After a day of work, of staring at a computer monitor, of responding to a hundred emails, of reviewing slide decks that teammates presented at virtual meetings, of enduring two 90-minute journeys to and from the office, what's better than watching an episodic period piece on your favorite streaming service?
How about reading and writing?
To become a better writer, read eclectically and seriously. Read like a writer, comparing varied opinions of thought leaders. Reading a diverse selection of news stories, political or philosophical commentaries, fiction, and even poetry will educate, entertain, and challenge you in several ways, including:
- You will uncover new ideas or, at the least, ways of expressing yourself about yesterday's, today's, or tomorrow's issues.
- You might stregthen, create, or reverse your opinions on global conflicts or local topics that matter to you.
- You will discover different writing styles and their value in their given context.
To become a better writer, write a lot too. Writing should not stop when you enter your home. Find time to write emails to friends and family, greeting cards to people close to you, letters to the editor, notes in your journal, or a chapter for your autobiography. Writing is a process of discovery: your interpretation of a story, your critique of a theatrical performance or work of art, or your reaction to a historical event. You quickly see an improvement in your own style.
The "homework" you do will reward you greatly. Not interested in a reading-writing challenge? Then watch TV and take comfort in the lack of development of your communication skills.
