Do You Doctor Dictionary?
January 24th, 2008 by James SchellmanI believe that growth is not an automatic process. If you want to grow, change, or improve you have to make a conscious decision to learn. Earl Nightingale says, “If you focus on one topic for 1 hour a day, after 5 years, you will become an expert.”
I am not so sure about that. I think I could spend the rest of my life training to be a comedian and I do not ever think I would ever be funny.
I like to learn; it helps me think. Every time I learn something new, I commit it to memory by telling someone else or journaling it in order to use it again.
About two years ago I subscribed to - Doctor Dictionary - and everyday when I open my email the Word of the Day is waiting for me. Most of the time I learn words I will never use again (they are much too big for me), but that is OK, they are helping me grow and improve my vocabulary.
I never have been the most talented writer. My gifting is in oral communication more than written, but I suppose it is working better than I think. My writing is improving; however, my book editor says I am starting to sound like a ‘college professor’.
Great! I am trying to become a better writer and I am sounding like some crotchety old professor and my readers are falling asleep.
Oh well, I guess it is time to work on being more conversational in my writing. At least, it is something to work toward. Who knows, maybe in 5 years I will be a little better.


I am writing to help leaders find their voice of influence. Plus, I like to inspire others to be their best. 






