I recently learned that no matter how much training and years of experience you have, a hurricane can still take its toll on your writing - or your will to write. Although my house sustained minimal damage - compared to my neighbors in Punta Gorda - it was still tough mentally to continue churning out the top-quality copy I'm known for.



To maintain that same level of quality in the face of numerous distractions - insurance companies, roofing contractors, buying more materials for the next hurricane - I found myself relying on many of the writing formulas I've created over the years.

One formula has to do with the process before writing: research. Check it out . . .

Step 1: Surround yourself with the subject.

I find it hard to ignore a project when its source information is posted on my computer, taped to my walls and next to my desk. I make sure that the mission critical information is right at my fingertips, ready to go when I need it.

Step 2: Do the "mindless" part first.

Break your writing project into the parts that don't require creativity and knock those out first. Here are a few mindless - yet very important - duties I've had to tackle:

* Researching Web sites

* Checking source telephone numbers

* Transcribing notes

* Organizing key points of interest in the article

* Creating or refreshing an audience profile

All of these things are important, but don't require much creative pizazz. When I'm not feeling particularly creative I just knock these out first and leave the more challenging writing for later.

Step 3: See the piece already written.

One of the biggest keys to this step is speaking the article out loud before writing it. This is a valuable tool I learned while working as a newsletter editor - with tight, frequent deadlines - and it has served me well ever since. It may sound a bid weird, but talk about the subject as if someone who is a part of your target audience is right there next to you. This helps to organize your thoughts and makes your writing seem more natural and conversational. When all else fails, this technique is sure to get the creative juices flowing. Just make sure no one hears you - they might think you're a bit bonkers.

This three-step formula really gave me the boost I needed to keep my business running smoothly after the mentally, physically and emotionally trying days and weeks after Hurricane Charley. Even if you're not facing something as dangerous as 140 mph winds, a personal issue such as the death of a loved one or a breakup in a relationship may distract you. To keep your writing crisp, consider these steps. Trust me, I've tested them and they're hurricane-proof.