How to Switch from Business Writing to Personal Experience Writing

I have worked in State government for 30+ years and have written everything from emails to business manuals to solicitation requests.

I thought with all the writing I’d done over the years that I could just pick up personal experience writing easily.

I was wrong.

For State documents, there is a brand guide that shows how documents should be structured, which font(s) to use, and other criteria.

When I began my writing, there was a whole new set of rules to follow to develop a good personal experience story.

Come up with a catchy title. Create a hook sentence or paragraph to keep the readers engaged.

Show my words instead of telling them. Don’t use the same crutch words over and over. Expand my vocabulary. Make sure the story flows in the correct order.

Whew.

But I love writing these stories.

I’m always jotting down ideas as they come to me and they could come from anywhere.

I have quite a few funny stories about my family when they are in the hospital.

However, I always ask permission to write the story and I never put anyone down or make fun of them.

I gather the elements of the situation and hope others can relate to something and laugh out loud or maybe shed a tear.

Business writing and personal experience writing are both engaging in their own way.

I know it won’t always be easy but I am making progress and am excited to continue my unique journey.

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2 Comments

  1. Hi Sandra,

    I love how you made the switch from business writing to personal writing. You did it in such a relaxed, low-keyed manner, that readers will definitely have the same sentiments. This is so great, and keep up the great job, and it looks so nice, too!

    Best,
    Sharon

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