By Michelle Rivera-Clonch, PhD
We often hear about the hazards of an Unskilled Inner Critic and, like most things, there’s more to the story. Our Skilled Inner Critic, when called upon, promotes a writing flow that encourages us to be calm, cool, connected and creative. We have access to both Critics—it’s about the intensity and frequency that we rely upon each one to help us complete the writing project.
By Hannah de Keijzer
Having your manuscript edited is a chance to clarify your ideas, develop your writing craft, and make your book the very best it can be. Here are tips and prompts to help you take full advantage of this opportunity.
Your manuscript can go through several kinds of editing as it progresses from idea to publication:
Not all publishers offer editorial support at every stage.
By John Bond
Podcasting is fifteen plus years old. Whether you have been in it from the start, or it is new to you, listen up. It is a valuable medium for published authors, aspiring writers, academics, and interesting people.
If you are not a devotee, you likely have a friend or colleague that says frequently, “I was listening to a podcast recently about…” Or they say, “Do you listen to XYZ podcast? You really should.” I admit to being that guy.
Podcasts now cover archaeology, the Royal Family, ice hockey, the Tudors, Indian cooking, and everything in between. I’d be interested in any topic that isn’t being covered in podcasts.
If you are new or newish to podcasting for entertainment or research but want to know more, read on. There is something here for everyone, and I have my top tip at the end!
By Dave Harris, PhD
The August 2024 TAA Conversation Circle on productivity reminded me of how much productivity depends on confidence. This insight can guide us: confidence can be built through practice. I offer some suggestions on building confidence, and thus productivity, through practice.
Speaking generally, emotions shape our behavior: the optimist behaves as if things will work out, while the pessimist behaves as if things will not. Metaphorically speaking, the optimist will buy a lottery ticket, and the pessimist will not. The optimist submits a draft for publication, where the pessimist does not.
Self-confidence varies for each person, and, generally, the optimal degree of self-confidence lies between the extremes: too little self-confidence leads to paralysis; too much leads to arrogance and an inability to learn. Ideally, a scholar has enough self-confidence to move forward with their projects and to present their work to others while also remaining open to correction when errors arise.
