked away with rich learning of stories told and untold.

Fish Sealed Experience

A sumptuous meal of fish and festival at nearby restaurant sealed the simple yet remarkable experience.

Plan a visit. I hear the area is now a point of renovated focus for the beautiful island of Jamaica.

Cheers!

Top 12 Places to Donate Your Books

With so many books to choose from, you’ll have the hard part of deciding which one to donate.

On Instagram I shared the hard task of purging my books. I have a million with little or no storage space. But what happened was…. During my purge, I ended up reading and re-claiming books.

I decided to share my work (purge in process), and an interested person asked, “where can you donate books?” I responded briefly but decided to post more here on the blog.

Popular and Unique Places to Donate Books

Local Donation Options

  1. Public Libraries
    • Many libraries accept gently used books for their collections or book sales.
    • Call ahead—they often have specific donation days or guidelines.
  2. Schools & Colleges
    • Especially helpful for children’s books, young adult novels, and textbooks.
    • Contact local principals, librarians, or teachers to ask if they need donations.
  3. Community Centers / YMCA / Local Clubs
    • Often accept books for literacy programs, tutoring, or community libraries.
  4. Hospitals & Nursing Homes
    • They may accept clean, gently used books for waiting rooms or patient use.
  5. Churches / Faith-Based Organizations
    • Great place to donate devotionals, spiritual books, or children’s materials.

Charitable Organizations

  1. Goodwill or Salvation Army
    • Accepts a wide range of books. Proceeds support their employment programs.
  2. Habitat for Humanity ReStores
    • Some locations take books to sell in support of housing projects.
  3. Books for Africa / Books Through Bars / Better World Books
    • Organizations that distribute books to under-served communities locally or globally.
  4. Little Free Library

Online / Specialized Options

  1. Freecycle.org / Buy Nothing Groups (Facebook)
    • Offer books locally for free and connect with those who want them.
  2. Local Prison Programs
    • Many prisons accept paperback books only. Check with local chaplains or nonprofits.
  3. Book Drives / Literacy Nonprofits
    • Check with local literacy organizations or Rotary Clubs—they may be running book drives.

Vibrant Perspective

Crowded Airport when a woman exclaimed “I love your colors”. Adorned in summer colors, I replied crazy, right? Ahhh vibrancy she chirped. Vibrancy.

I leaned over and whispered back with a smile “vibrancy” and walked on.

I thought of that interface with a complete stranger. Such simple passerby exchange yet amicable. It left me thinking about perspective. It’s late evening and I’m taking the last flight out. I Only wanted to take a carryon to my out of state meeting so I placed the hot yellow necklace around my neck. Added the orange shoes with a red pants. But I’m known for that. I do things others are afraid to do, all with a purpose… my purpose to take one bag (smile)

How about you? Do you do things that perturb others leaving them wondering… could that be me? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels.com

From Manuscript to Bestseller: Unleash Your Publishing Potential

If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write.

Martin Luther

Listen to the recording here

Are you a writer with a story burning to be told, but feeling overwhelmed by the traditional publishing maze? Listen to this electrifying workshop facilitated by Dr. Shelly Cameron on behalf of Nova Southeastern University’s Alvin Sherman Library. The tips and tricks will transform your publishing dreams from wishful thinking to strategic action.

In this game-changing discussion, you’ll discover the exact blueprint successful self-published authors use to launch their books, build their audience, and generate real income. We’ll pull back the curtain on the traditional vs self-publishing industry, revealing insider strategies that most writers never learn—from choosing the right platforms and mastering digital formatting to marketing techniques that actually sell books. Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned writer looking to take control of your publishing journey, this session promises to equip you with practical, immediately actionable insights. Stop waiting for someone else to validate your story. Listen and Learn how to become the author you’ve always dreamed of being—on your own terms, with your own power. Don’t miss your chance to revolutionize your writing career.

Key Insights: Publishing Questions from Authors You Must Know

Many questions were asked throughout the presentation. Here are a 14.

  1. Should you use Ai for Book cover designs?
  2. Are authors required to let readers know that you used Ai?
  3. What is the full marketing potential for a book?
  4. How do you translate a book into another language?
  5. How do you negotiate speaking fees for your book?
  6. Are there any supporting groups to guide on how to format books on KDP?
  7. How can you hire someone to help with publishing?
  8. I’m doing away with writing the Foreword or comments on back of book. What’s the trend?
  9. Do you have resources to look for the audiobooks?
  10. How much can editors charge for beginner writers?
  11. How do you copyright a book?
  12. How do you find someone to edit your work?
  13. How can I get more exposure for sales other than amazon?
  14. Do I have to be a published author to be an editor?

If you’re interested in publishing your book, listen to the presentation and accompanying responses. If you need help, we are passionate about publishing. Reach out for help today and realize your publishing dream!

Happy Writing!

Monetize Your Writing Skills: 10 Proven Methods

Before you speak, listen. Before you write, think. Before you spend, earn. Before you invest, investigate. Before you criticize, wait. Before you pray, forgive. Before you quit, try. Before you retire, save. Before you die, give. ~William Arthur Ward

Are you a writer living from paycheck to paycheck? Do you want to take that dream vacation but your pocket dictates otherwise? You may just want to purchase that long desired goal but can’t seem to come up with the funds. Well, why not try to boost your income creatively? Here are 10 methods that can turn your talent into money in a flash (legally of course – yikes)!

