These times are unique in a generation – unique in several generations.
Many of us have time on our hands like we never had before. Granted it's not an easy ride for everyone, but if we take a moment to understand that it is an opportunity to change parts of our lives we do not like, then a liability becomes a benefit.
Maybe it's time to build a new skill.
Six years ago, at 40, I realised I needed a change. I didn't know what that would look like, but I couldn't deny my circumstances. I tried several new things many of which didn't stick, but I picked up valuable skills in the process.
Nothing was wasted.
One of the things I took up to a greater extent was writing.
I wasn't very good, and that's blatantly obvious if you read my older stuff. Maybe I'm still no good by some standards. Regardless, I kept up the practice.
Maybe it's cathartic or something.
In 2016 or 2017, I can't quite remember, I took a James Patterson writing course from Masterclass. It cost me $100, and although I could have found more important things upon which to spend that money, it proved to be worthwhile.
There's something weighty in words of older, experienced people. It must be tone, something in the vibration. Because when you hear the likes of James Patterson speaking about their craft, you know that they know.
It's a deeper kind of knowing that only comes from having fucked it up, broken it, suffered defeat, lost out, yet came out the other side.
That's what it sounds like to me.
No bluster, no glamour, no spoofing, no half truths.
Here's an audio I grabbed from the introduction to the course, and below it, a few screenshots. I'm recommending this course to you if you're at a loose end and want to learn something new, or add to what you already know. Or, indeed, if you just want to understand what it takes to write a book.
I'm still trying!
What's In The Course
- 22 Video Lessons
- Community Discussion Area
- PDF Workbook
- Honeymoon Outline
James Patterson Teaches Writing
James Patterson, the author of 19 consecutive No. 1 New York Times bestsellers, reveals his tricks of the trade. In his first online writing class, he guides you from the start to the finish of your book.
Other Courses From Masterclass
There are buckets of courses available from Masterclass, all of which come from recognised leaders in their fields. I've no doubt they were very well compensated for their time, regardless, if the rest of their courses have the same impact as the James Patterson course, then they'll be worth the $100 spend. Here's a few I've hand picked.
Annie Leibovitz Teaches Photography
In her first online photography class, Annie Leibovitz shows you what makes a stunning picture. She teaches her philosophy: how to develop concepts, work with subjects and shoot with natural light.
Neil deGrasse Tyson Teaches Scientific Thinking
Neil deGrasse Tyson teaches you how to think like a skeptic, open your mind through scientific literacy, distill data, and navigate bias to discover objective truths.
Margaret Atwood Teaches Creative Writing
In this Masterclass, Margaret Atwood delivers her first-ever online writing class. Author of The Handmaid’s Tale teaches how she crafts compelling stories from historical to speculative fiction.
Gordon Ramsay Teaches Cooking
In this Masterclass, seven-star Michelin chef, Gordon Ramsay, teaches everything from kitchen setup and buying the freshest ingredients to constructing unforgettable dishes.
Dr. Jane Goodall Teaches Conservation
In her first ever online class, Dr. Jane Goodall teaches environmental conservation. As she shares her research, you'll learn how to act locally and protect the planet.
Martin Scorsese Teaches Filmmaking
In his first-ever online film class, Martin Scorsese, legendary director and Oscar winner teaches storytelling, editing and how to work with actors.
Masterclass 2 for 1 Offer
Masterclass are offering a free annual subscription when you buy one. That means you get access to every course they have for 12 months. Pair up with a friend and get every course from Masterclass for 100 blips each.
View The Masterclass 2 For 1 Offer
Full Disclosure
The items on this page contain affiliate links. That means, first, I may receive a small gratuity if you buy from Masterclass using these links (it helps keep the childer fed). Second, I bought and use/have used the product or service and have received value from it. And third, I trust the source enough to recommend it to my readers. Just want to be on the level on that. 🤙
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