Around 9:30pm last Monday night my wife and I were having a discussion. It went something like this:
Nikki: What’s on your work schedule tonight?
Me: Well, I need to post something on The Sales Lion tomorrow but I honestly am not sure what I’m going to write about.
Nikki: Oh, I’m sure you’ll think of something, you always do.
Me: Yeah, I hope so…..(after a thoughtful pause) Maybe I’ll write about ‘success habits for 2012’.
Nikki: There, just like I said, you always do.
This Ain’t So Bad
Shortly after our conversation, I was sitting in my downstairs office, smacking the keys of my laptop, and pensively thinking about the habits that had made such a difference in my life in 2011. And as quickly as my fingers could type, before I knew it there was laid out in front of me a list of 20. With almost no previous thought of what I was going to be writing that night, the words were now taking care of themselves.
About 45 minutes in, the first draft was done. Never once had I stared at the clock. To me, it felt more like 10 minutes.
But there they were, 1700 words, and after reading the draft, a surprising thought came to mind.
“Wow, this ain’t too bad.”
Frankly speaking, I knew it was good. No, not a good as in “Look at my writing, it rocks” but rather a “These words have just been waiting to find their page” type of good.
Those of you that have been writing and blogging for some time know exactly what I’m talking about. Sometimes your stuff is just OK and you know it. On other occasions it’s ‘pretty good’. But then there are the moments when everything seems to come together and you look back and say, “Wow, I just wrote that??”
This, my friends, is inspired writing.
The Results
The next day, once the post was published, I found my intuition had not led me astray. Quickly, personal emails started coming in. Twitter started to bustle. And Facebook really began to work its magic.
In fact, in less than a 24-hour period, the post received over 1000 visits from Facebook alone.
For some of the bigger bloggers out there, this number may seem like chicken-feed, but for me it was a big deal. After all, I usually get just under 1000 visits from Facebook over the course of an entire month.
Within 72 hours, the post had become my #1 trafficked article ever on The Sales Lion, and had also been tweeted and ‘liked’ more than any other previous post. Furthermore, it was a lightning-rod for private emails of people telling me how it how touched them in some way, with the word ‘inspired’ coming up again and again.
Just Start Writing
I don’t say these things with any intent to brag here my friends, I only mention them to make this critical point:
If I hadn’t started writing, the inspiration never would have occurred, and none of the ‘good stuff’ would have ever happened.
Seriously, think about that for a second.
How many times have you said to yourself: “Oh, I really don’t have anything good to talk about today and so therefore I’m not going to blog.”
We’ve all been there—every single one of us.
Last Monday night, as I was discussing this subject with my wife Nikki, it would have been very, very easy to simply ‘pass’ on the article and look for lightning in a bottle some other day. The inspiration, at least at first, didn’t appear to be present.
But again, that’s not how inspiration normally works. In fact, the idea (shared by many) that we should only write and blog ‘when we feel inspired’ or ‘have something amazing to say’ is a complete falsehood, and it’s certainly not the M.O. of the majority of the greatest writers and bloggers in the world today.
The Key
So here’s my 2012 writing advice to you:
1. Set a writing/blogging schedule.
2. When the time comes, open up your laptop.
3. Once open, start hitting keys.
As for the ‘inspiration’, well I guess we’ll just have to wait and see if it decides to join the party. 
Your Turn:
You’ve heard my take, and now I’d love to hear yours. Do you only write ‘when inspired’ or do you find keeping a schedule and sticking to it is the best strategy? Also, what are the things that inspire you the most with respect to writing and blogging?
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I filed in, took my seat,…
{ 81 comments… read them below or add one }
Marcus,
First, congrats on the success of that blog post!
I absolutely love this post of yours, and expect it to be another winner.
I have found that the most effective strategy for me personally is to simply super glue my butt to the chair and start writing.
Day before yesterday I had 4 articles I HAD to write (e.g. they had deadlines), in addition to some VA work I needed to do. I was not at all in the mood to write. But an amazing thing happened when I just did. The amazing thing was, well, that I just did it. No fanfare, no lightening bolts, but 4 solid articles written in the space of about 3 hours.
Now I will admit that none of them were magical. But they will pay me the agreed upon amount, and keep me in good standing with the company, which is worthwhile as well.
I love the magical ones, but I think they happen a lot more frequently if we write regularly. The magic can’t happen if I don’t do the actual work, you know?
Since I’m adjusting to being home full time and am in a transition with taking on new clients, it’s going to take awhile for me to figure out my own schedule and how to balance private client work with my own stuff, but I definitely think a schedule is a good idea.
It’s like any other discipline, really, and one that I’m putting a fair amount of thought into as I embark on this new season in my life.
