Formula-based writing can net over $100 million per year in the U.S. Yet, this is not the only reason Chicken Soup should stir your interest.

Our society craves ladles of Chicken Soup for the Soul. Over twenty years later, reader buy-in is still strong. This is odd because each new volume rivals the predictability of a hit Marvel movie. Readers follow their typical plot structure without complaint.

Why?

Look. There’s a plan behind the punch.

• Write linear (no flashbacks).
• Tell a before and after conversion story.
• Focus on lessons learned from an author’s experiences.
• Notice the I to we pronoun…

“You read that much!”

A shocked, Black-American, teenager lifted his eyebrows. He ran his fingers down the smartphone’s electronic screen. His jaw dropped, scanning the many book titles on his teacher’s social media profile.

“I’ve never read one book in my life.”

This nineteen-year-old seemed to be speaking for the whole class. The class shook their heads as they talked about how little they read.

Surprisingly, literacy is not a problem of only poor populations. Well off families may not have healthy role models for practicing literacy either. Consistent reading has lost its value. …

“I’m sorry,” she says, getting out of the shower, “I’m just not in the mood.”

It’s so frustrating. It’s like you’re completely opposite. The stress of uncertain times makes you want to escape.

But she’s lost in a world of worry and bills.

Is this lack of desire more than the pandemic?

You dig for clues.

Your suspicions are correct. Look at that. Women in their forties would rather sleep than have sex.

Nice. Where will all this pent-up energy flow?

Keep reading. Find out how to turn this rejection into an opportunity for creative expansion.

1. Self-reflect and Heal

Look at the facts…

If you ask about heroes, some think of firefighters. Others consider policemen or policewomen. Even more, recall our military. Recently, fighting the Coronavirus doctors, nurses and medical staff are on our minds. I am grateful for each of these brave individuals. But heroes bring two tribes to my memory.

As you’ve guessed, my heroes often work unseen.

Teachers are my heroes.

Creatives are my heroes.

Heroes and Foes

Some question my choice. But teachers and creatives move through an exhausting up and down cycle. This progression includes a seesaw of emotions from creation to presentation.

Then, unprepared for disapproval, creatives and teachers often…