As a wellness professional, you need more than a few thought leader editing tips to take your business to the next level. Yet, quality editing is a key component of connecting with and positively influencing potential, clients, patients or professional partners.
might share powerful videos, images, and infographics that influence people to adopt healthy lifestyle changes. Yet, your words are your greatest tool in communicating your message to the world. Whether you’re scripting a video, writing a blog post, planning an email newsletter, or finalizing social media content, you have an opportunity to reflect your health philosophy to those around you.
As you boldly share your philosophy and experiences online, you create relationships with people who see you as a thought leader. This dynamic opens up doors for your business and for your online community’s personal wellness.
On the other hand, if your writing is unclear or overwhelming, how will you take the lead on important conversations in the health field? Use this guide to declutter your thoughts and refine your writing, so your content aligns with your health perspective and speaks directly to your ideal audience.
Step-by-Step Editing Order
When you follow a gradual editing process, you’ll not only polish your content but also strengthen its focus, flow, and connection with your audience. Taking it step by step prevents overwhelm and makes the process feel clear and manageable. A key part of this approach is incubation: giving your ideas time to settle before refining them.
Stepping away from your draft, even briefly, allows you to return with fresh eyes and a sharper perspective. Instead of forcing a final version too soon, you’ll let your thoughts mature naturally, leading to stronger, more intentional writing.
Here are the thought leaders editing tips you’ll move through:
- Core message
- Structure
- Tone and style
- Grammar and punctuation
- Concision
- Elaboration
- Repeat the cycle
Core Message
Clarify the central idea of the content. Does it align with your values and health philosophy?
The core message is the heart of your content. It’s the main takeaway you want your audience to leave with. Think about your message like a beacon that guides your reader. Does your content reflect this?
Nutrition Coach Example:
Before: “There are lots of ways to eat healthy, and everyone’s path looks different. Some people like to meal prep, others just try to eat better when they can. It’s all about balance.”
After: “Whole foods have the power to nourish your body in ways processed foods never can. Even small changes – like adding more fresh produce or whole grains – can spark a lasting transformation in your health.”
Yoga Teacher Example:
Before: “Yoga is popular for a lot of reasons. It’s a good workout, it can help with stress, and some people find it relaxing. There’s no right or wrong way to do it.”
After: “Mindful movement isn’t just physical; it’s a spiritual practice that aligns the mind, body, and soul. Embracing stillness through yoga allows for growth and healing.”
Energy Healer Example:
Before: “There are lots of approaches to healing. Some people try meditation, others focus on diet, and some turn to energy work. It’s all about finding what feels right for you.”
After: “Healing starts within. When you restore the energy flow in your body, you open the door to better health, mental clarity, and emotional peace.”
Holistic Chiropractor Example:
Before: “Feeling your best can come from many different things, whether it’s staying active, eating well, or getting the right kind of physical support when you need it.”
After: “True wellness is achieved when the body’s nervous system is balanced and the spine is aligned, supporting optimal function for your health.”
Fitness Trainer Example:
Before: “Exercise is important for staying healthy. Whether you go to the gym, walk your dog, or just try to move more, it all counts. Fitness can mean different things to different people.”
After: “Your fitness journey consists of strength and resilience, not just physical appearance. As you improve your fitness you build habits that last a lifetime.”
Structure
Does your content flow logically, making it easy for readers to follow your ideas?
The structure of your content is just as important as the message itself. Organize your writing so that each idea naturally leads to the next. Readers should be able to follow along without confusion.
Wellness Center Example:
Introduction: Briefly introduce a common wellness struggle (e.g., stress, lack of energy).
Middle: Provide practical solutions that include a holistic approach: nutrition, movement, and mindset.
Conclusion: Wrap up with a call to action (e.g., “Schedule your free consultation to discover your personalized wellness plan”).
Herbalist Example:
Introduction: Discuss a common health issue (e.g., digestive problems).
Middle: Share information on specific herbs that support digestion and their benefits.
Conclusion: Invite the reader to try an herbal remedy or book a consultation for a custom blend.
