V: Voice
One of the best parts about blogging is that it provides me with a chance to find my voice as a writer. I’ve written before about how important I think it is for for learners (both children and adults!) to have a voice and choice in their learning paths.
Each time I sit down to draft a blog post (or read someone else’s post) I learn something.
- I learn about myself as a reader, writer, thinker, and analyzer.
- I learn about topics that interest me.
- I learn how much I don’t know about certain topics.
- I ask questions and add to my lists of future blog post ideas.
- I wonder who will read the post.
- I think about how to expand my voice.
- I consider how to make a blog post that is more interactive, more like a conversation than a lecture.
One aspect of finding your voice is recognizing your audience. Writers write for a variety of purposes and audiences. Well-known writers are recognized by their strong, authentic voice, the craft that makes them unique in a sea of books, articles, and blogs. Unknown writers use their craft to ensure that their voice matches their audience. This is not an easy task for a blogger who sends words out into the void, never sure who might be reading on the other end.
It’s not easy for young writers either, but author’s craft is important to honor in all writers. Voice and choice are important when teaching writing too!
Reflective questions to consider:
- What is your leadership voice?
- How do you help others find their voice as leaders?
- What writers do you admire and why?
Abecedary of Reflection
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