Regarding what inspires me the most — that’s a tough one for me to answer. My well is pretty empty right now, and I need to recharge some. But thinking back on what has inspired me in the past, it is often conversations that get the wheels in my mind turning, great books, or sometimes things that annoy me for some reason. Also, when it comes right down to it, inspiration, or at least ideas for things to write about are everywhere, as long as we’re paying attention.
Rebecca Livermore´s last [type] ..Why Do You Create Content?
As always Rebecca, you said a ton of awesome stuff here. A couple that I thought were particularly awesome:
super glue my butt to the chair and start writing.
Yeah, that’s exactly how it has to work sometimes. And you know, it’s really amazing what we can do when we just hunker down and make things happen.
Oh, and the part you mentioned about ‘paying attention’, yes, that’ s a huge one. I think so many people have ‘blog-worthy’ experiences all the time and for whatever reason, they just don’t ‘notice’ them as others would.
The way I see it, if I remember an experience I’ve ever had in life, there is a good chance it will touch someone else just as it has me.
Thanks for being such a huge support Rebecca,
Marcus
Oh I agree Marcus — couldn’t agree more! When I coach clients on their writing I find the first draft (of anything, whether it be a blog post, article, white paper) is often the hardest to get down on paper. I’ve found this for myself too because there is such a temptation to edit and self judge your own writing from the first word you put down.
I’ve read and recommend to clients Do The Work by Stephen Pressfield for just these situations when inspiration is not seeming to strike and the writer is all too ready to either throw in the towel or judge those words and be too hard on himself. It’s a great book — geared toward writers but can really be applied to anything significant that someone sets the intention to do.
Stef´s last [type] ..[IBW Expert Interview] Are You Afraid To Sell?
Stef,
Thanks for the book recommendation. I’m always on the lookout for great books.
One of the best books I read last year was Great by Choice by Jim Collins. One of the concepts in that book applies to this topic (and many other topics related to simply doing what you need to do to make your business succeed). The concept is the 20-mile march. I won’t go into it in detail here, but the basic idea is to set a pace that is challenging, but can be done regardless of the “weather” conditions. The point is to have certain things that you do day (or week) in and day (or week) out, consistently, regardless of circumstances, how you feel, etc. This is far more effective than working like a crazy person every now and then.
Rebecca Livermore´s last [type] ..Why Do You Create Content?
Rebecca thank you for that book recommendation — sounds right up my alley. Your description speaks to the athlete in me as well as the business woman. Consistent action is so imperative for success, so much of this is applicable across the board. Glad to meet you here!
Stef´s last [type] ..[IBW Expert Interview] Are You Afraid To Sell?
You’ll soon learn Rebecca is kind of awesome Stef
Marcus
Awesome analogy Rebecca. I’ve read Good to Great about 5 times, so this is clearly something I’m going to have to pick up right away!
Okay, so we all know how awesome Marcus is, and I’m sure Stef is awesome, too.
Marcus, you will not regret reading Great by Choice. I was SO inspired by it. I think I will read it again, just to give myself another kick in the pants and a good dose of motivation and inspiration. I love to read, so read a lot, but this one hit me harder than most — in a very good way.
Rebecca Livermore´s last [type] ..Why Do You Create Content?
I love being around people who liberally use the word awesome (lol)! Rebecca I sent you a friend request on FB — hope you don’t mind.
Stef´s last [type] ..[IBW Expert Interview] Are You Afraid To Sell?
Hey, Stef, of course I don’t mind! Just accepted your FB friend request. Looks like we have some good mutual friends. I look forward to getting to know you! And if you like liberal use of the word, “awesome” stick around here and I’m sure you’ll see it a lot.
Rebecca Livermore´s last [type] ..Why Do You Create Content?
Stef, I really want to thank you for stopping in here and leaving this great comment. I’ve heard of ‘Do The Work’ but not read it, so like Rebecca’s book, looks like another to add to my list.
Hope to see you again Stef and may your 2012 be a magical one!
Marcus
Hi Marcus,
I haven’t read your 20 life-changing habits yet, but I’m going to in a few yours. I’ve been late to the party a lot lately, but I’m chaning that during 2012, that’s for sure.
What you’ve said in this post is so true, and this is exactly how I ended up writing an entire novel (even though I’m not finished yet, I’m still working on my third draft). I started out with nothing but a dream. I told myself that I was going to write a novel in 12 months. I didn’t have any idea about the content, I just started out without thinking about anything than the goal.
So to me, it’s all about having a goal, and focusing on the goal. And don’t stop until you’ve reached the goal.
Powerful stuff Marcus
Jens P. Berget´s last [type] ..The One Goal for 2012
Love that Jens.
I firmly believe most folks underestimate the power of goals, and thus never reach their potential.
