Page 35 - Voices-2022-02

comes into play more
than outlining. I’m always
surprised at the answers

I come up with when I’m
in the zone and not forcing
myself to solve a problem
or create words that are not yet

ready to be expressed.
Writing has been many things for me:
Therapy, an act of defiance, finding ways
to express myself in several genres. In the

case of writing science fiction and fantasy, I the best presentations
construct entire worlds that I can play around in possible. The joy of writing
at a moment’s notice. I love being able to create is in the discovery, not necessarily

something that hasn’t been seen or detailed knowing what the finished product will be.
before. Writing is my calling. I wake up with a Writing is an essential part to find your way
story or song stuck in my head, and other ideas in speechcraft. It can be note taking at first to
will flit about willy-nilly throughout the day brainstorm ideas and put them in a specific order.
calling for my attention regardless of the fact that Writing your ideas down creates a foundation

I’m supposed to be looking for a job. I’ve noticed for your speech which you will use to the best
a pattern in the times of day my ideas take form. of your ability. The end product doesn’t need to
In the evening, for example, I’m thinking about be perfect, and you’ll drive yourself crazy if you

superheroes and comic books, even if I’m reading over edit your speech. But if you can find that
something entirely different or playing a video middle ground where the ideas you envision
game. I’ve also noticed that nighttime is my match the conditions you set for your speech,
best time to write, though I’m otherwise very you’re on your way to creating something that
much a morning person. And writing has been will impress your audience. Leave perfectionism

an intrinsic part of my Toastmasters experience at the door, and your creativity will flourish.
as well, both in creating this column as well
as firming up my speeches in order to create

VOICES! | FEBRUARY 2022 35