A-Z Challenge...Voice

We've all heard it. We've all read it on countless blogs posted by agents and editors, that key ingredient that pulls a manuscript out of the slushpile and separates itself from all the others.

What is it you ask? Voice.

Simple right? Not exactly. You see though voice is the key to making or breaking a story, it's also the toughest to grasp. I know it's a constant thorn in my side. There's no clear cut way to add voice to your work and no two authors utilize it in the same way. Think of it as your very own fingerprint in the writing world. Which is a good thing. It's like people, if we were all alike this world would be a very boring place.

So how do you find your voice? There is no sure-fire way...but here are a few tips that have helped me.

1. Read-read whatever you can get your hands on. Read the genre you write in. Read outside of your genre. Give yourself the knowledge of what's out there and how your favorite authors use their voice. Then think of your own. It's essential to know what's been done in order to set yourself apart from it.

2. Write-write whatever you're passionate about. Write what you love. Don't lend yourself to writing trends or whatever you think is the "it" topic of the moment. I've found that if I'm not one hundred percent in love with what I'm working on my voice falls flat.

3. Personality-let your personality show. Ultimately that's what voice is. Your own personality shining through your characters. Personality adds the spice and flavor to your writing so don't hold back.

4. Don't be afraid to rake risks!- Writers can't be afraid to put themselves out there. Be terrified, afraid...but then tell yourself this: If you don't try how will you ever know what potential you possess?

Still uncertain? That's okay. Voice is one of those elusive traits that one person will love and another...not so much. This is a subjective business after all.

Here are a few questions to ponder the next time those creative juices start to flow.
*Am I enthusiastic about my topic?
*Does this writing sound like me?
*How do I want my readers to feel?
*Will my story hold a readers attention? Will they want to hear more?

Now its your turn. How do you find your voice? I'd love to know!