111 AJ Harper on Writing for the Page vs. Writing for the Stage, How to Start a Daily Practice, and the Current State of Self-Publishing

“All that matters is that you are delivering quality content that’s truly transformational and authentic to you.” - AJ Harper (click to tweet) A book is obviously different than a speech. But that’s not to say we can’t use the stage to test the ideas for our written work.  When we lean too heavily towards one medium, we corner ourselves to the constraint of that delivery system. Instead, when we embrace all opportunities and let each speech or article inform what write or say next, we create that artistic synergy that audiences and readers latch onto. On today’s episode of Steal the Show, we are joined by AJ Harper. AJ is a developmental editor and publishing strategist who has helped hundreds of authors, from newbies to New York Times bestselling authors, write and publish game-changing books, develop significant and loyal followings, and build their brand. As executive editor for Collaborative Books, AJ has worked with Lisa Nichols, Les Brown, Barbara De Angelis, Dr. George Frazier, and many more. Listen to today’s episode to hear what AJ has to say about the speaking and writing mediums, so you can thoughtfully utilize each in your advancement as a thought leader. “Speaking is a very big part of developing the content for a book.” - AJ Harper (click to tweet) Steal The Points Very few people have the skills to implement a message-based speech or book. When writing, use the word “you” to connect with the reader. Trying to make things clever usually results in things being more complicated. Simplicity comes with mastery over time. Write every day. It doesn’t matter how much, just keep a consistent habit. Use the stage as testing grounds for written content.