1. Pick one absolutely compelling idea and write about that. What is it about your work or experience that is so unusual and thought-provoking that no-one else is talking about it, and if you describe it to colleagues they become genuinely excited? Don't try and cover your whole approach, or summarize the entire subject. This virtually never works. Instead, pick one single riveting idea. For example, Joan Borysenko said: "Ancient sages said that walking on water was a simple discipline compared to mastering your mind." Then she talks about that one big point.

2. Be outrageous, provocative, fresh, startling. Dullness never grips an audience. Don't adopt a pedantic tone, with you as the teacher and the reader as the student. Instead, imagine yourself enthusiastically sharing your ideas with friends, and use that tone in your writing. The audience for these anthologies is very sophisticated and well-read; you can assume a broad and deep knowledge base among your readers.

3. Get personal. Tell your own story. What obstacles have you faced? How have you overcome them? What drew you into this discipline? What is your passion. Be self-disclosing, and personally present. Use the voice of the all-too-human friend, not the distant expert.

4. Pull a story or two from your practice, or experiences with your clients. What are some of the most touching case histories that illustrate the points you are making?

5. Make sure you're familiar with other writers in your genre. Quote them if necessary, but do so sparingly. Speak from your own authority.

6. What factors have you observed truly motivate people to make deep and lasting changes? Share them if appropriate, especially practical techniques for applying the points you have laid out to daily life.

7. An informal style is okay. Write first, edit later! Just sit down and write your chapter, without thinking too much in advance. Get your first inspiration on paper; we'll help you clean up the structure and language later.