You’re rocking my friend,
Marcus
Hi Marcus
I agree with Jens. Need goals and they need to be do-able and achievable. Like be realistic. My goals won’t be like the Sales Lion. But they need to be ones that move me forward. And they are clearly defined.
For 2011 I wanted to build a new site and revamp my lavender blog. Did both … slowly but they got done. Had to make a big effort to just concentrate on these 2 goals and NOT go blog hopping or tweeting much for months.
I think a few people thought I had disappeared lol But I feel I have done what I intended to do and as for writing. That’s the part I really enjoy. I only post once a week on lavender blog and always have posts written in advance so no probs there.
With my new site I have a list with what I want to write about so plenty to research and keep me out of trouble
You sure are an inspiration and your presence in the blogosphere is duly noted by many. Thanks for all the encouragement over 2011. May 2012 be all you hope for Marcus.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavender-oil´s last [type] ..Changes at Lavenderuses.com
But they need to be ones that move me forward.
Love, love, love that statement Patricia. Good for you lady!!
And I think it’s awesome that you really channeled your goals and focus at the end of last year. Not enough people ever do that!!!
Marcus
This year I plan to plan my content so I don’t have to “find” inspiration … then the rest just happens …
BRAVO on a great viral post … what I wanna know is what was the conversion? Cheeky aren’t I? (Or just nosey!)
Ameena Falchetto´s last [type] ..Business Sluttery: Should I work for Free?
‘Then the rest just happens…’
Yep, that’s exactly it lady
As for the conversions, since the post, and tied in the the Problogger traffic, I’ve had about 300 opt ins this week.
Kind of cool
Marcus
That is cool … I’ll leave my other super nosey questions for another time!
Well said, Ameena, and a fantastic Picasso quote. It makes sense as I believe he created over 80,000 pieces in his life time
(and I’ve done similar 
)
On the other hand…
I’ve had lots of inspiration come to my while I’m meditating, falling asleep, getting a massage, in the shower, on the can.
Does that count as finding me working?
Jason Fonceca´s last [type] ..Do You Have Dysfunctional Or Healthy Energy In Your Relationship?
Hi Marcus,
Inspiration finds me in silence….but more often than not it finds me during work.
My best posts are forced posts. Meaning, posts where I sat and looked at a blank screen for a few minutes, before writing. Work at inspiration, I find this to be the case.
All the great ones note how inspiration hits them after hours, days, weeks, of failure, or hard, forced work. It’s almost like the Universe says: “You have to earn your greatness, you need to pay your dues before receiving inspirational ideas.”
You practice daily no matter what, and soon, the fruits of your practice flow out. You churn out 1000 word blog posts with ease. Why? Because you practiced writing every single day no matter what.
I love it if somebody says I am a natural on youtube….yeah, after shooting 800 videos. My first video? 15 takes. I hated it. But after shooting 800 videos, I am 1 take all the way. Same deal with blogging. People say I am gifted, or blessed….yeah…after 1200 blog posts, I guess I am. I paid my dues, saddled up when I did not feel like it, and now I can write posts with ease. Because I worked at it, many times when I didn’t feel like working at it.
Thanks for sharing your insight Marcus.
RB
Ryan Biddulph´s last [type] ..How You Can Prosper as a Cash Gifting Sponsor
Ryan, dude, this was one heck of a comment bud. The picture you’ve painted is exactly what folks need to hear.
After thousands of hours, you’ve become a natural at what you do.
Awesome man.
May you continue to live and work inspired in 2012 my friend!
Marcus
Hey Marcus, Happy New Year! I always have things to write about and when I try to maintain a schedule my work tends to disrupt it. I am one of those people who will probably never be a consistent blogger because I already have too many irons in the fire. What I am though is a big fan of things “off the cuff” and I think this is a classic example. You showed up and delivered, kudos to you.
Best,
Joe
Joe Hackman´s last [type] ..Online Influence and Klout Panel [Podcast]
Hey Joe, really appreciate the kind words man.
‘Showing up and delivering’ is really what it comes down to, I love how you put that, and if someone can do that enough, they’re going to find success eventually.
Thanks so much for the comment Joe and I hope you have a wonderful 2012!
Marcus
I love to write. Somedays I can write all day and then there are others where my focus is completely off. Whether my focus is on or off, I try to make it a habit to write everyday. I might write a paragraph one day and write a couple pages the next, but I must write everyday.
2012 is going to be my year and I am planning on some big things. In 2011 there were some things that completely knocked me off track, and it was hard for me to even find my way back in line. This year I am prepared for the worst, but hoping for the best. If I can manage to write everyday then I know good things are in store for me.
This was a really good read and I am looking forward to your next.
p.s: I know it feels especially good to get recognition via social media!
