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The ability to write well is a talent that most self-professed “excellent communicators” seem to think they possess – yet the reality is something a little further south of the truth. Even if writing isn’t your chosen profession, it can’t hurt to hone your prowess at the keyboard – and I’ve got four solid reasons why you should:
You’ll boost your career
The very act of writing a cover letter and resume requires the ability to sell yourself on paper – and once you get that job, those wicked writing skills can help you earn more. According to a study from Grammarly, people with stronger writing skills are actually better at their jobs and get paid more. So, get yourself acquainted with Messrs. Strunk & White, and get that money, honey!
You’ll improve your productivity
Going on the notion that self-reflection leads to action, a study from the Harvard Business School revealed that people who took 15 minutes to do a written reflection on their day actually improved performance and achievement than those who did not.
Even if writing isn’t your chosen profession, it can’t hurt to hone your prowess at the keyboard
“Individuals who are given time to reflect on a task improve their performance at a greater rate than those who are given the same amount of time to practice with the same task,” researchers wrote. Read the full study here.
You’ll seem smarter
Avoid cliches and overworked phrases like the plague, don’t use redundant, repeated, repetitious words, and for the love of all things good and holy abbreviate your tendency to utilize prodigious derivatives (see what I did there)? No? Keep it simple, silly! People who use language in a simple and clear way, are more likely to be viewed as more intelligent.
You’ll feel better
The act of journalling goes back centuries, and it’s unlikely that our forefathers were aware of the many benefits that come from laying bare your soul on paper. But there is quite a bit of evidence that suggests that writing can have a positive impact on physical well-being.
According to James Pennebaker a noted psychologist and researcher at the University of Texas at Austin, a regular writing sesh strengthens immune cells and helps the body heal from severe illnesses. Dr. Pennebaker also contends that writing about stressful events reduces the negative impact by helping you to cope with your feelings and emotions.
If you’re thinking about brushing up on your word-smithing, many institutions offer regular or part-time courses targeted toward business and/or creative communications. Check out the CCWWP Canadian Creative Writers and Writing Programs or the Book and Periodical Council of Canada for a list of schools, courses and other writing-related programs.
What are some other great reasons non-writers should boost their skills? We’d like to hear from you! Leave your comments in the section below.