Dear Mom.
I’ve been writing for newspapers for 40 years, but sometimes I get stuck on how to write a story. I write two investigative columns a week for the respected Dallas Morning News.
Those deadlines are tough. But I’m fighting the clock. I don’t have time for writer’s block.
So I sometimes start a story with those two words.
Dear Mom.
That’s a trick I learned from other writers. It works. It helps you focus.
I imagine what it would take for my mom, if she were still alive, to get interested in the story I’m about to share. How can she care about something that happens 2,000 miles away from where she lived.
My friend Kate Delaney, an NBC radio host, does the same. Only she begins her tough-to-write stories with a different two words.
Dear Patrick.
Her brother.
Whether it’s your mom, your brother or your best friend, try this. Two words at the top of any story. Works like magic.
P.S. Oh, after you finish the story, don’t forget to delete those two words from the lead. They are no longer necessary. Thanks Mom.
Learn more about our business storytelling workshops. Call NOW to book at 1-800-557-8166.
More from Dave Lieber on Business Storytelling Workshops
If you tell stories for a living, here's how to get better
For storytelling in business, here's how to ‘show and not tell'
Why telling your stories in three acts is best for business storytelling
Great talk by storyteller/columnist @DaveLieber tonight at University of Charleston. Touching, funny, humble, human. pic.twitter.com/RThPjrTkB3
— vicburkhammer (@vicburkhammer) March 18, 2015
Remember that you can bring Dave Lieber to your group. He’s an expert on storytelling for business and showing the power of storytelling to increase sales, build support, raise money and attract attention.
He’s a Certified Speaking Professional and a fabulous entertainer offering fun and funny insights to make your life better. He’s The Watchdog columnist at The Dallas Morning News.
Dave Lieber. Authentic. Engaging. Interactive.
WATCH: Dave Lieber’s 2-Minute SIZZLE REEL
WATCH: Dave Lieber TED Talk: THE POWER OF STORYTELLING TO CHANGE THE WORLD
BOOK DAVE NOW. Contact his office here or CALL 1-800-557-8166.