God bless,
William Veasley
I guess we all write when we have to. But certain works that we write are done better because of the time when they were done/ our inspiration levels.
Raj´s last [type] ..3 Simple Things to Remember About Your Content Strategy
Most of the time the inspiration doesn’t come until you’ve actually started writing some drafts and then realizing the first few needed some magic. Then that’s when inspiration comes. Well, maybe for me.
Nice post Mane man.
Josh Sarz´s last [type] ..The Lazy Blogger’s Guide to Writing Magical Blog Posts
I’ve long considered inspiration or the muse or whatever you want to call it the flakiest of guests. She never comes when one would like if she comes at all. There are no guarantees when it comes to writing. One just sits and does the hard labor of the writing. I also know that every failed piece of writing eventually leads to semi-successful and successful ones.
Erin Feldman´s last [type] ..Brick Walls and Forward Motion
Marcus,
The most inspired post is often NOT the most thought out post. The inspired post comes from your gut… from deep down inside you… from a place where only emotion lives.
I”m not anti-planning or anti-prepare. It’s the preparation and practice and determination of cause that draw out the inspiration and more importantly allow us the harness that inspiration.
If you were not so good what you do you would have never been able turn the feeling and thought inside you into that amazing post.
As always, Thank you.
Ryan H.
Ryan Hanley´s last [type] ..How My Experiment in SEO Will Change the Game on Small Business Blogging
I usually write when inspired, or maybe more correctly when I feel I have something to say. As you say we’ve all been there and sometimes got hit by inspiration or looking at a blank screen. What I find even more funny though is when you write something which doesn’t appear to be such a good piece and it’s even short and after a couple of days it becomes a permanent source of good traffic. That’s amazing too.
Having said that your post was really great, stuff for a self improvement guru. I mean something that a self improvement guru would like to write, not that you are one of them Marcus, I don’t want to offend you
, and so it deserved and deserves to be a hit.
But while someone who writes well can have a good level of quality almost anytime he writes to create really beautiful pieces inspiration is needed. I need to be inspired just to write an average post, you can imagine what would happen if I’m not in the right mood.
Andrea´s last [type] ..10 Affirmations or Intentions for 2012
The best way to write great content is to write, write, write and then write some more. Tell the voice in your head to “shut up” and write.
Too many people are hurt by the “paralysis of analysis” and let their fear of their words not being “good enough” prevent them from publishing.
Jack@TheJackB´s last [type] ..New Year’s Eve
That post was amazing! I loved the slightly different spin on the classic resolutions post! What I love about your blog Marcus, is that you have this perfect blend of presenting sound business advice but also sound life advice that can be applied to either or. I love your take on things and your outlook on tasks like writing blog posts and getting the work done. So thanks!
I can totally relate to this article. So many people just dont do the first step; put their butt in a seat. If you cant get your butt to the seat in front of your computer, iPad, whatever, then you dont have the chance to put fingers to keys and start nailing it. I have tried my hardest to keep up with a schedule of posting 2 times per week and sometimes it’s really tough. I feel like I have nothing to write about. The thing you need to think about is that you dont always need to come up with something entirely new. You can write that post on how to use Twitter or that post on how to start a blog. If that’s where your mind it taking you anyways. I find myself writing posts and then getting other ideas as I am writing. At the end, I end up with 3 or 4 posts just from one train of thought.
Put your butt in the seat. That’s the first step.
Christina Pappas´s last [type] ..My 3 Words for 2012
Hey Marcus,
I have found that my best creativity moments happen when I’m NOT actually trying to be creative or inspired.
This may be while taking a shower, taking a beer sip, jogging, on a plane while traveling, etc.
What I do is I’ll jot down my ideas on a notepad, then figure out which could actually be developed and then actually trying to write the rest of the post.
Sometimes it doesn’t works because I normally don’t even go back to work on my past ideas but I’m trying to force myself into a publishing/writing schedule.
That may be the solution for me, I don’t know, will have to try and see for myself.
Sergio
PS. Congratulations on such a huge achievement for that article you wrote, now I’ll have to go and read that too LOL all the best man!
Sergio Felix´s last [type] ..Quick Tip to Keep Being Productive and Creative
What I did not see fishing or parcheesee time in that list!
I haven’t read the post that inspired this post yet…but in posting my response to this post I actually smile and remember a friend from long ago. She used to listen in her car to motivational speakers like Tony Robbins. BTW this was 1993 it was on Cassette Tape.
And I listened to one. And I thought this is ridiculous. Don’t you know all this already? She said ‘Yes it is really logical but I can’t get myself to do what I am supposed to do’. I asked ‘Is this changing your habits?’ She said ‘No but at least I feel I am trying to change’.
