January | 2013 | Cathy C. Hall Writes

So it’s January–or the month I like to call, “Hello, Highlights Fiction Contest. We meet again.”

But this year is going to be different. Because this year, I’m going about this whole thing scientifically.

Yes, indeed. I’m using science all up in here. Well, technically, all up in my head. I read “7 Ways To Use Brain Science To Hook Readers and Reel Them In” and now I am in possession of seven super scientific tips. I believe, as we say in the business, I have an edge.

Of course, I suppose it’s possible that tons of other writers have read the same article. I mean, it’s a very good article. It’s possible that even now, these writers are coming up with scathingly brilliant stories with ridiculously brilliant hooks. All the more reason for me to get to work.

Time–and the Highlights Fiction Contest–wait for no man (or Cathy C. Hall).

And P.S. You could probably benefit from these seven ways in whatever you’re writing. Essays, novels, short stories, flash–it’s all about telling stories. And apparently, science.

If Gladys can do it, so can you.

You heard me: dust off your blog! Or your website, if that’s where your writing stuff is laying about.

Here’s the thing. The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to do a little house-cleaning. And by house-cleaning, I mean getting your web presence in order. (I suppose you could actually get your home in order, too, but I’d probably be the last person to give tips on housework.)

The best part is that it doesn’t take a ton of your time. Just check all the links you have listed. Do they take readers to where they’re supposed to go? You’d be surprised at how often website domains change names (or maybe not, if you’ve noticed that I changed my domain name here at the blog). And if you come across an inactive site or blog or link you’ve listed, get rid of it. There’s no point in keeping clutter around.

And then, spruce up things a bit! Have you kept the same old, same old links to your work? A visitor might think you haven’t produced anything since 2007! So add your new stuff, a touch of color here and there, maybe rearrange your favorites, freshen things up.

In a half hour or so, you’ll look around and think, “Wow. It looks completely different up in here.” And besides, you know how much everyone loves a sweet-smelling blog.