Everybody wants to be admired. And why not? That is completely in line with human nature. From the dawn of time, humans have tried to gain power over one another to get the attention and admiration of others.

One way we do this as writers is to try and appear intelligent. We use big words or throw in obscure references hoping that others will think we are smart.

Sometimes big words are necessary, depending on the context. But for the most part, the best writing is simple, clear, and direct.

Think of the most effective communicators in history, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Abraham Lincoln, or Ronald Reagan. They used simple words, told stories, and made things clear.

The famous novelist Jack Kerouac said, “One day I will find the right words, and they will be simple.” Indeed, the right words are almost always simple, rather than complicated.

There is nothing wrong with wanting other people to admire you for your knowledge. But isn’t it so much better to have people read your writing… and not only read it, but understand it?

Today’s Challenge: Whatever writing you are working on today, review it to make sure it is simple, clear, and direct.