What you have achieved is very logical and many steps repeatable Marcus. I sometimes wonder if the reason we get ‘stuck’ is because we aren’t in the right career or the right business. You maybe were once passionate about pools. But your real calling is marketing and teaching. It oozes from your posts. Really looking forward to more inspiration Marcus this coming year. Blogging/Writing is not a passion of mine but it is a tool that I need to improve my skills in which I feel will reap rewards that will allow me to succeed in my passion which is helping businesses grow and sell through advertising, marketing, customer service, and more.
I wish I could like your comment, especially your sentence about blogging and writing skills. That is all.
Erin Feldman´s last [type] ..Brick Walls and Forward Motion
Great comment Howie!
This is interesting to me because Tony Robbins is famous for generating results, and many of the world’s top performers and athletes go to him when they need a hand in their life.
At the same time, I know tons of people who get his stuff and make very little progress.
Not only that but Tony and I are in similar industries, and I would like to improve on what he’s done.
Jason Fonceca´s last [type] ..Do You Have Dysfunctional Or Healthy Energy In Your Relationship?
Howie, this was a really interesting comment man.
For the record, I’m actually not a Tony R fan, but that’s a whole blog post in and of itself.
But it sounds like your friend was the horse looking at the water.
My personal take is that I don’t care what means we use to find more inspiration/focus/happiness/etc…as long as we eventually find it. But yes, application is certainly everything.
Regarding my passions Howie, yes bro, you’re right. I’ve been chomping at the bit for a few years to move full time into The Sales Lion role,and now that I’m in it I’m having an absolute blast. It’s amazing my friend.
Thanks for all your support brother,
Marcus
Hi Marcus. Do you remember the first time you decided to post a blog, Marcus? What motivated you to do so?
I wrote my first blog to sell books. Perhaps this includes a desire to get my philosophy out there, where it may help others; perhaps it includes a desire for material gain (I’ve sold 27,000 copies); perhaps it includes the desire to be free, and explain my point of view to other folks who are like-minded. However, my motivating desire was to sell books.
Writing a blog is like attending a life-class on inner truth, seeking higher information about oneself. Each blog is a ‘first time’ for me … each blog takes me a bit higher to inner understanding than the last one. However, the real victory to me is selling 27,000 copies of my book, and advancing toward 50,000 copies so I can make the N.Y. Times Best Seller List. What’s the thrill? Proving to myself that self-release is sweet victory!
If it is to be, it is up to me. How delightful. I did it in the real estate world and achieved wonderfully. I did it in the restaurant world and achieved marvelously. Now I take on this new challenge, like jumping off a large waterfall, knowing the pool of water below is plenty deep to cushion me. There’s the thrill. It’s always like that for me. Helen Keller was right – “life is a daring adventure or nothing;” I choose daring adventure; which means i don’t just sit at home posting blogs … I travel to book stores and book fairs all over the country, doing ‘signings’.
The desire to follow the first faint whispering of inner truth is illustrated by the experiences we create for ourselves. The experiences gives us a glimpse of what we really yearn to do. Learn to walk, learn to talk, learn to make millions with real estate and restaurants, learn to do what it takes to climb into the N.Y. Times Best Seller domain. When I was twelve, I wouldn’t have expected any of this.
An individual’s only real chance of feeling fully alive is to face the facts about himself (he is unlimited), and then get out there in the world and prove it to himself! Such dreams are not tourist attractions (meant for onlookers who stand and stare); we must grasp the concept the mind perceives and do what it takes so it’s achieved. That’s what I believe.
So, I ask you again, Marcus, what motivated you to post your first blog … and what motivated you to post your first blog after that … and your first blog after that? When we know what truly motivates us – we act on what is truly right for us.
Blessings
Well done Marcus! Isn’t it funny that sometimes without planning and watching the clock you can produce good work. When I have a moment like that when I’m doing uni work I call it a eureka moment!
Harriet´s last [type] ..Blackberry Curve 9380
Thank you Harriet!
Actually Marcus, I’d like to just expand a bit, and dig deeper towards the root of the inspiration…
I believe the inspiration never would’ve come to you if you didn’t…
a) Desire to complete a post for The Sales Lion
b) Allow yourself to express it to your wife
c) Follow the signs to your keyboard
d) Have faith
Either way, I find this to be true for all ‘successful’ creations
Get in the zone, take steps in faith, and surprise people (sometimes yourself) with the progress; this process has worked for basically any legendary success we can name.
Love it man.
Jason Fonceca´s last [type] ..Do You Have Dysfunctional Or Healthy Energy In Your Relationship?
Extremely well put Jason. I always love your takes man, seriously.
Man, every time you respond with a concise line that connects, with me, it’s really encouraging. Respect.