1.Freelance Writing Platforms

Sign up for sites like:

  • Upwork
  • Fiverr
  • Freelancer
  • PeoplePerHour
    Start with blog posts, bios, product descriptions, or email copy. Quick turnaround = faster pay.

2. Offer Resume & Cover Letter Services

Tons of people need help polishing their resumes. You can charge $50–$200+ depending on your expertise.

3. Sell Digital Products

  • Create and sell templates (journals, planners, ebook templates) on Etsy or Gumroad.
  • If you’ve already written a book, turn it into a workbook or checklist.

4. Pitch Articles

Submit articles to platforms that pay per piece:

  • Medium (via Partner Program)
  • Narratively
  • The Bold Italic
  • Listverse
  • Cracked Some pay $100+ for accepted content.

5. GHOSTWRITING

Offer ghostwriting for blog posts, social media captions, or even eBooks. It’s in high demand, especially for coaches and small businesses.

6. Edit or Proofread

Writers are great editors! Offer fast-turnaround proofreading on Fiverr or Facebook groups.

7. Write LinkedIn Profiles or Bios

Professionals always need help optimizing their online presence.

8. Transcribe Audio for Creators or Podcasters

Great for fast typers. Websites like Rev or TranscribeMe pay per audio minute.

9. Offer Email Newsletter Setup / Writing

Many small biz owners want to start newsletters but don’t know where to begin.

10. Monetize a Blog or Substack Fast

Offer a mix of free content and a paid tier with extra goodies (writing tips, coaching, behind-the-scenes, etc.).

Did any of the above spark your interest to boost your earning potential? Any missing that you would like to add? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Understanding Publishing: Pros and Cons for Aspiring Authors

To write is human, to edit is divine.

Stephen King

New and aspiring writers are curious about the publishing process. As a foundation, it is important to understand the basic advantages and disadvantages of each. These two infographics were prepared as a comparative analysis to help writers understand each especially when navigating the agent-publisher-author relationship.

Here’s hoping it will clarify any confusion associated with the process and help new authors make informed decisions.

Which have you used? Traditional, Self-Publishing, or a combination of both. Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers!

Success Stories: 15 Women of Color Who Self-Published

“A word after a word after a word is power.”

Margaret Atwood

The publishing process can be intimidating for an unknown writer. The traditional Agent-Publisher-Author relationship is hard. Rejection after rejection is common as Agents say ‘no’. Writers become discouraged and often give up. Manuscripts stay in the darkness of desk drawers for years.

As time has involved, so has the advent of self-publishing. Writers become bold and take advantage of their publishing plight. They make bold moves; step ahead, take the reins to achieve their publishing goal of becoming an author. With low budget and unplanned expenses, some cut corners and quality becomes compromised. Book covers are mediocre. Titles lack depth. Formatting is non-existent, which leads to the demise of some great manuscripts.

On the other hand, some writers step out, work hard, invest, learn the process, and viola! Success follows!

Self-Publishing Success

Here are 15 Authors of color who achieved significant success through self-publishing:

  1. Toni Morrison – While primarily known for her traditionally published works, she self-published her first novel “The Bluest Eye” before gaining wider recognition
  2. Terry McMillan – Initially self-published her debut novel “Mama” before securing a publisher for subsequent works
  3. N.K. Jemisin – First self-published some of her fantasy work before becoming the first author to win the Hugo Award for Best Novel three years in a row
  4. Alexandria House – Found success self-publishing contemporary romance novels featuring Black characters
  5. Kristen Ashley – Built a dedicated following through self-publishing her romance novels before signing with traditional publishers
  6. Brenda Jackson – Pioneer in African American romance who began with self-publishing before becoming a New York Times bestseller
  7. Alyssa Cole – Initially self-published her diverse romance novels before becoming an award-winning author
  8. K.M. Jackson – Self-published romance author who found success writing diverse contemporary stories
  9. Nikki Turner – Self-published her first urban fiction novel before becoming known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Fiction”
  10. Beverly Jenkins – Started self-publishing historical romances featuring Black characters when traditional publishers showed little interest
  11. Sister Souljah – Self-published “The Coldest Winter Ever” which became a groundbreaking street lit phenomenon
  12. Nnedi Okorafor – Self-published some of her early Africanfuturist works before winning multiple prestigious awards
  13. Kiini Ibura Salaam – Award-winning speculative fiction writer who self-published collections of her short stories
  14. Octavia Butler – Though mostly known for her traditionally published works, she self-published some early stories
  15. Zane – Built an erotic fiction empire beginning with self-published works before launching her own publishing company

These authors demonstrated outstanding entrepreneurial spirit and literary talent often creating space for Black women’s voices. This occurred at a time when traditional publishing wasn’t receptive to their work. Many of these women went on to sign traditional deals. Suffice it to say they proved their commercial viability through self-publishing. Others maintained independence throughout their careers.

Need help to get over your fear to make the leap? Let these women inspire your journey. Thoughts about any of these or other women of color who have experienced success? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!


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