Published September 19, 2024

Exploring the psychology of what I consider to be heavy-handed editing can lead to uncomfortable moments for me. What led me to edit that way years ago, I often wonder. What internal conflict was I engaged in instead of improving a piece from a place of love and empathy?

I feel unsettled, pressed, even chased, when I feel urged to make changes just because I can, to blow the whistle just because I’m wearing one around my neck.

Some of that stemmed from working in newsrooms where, to be fair, there wasn’t time to consider whether so many of the “rules” were no longer worth clinging to, if they ever where. But that’s a story for another day. I wish I had learned far sooner how to let fresh air into my editing. I try to have a lighter touch than a lot of what I see around me and hear about, and to listen for the sounds of language evolving rather than try to do the impossible and stunt its growth. That’s also a story for another day. Many days, really. A whole series of posts.

There were too many times when I tried to copyedit the world. Now I’m fine with that typo on the menu. I’m there for the meal, not to work for free or be that customer and point it out. Somehow, the “mistakes” on signage and such out in the world feel like a comfort I have no motivation to unpack or explain. I pour everything I have into my profession, probably too much, but I promise you this: When it’s no longer my job, I will never think about it again.

A version of this post first appeared on LinkedIn. Editing tips here are mine unless noted.

Photo of person typing on laptop by David MG via Shutterstock.