Jason Fonceca´s last [type] ..Love The Famous And The Beautiful – They’re Your Leverage
Coming from a background of freelance writing/author I can definitely say I’ve been stuck a time or two trying to figure out what to say. I’d also submit there is more than one kind of inspiration.
Sometimes it was purely discipline that got me through and got something done. As others have said, when you have a deadline, especially if it is for an editor/client, you don’t have a choice. At those times, I’d say it’s a mix of motivation and inspiration that comes from starting the work and sticking to it until it’s done. Also, you may need to search a little harder to pull out that topic and the words you need.
Other times the project/piece isn’t dependent on such particular deadline. Then I think it’s okay to take a break, do something else, and let the brain work in the background to put the pieces together. Or there are times when a prompt hits you that you just need to express. That can be the kind of inspiration that comes from the soul and heart rather than training and discipline.
A lot depends on your writing goals and style too. If you’re trying to fill a site with helpful, customer focused pieces that will bring business, inspiration/motivation is going to have to come into play for sure and most people can achieve that/learn that I think.
The second kind is trickier though. For some it comes naturally, and for some it doesn’t. When you are able to draw from that soul driven inspiration though, that’s when your voice and spirit will shine through and you’ll find a different level of connection with those whom you are meant to serve.
I think it’s also important to realize where you are, realize both kinds of inspiration are going to help you, and “everybody” is not only doing one or the other. Figure out where you want to go, what skills you do or don’t need to get there, and then work with that plan until you need a new one. The inspiration will come, I can pretty much guarantee it.
Cheryl Pickett´s last [type] ..Peace & Joy: My Gift to You this Christmas
I totally agree with this! It’s always the blog posts I just write that come out the best. Sometimes we tend to overthink or overanalyze. But I’m with you…if you have a set time that you write and you adhere to your routine, you’ll be amazed at what comes out of your fingers.
Gini Dietrich´s last [type] ..The Art of Storytelling
We overanalyze sometimes Gini?? What??
Thanks so much for dropping by lady!
Marcus
Hey Marcus,
Since I started blogging I’ve found that my best stuff comes in the early morning. Sometimes is just not that good, but for me it’s the best time to write. So, every day when I get to work it’s the first thing I do without fail. First thing in the morning for one hour each day. If I get in a groove it is hard to stop though
I like the tone of the post. Just put in the work and it shall come.
Also … thank you for that kick in the pants the other day. Hopefully I can book that first speaking gig this month.
Craig McBreen´s last [type] ..Are schools killing creativity?
That’s some serious discipline Craig, it really is man. Wow. If you keep that up, you are going to write some serious stuff before it’s all said and done man.
And I’m always here to help my friend,
Marcus
Your call was a BIG help, seriously!
Craig McBreen´s last [type] ..I need some advice, now!
Marcus,
That is so awesome. I can relate so well to everything you said. Well, almost everything – I’ve never had anywhere close to a thousand visitors to a blog post, but I only started my blog last month. The “sit down and write” method is the only way I ever write anything and it works. I will sit down with the intention of writing 500 words and before it’s over twice that many or more will have appeared on the screen.
I think it has alot to do with your passion for the subject, though. I started a blog last year on custom knifemaking, which is a hobby/side business of mine and I had a great deal of trouble writing about it. I love making knives, but just don’t have the same passion for writing about making knives. Now on my new blog I am talking about making lifestyle changes to prepare for the possibility of unemployment and I have no trouble producing the words. They may even be words that are useful to someone.
Thanks so much. Everything you put on this blog is inspiring to me.
Tony
Tony´s last [type] ..6 great reasons to grow your own food
Tony, I don’t want to veer too far off topic here, but I just want to say that I love what your blog is about. I believe in what you’re writing about, in part due to first hand experience. The deal is that last year my husband lost his job, and we had an immediate 65% reduction in our family income — and to this point have only minimally regained that. We didn’t lose a single night’s sleep over it because we had made lifestyle choices that made it possible to still pay our bills in spite of a huge cut in income. I think other people were more worried about us than we were.
Rebecca Livermore´s last [type] ..Why Do You Create Content?
Rebecca,
Thank you so much for that encouragement. My blog is very new and so far the only comments I’ve gotten are people returning the favor after I’ve commented on their blogs so I haven’t been sure if it really means anything to anyone or not. Please stop by my blog and leave some comments to share with readers there.
Marcus, I apologize that Rebecca and I are straying far off your topic, but you are create community here on your blog!
Tony
Tony´s last [type] ..4 approaches to buying a car
(Yes, Marcus, sorry Tony and I are going off topic. . . )
Tony, I have some work I need to do tonight, but I will most definitely be visiting your blog. I actually did the other night, but was busy when I did, so I read, but didn’t comment. Will do so soon! — I think you’re doing a good thing, so don’t be discouraged.
