Don't Surround Yourself with Yourself – Best writing advice ever, from one of the most successful, influential, and longest-lasting progressive rock bands ever

“Don’t surround yourself with yourself, move on back two squares.”

Chris Squire and Jon Anderson of the band Yes had it right when they penned those lyrics. This is the best writing advice ever, especially if you’re a memoir writer.

This song is on repeat in my head much of the time when I’m writing. It can be hard when you are hanging out in the playground of your memory, but it’s important to stay open and pay attention to others. Other ideas, other people, other writers, other books. Other people’s stories. As well as your potential readers.

Get your stories out of your head, yes, but also get yourself out of your own head. If you want to have an impact with your writing, edit for any self-indulgences.

Begin with the idea to “Take a straight and stronger course to the corner of your life….” And then look around – what else do you see?

Once you’re aware of everything around you and – not just your own story – you’ll see connections to others that make your own story that much more interesting. And you’ll begin to appreciate that “it's time in time with your time.”

Don’t surround yourself with yourself – weave in the adjacent stories surrounding your story, too. It will be a richer experience for everyone.

All good people (and writers) know this 😉

What song or soundtrack is on repeat in your head when you write?