Journal theme
Writing
Notes on the craft itself: shorter sentences, exact verbs, and knowing when to stop.
Verbs carry weight
'Led', 'rebuilt', 'negotiated' each say something different. Choose the one that is true rather than the one that sounds strongest.
Cut the scaffolding
Phrases like 'responsible for' and 'in order to' add length and remove energy. Most sentences improve when they begin with the action.
Read it aloud
If a sentence is hard to say, it is usually hard to read. The ear catches what the eye forgives.