To become a better writer you need to write - daily. One tool writer's use is called: Writing Prompts. Simply Google "writing prompts" and your search results will provide a myriad of prompt lists to choose from.
Sarah works from a prompt list every day. When I'm home, she'll invite me to join her. (Truth be told, I should join her on these prompts exercises more often). The rules she follows are simple: Write for 10 minutes using the prompt of the day(yes, a timer is important). I believe I forgot to mention that you are not to know what the prompt of the day is ahead of time. It should not be a word that you have pondered over all day. Other than that, there are no "writing rules" to follow. Simply write. Open your mind. Let the words flow out of your head onto paper. Punctuation? If you don't feel like it, don't use it. Capitalization? Your choice. Correct grammar? Ain't could be a word.One thing we do though is (drum roll please)... we share our writing with each out by reading it out loud. Awkward? Yes. Cause for belly laughs? Most definitely. Vulnerable? Oh yeah. Encouraging? Most definitely!
On November 2, 2014, the prompt of the day was: Be Present. Here's what I wrote: (Yes, I'm being vulnerable...)
The famous Seattle Fish Market and Pikes Place Fish created a business film a number of years ago called FISH. It was highly entertaining. Go ahead, You Tube it (or, if you're reading this in the far future, consult whatever technological device that has been implanted in your brain).
In the video, they throw fish around. A lot of fish - and they have fun! (The first F in FISH)
Asked about the secret of good customer service, one of the fun-loving "fish" guys made the memorable comment of "You simply have to be present, man"
A truer statement could not have been made. Great customer service is casting (note the fish pun) all of your focus and attention onto the customer, making them feel like they are the most important person in the world to you, in that moment.
However, being present goes beyond customer service. It's a lesson for all of us with loved ones; spouses, children, parents, grandparents, and friends. How many marriages, friendships, and families have been lost by the lack of presence? It could be the root cause of all our failures.
How hard is it, really, to be present? It's simply an effort to provide your undivided attention to the other person, in the moment!
The 10 minute timer sounded. Exercise over.
There you have it. As written. Unedited. Yet, underneath it all there is a truth.
Be Present
FISH Philosophy