Tony I visited and made a comment, hope that helps!
I don’t know your market, but I can tell you have a lot of valuable content to share, to the right people.
Jason Fonceca´s last [type] ..Do You Have Dysfunctional Or Healthy Energy In Your Relationship?
Thanks Jason. I appreciate the help. I also just dropped by your blog. Awesome things going on there!
Tony´s last [type] ..4 approaches to buying a car
I’m enjoying the conversation Tony. As long as it stays clean, any topic is fair game in the comment area of this blog…after all, it’s as much the community’s area as it is mine.
You actually lived ‘under-budget’ Rebecca?? Well that would put you in the 2% bracket of the country.
Yeah, Marcus,imagine that.
This is a huge reason I was able to quit my job recently. If we had a huge house payment, I’d probably be stuck.
Tony,
I can completely relate… It has become hard to write 500 word posts. When you get a passion inside you it can be hard to control the words. But you have to be in front of the computer to capture that passion.
I also find tools like Evernote and simply caring a paper and pen around as valuable ways to get ideas down when getting in front of a computer is not an option.
Thanks!
Ryan Hanley´s last [type] ..How My Experiment in SEO Will Change the Game on Small Business Blogging
I like your suggestion Ryan. Many successful people I’ve met or studied all jot things down in all sorts of ways. They really prioritize the act of writing in response to inspiration.
Great ideas
Jason Fonceca´s last [type] ..Do You Have Dysfunctional Or Healthy Energy In Your Relationship?
I think an inspiration pad of some type is basically a requirement for any blogger. Too much stuff comes in and goes right back out. I’m amazed with just how poor my short term memory is at times.
Tony, that is so very kind of you to say and this was an excellent comment as well with some solid points.
Just because we ‘like’ something doesn’t mean we can blog about it. In fact, I see many people start blogs and then within a month, they’re completely out of ideas and passion.
Choosing a topic like you now have is an evergreen, and you’ll always have pertinent subjects to talk about.
I truly hope you keep pushing, writing, and learning Tony…because if you do, you’ll make it.
Marcus
Hi Marcus , truly loved your post! Well to be honest, I am a beginner and not very sure what to write about most of the time. But you are right about pushing yourself every day to write something can actually give birth to some brilliant ideas, and so this on the list of my resolutions for this year! So thankyou!
Cheers and Happy Newyear !
You’re very welcome Dani.
Push hard!
Marcus
What a success story Marcus, but you and your blog have a success story all year – congratulations.
You are so right about sticking to a regular writing schedule. For me, it’s early in the morning and every evening after dinner and homework time (helping my daughter’s homework, that is)
Thanks for sharing your inspiration,
Alex
Incredibly kind of you to say such a thing Alex, thank you my friend.
Marcus
This is a great reminder to folks to just get down to writing. It doesn’t matter what you do to start but just start.
When I used to teach writing I always preached the gospel of it doesn’t matter what you do but just write. Editing is where the magic happens. Where you craft things.
My favourite quote about writing comes from a poem by Margaret Atwood: “A word plus a word is power.”
Jon Buscall´s last [type] ..Think Content Marketing, Not Copywriting
I may have to steal your Atwood quote. I also agree. Editing is where the magic happens. Writing is supposed to be messy. Editing turns the mess into something coherent.
Erin Feldman´s last [type] ..Write Right: How to Use a Semicolon
Dang Jon, that is one of the best quotes ever.
Love your take on this one man!
Marcus
Marcus
One of my favourite writing quotes is from a ‘pulp era’ crime writer called Peter Devries. he was asked if he wrote only when he was inspired….here’s his answer:
“I write when I’m inspired, and I see to it that I’m inspired at nine o’clock every morning.”
I saw in the comments above there was mention of Steven Pressfield’s book DOING THE WORK….I’d respectfully recommend THE WAR OF ART first. Pressfield refers to the motivation to sit down and do it – even if you feel crap – as the professional mindset. Amateurs write when they’re inspired, professionals write when they have to.
Another writing mentor of mine – a science fiction writer called Steve Barnes – had a version of this. He said that you should: “commit to the quantity and not worry about the quality.”
What he meant by that was that you should set a writing goal every day….say 500 words, or 750 words or 1000 words. And you have a successful day when you meet your target. Your job is just to ‘commit the quantity’ and not worry about writing ‘great work.’
When you do this you’ll often end up with something that surprises you….
(I could go on about the benefits of writing in flow and more….but I’ll leave that for another day!).
Good one.
Paul
paul wolfe´s last [type] ..The Maths Of YouTube – #videomarketing
Paul Wolfe, oh ye wise friend o’mine.
Love the Devries quote. Personally, I’m trying to push 1000 words a day this year. I know if I do so, amazing things are going to happen.
This was great man, thank you.
Marcus
1000 words a day is Steven King territory! He writes every day except Christmas and his Birthday….I once estimated that we were talking in the region of 16 or 17 million lifetime words!
Steve Barnes who I mentioned above also does 1000 words a day. If you can manage it, 360,000 words is the size of two BIG novels…it’s a lot of words. (Plus the amount you’re writing AND the daily practice will hone your writing chops!)
paul wolfe´s last [type] ..Prediction For 2012: The Death of The $37 eBook
Hello Marcus! well, I always write (and write also music, since I’m a composer) when I’ve got inspiration only.
As enthusiast blogger, I dedicate my time on blogs only when I want, while my job is music and often I’m obliged to find inspiration.
In such case I take time. Let’s say I need 2 days to create a single track score? I ask the customer a week. This way I now that, if not today, tomorrow or in 2 days the inspiration will come, and it always arrives. Am I lucky?
Manuel Marino´s last [type] ..The Variance Amongst Net Internet hosting and Domain Registration
I really love the way you post and to deliver it in the sense that you can attract the traffic. Thanks for sharing this one marcus, The key for success in this year of the Black water dragon in Chinese Calendar. I will just keep in touch with your updates.
Joana´s last [type] ..Solid Foundations for Better Vision
Hi there, I totally used this advice today! I’m a Toronto Chiropractor and obviously my primary job is not blogging but in order to keep my patients informed and to stay current, I have recently committed to writing twice a week. This morning I was scheduled to write a blog article and couldn’t think of anything. Then I remembered your advice (I actually said to myself, Ok, the sales lion says to sit down and start typing and something will happen) so I did just that. And it was done! Thanks so much for the simple yet useful advice!
Hi Maya (fellow Toronto-ite… er… T-Dotter… er…OVO…? Identity crisis.)
That’s a great testimonial, it works, pure and simple.
I also think it’s awesome that you got the extra mile for your clients, not just “heres a service” but, I care about you being informed.
Rock on
Jason Fonceca´s last [type] ..Victoria’s Secret Angels Have Dreams, Just Like You
Haha Jason, It’s Torontonian, I believe.
Thanks for the compliment! We do try to keep top of mind of our patients. In fact, our office is also on fb, twitter and google plus. It’s amazing I have time to actually adjust people! lol
Gah! I knew that. Thanks
And that’s awesome, Maya. Sounds like you’ll be connecting with a Social Media Manager or some extra-Adjusting help soon
If I know anyone in the city who might be a good fit, and you’re ready for it, I’ll send them your way 
Jason Fonceca´s last [type] ..Victoria’s Secret Angels Have Dreams, Just Like You
That-Is-AWESOME!!!
Maybe the coolest comment ever Maya!!
Thank you!
Marcus
Thanks Marcus!! *blushing*
Marcus,
Time here for a little introspection from me. I’m fairly new to blogging and am often guilty of the “what should I write about today” syndrome. Internally, I sometimes process that as the “who cares what I have to say” syndrome. I may not have anything earth-shaking to reveal to the masses, but am driven to post something. And that can certainly cause paralysis.
Here’s how I approach it:
It’s more that I have an opinion or perspective on something that might become kindling for further thought and participation by others. It didn’t take me long to realize that the best result from blogging and social media is not to endure a diatribe from an “expert,” but to partake in a conversation. A blog’s comments are as much a part of the whole experience as is the original post.
We’ve all been to cocktail parties where a guest self-appoints himself as the “expert” on a subject. He rants on and on, dominating the conversation, while the rest of us simply listen. It gets old real fast. Successful party conversations should be just that… conversations. Joe speaks, Linda adds something (maybe even disagrees), I chime in, Mary responds… and the conversation blossoms. It’s my opinion that successful blogging should do the very same thing.
If I fell victim to the “who cares what I have to say” syndrome, never would a word be uttered by me. I’ve been in marketing and advertising for nearly 40 years—that should count for something from me as PART of the conversation. Not a claim of expert status, but perhaps I might have an interesting take on something to add to the conversation.
So my inspirations for blogs aren’t necessarily “lightning in a bottle.” They are simply a point-of-view based on some experience or insight. I might suggest to bloggers struggling for content that they back off a bit on their “duty” to create stunningly original content. Observe, comment, share.
Could it be as simple as that? I welcome comments and responses.
Jeff Aronson´s last [type] ..I wish I’d said that!
‘Observe, comment, share. ‘
Nice points Jeff, really great thoughts actually.
I think everyone finds inspiration in unique places. And without question, commenting on other blogs and actually having ‘real’ conversation can be incredibly inspiring.
I like your methods Jeff, and hope you continue to find success with them,
Marcus
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