Mental Health Therapist Example:
Introduction: Acknowledge the importance of mental health awareness.
Middle: Outline specific practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques.
Conclusion: Encourage readers to take the first step in seeking support for mental health.
Massage Therapist Example:
Introduction: Describe common aches and pains people experience in daily life.
Middle: Discuss how massage therapy can relieve tension and improve well-being.
Conclusion: Offer a special discount for first-time clients to book a session.
Chiropractor Example:
Introduction: Highlight a common problem, like chronic back pain or poor posture from desk work.
Middle: Explain how chiropractic adjustments can align the spine, improve posture, and reduce discomfort. Share a case study or success story if possible.
Conclusion: Invite readers to book an assessment and learn how chiropractic care can improve their quality of life.
Tone and Style
Does the tone match your brand’s voice? Is it consistent throughout?
Your tone is the personality of your writing. It should reflect your brand’s values and resonate with your audience. Consistency is key.
Meditation Guide Example:
Tone: Calm, peaceful, and reassuring. Use gentle language that evokes relaxation.
“Allow yourself to settle into this moment, trusting that the peace you seek is already within you.”
Fitness Coach Example:
Tone: Motivating, energetic, and empowering.
“You have everything you need to succeed! Push through today and feel the transformation that follows.”
Naturopathic Doctor Example:
Tone: Informative and supportive, offering natural solutions to health problems.
“Let’s explore holistic approaches that can support your body’s healing process naturally, focusing on prevention and empowerment.”
Wellness Blogger Example:
Tone: Relatable, conversational, and encouraging.
“You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Small steps each day will help you feel more vibrant and balanced.”
Yoga Instructor Example:
Tone: Grounding, inspiring, and mindful.
“Each breath is an opportunity to create space, both in your body and in your life. Let’s flow together and embrace the journey of self-discovery.”
Grammar and Punctuation
Review basic grammar, spelling, and punctuation for clarity and professionalism.
This is the technical part of editing that ensures your writing is clear and polished. Good grammar and punctuation show professionalism and improve readability.
Health Coach Example:
Incorrect: “My clients have seen amazing results when they adopt a plant based diet.”
Corrected: “My clients have seen amazing results when they adopt a plant-based diet.”
Acupuncturist Example:
Incorrect: “Acupuncture helps treat pain by increasing blood flow.”
Corrected: “Acupuncture helps treat pain by increasing circulation and promoting healing.”
Sleep Specialist Example:
Incorrect: “Sleep hygiene is important for improving the quality of your sleep, but it’s also essential for your mental health”
Corrected: “Sleep hygiene is crucial not only for improving the quality of your sleep but also for maintaining mental health.”
Personal Trainer Example:
Incorrect: “You should workout everyday for 60 minutes to see real changes.”
Corrected: “Aim to work out at least 4-5 times a week for 30-45 minutes to see noticeable changes.”
Nutritionist Example:
Incorrect: “Eating balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins are essential for overall health.”
Corrected: “Eating balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins is essential for overall health.”
Concision
Cut out unnecessary words or overly complicated sentences.
Concision ensures your writing is efficient and to the point. Avoid unnecessary filler words, redundant phrases, and overly complex sentences.
Nutritionist Example:
Unnecessary: “A diet based on whole foods is a great way to boost digestion, energy levels, and the overall strength of your immune system.”
Concise: “A whole foods-based diet boosts digestion, energy, and immunity.”
Holistic Health Practitioner Example:
Unnecessary: “When you integrate both mental and physical healing, you create balance in your life, leading to overall wellness.”
Concise: “Integrating mental and physical healing fosters balance and wellness.”
Life Coach Example:
Unnecessary: “The key to long-lasting success is to start with small actions and stay consistent.”
Concise: “Start small and stay consistent.”
Massage Therapist Example:
Unnecessary: “Getting massages on a regular basis can help reduce the amount of stress you feel and relieve tension in your body.”
Concise: “Regular massages reduce stress and relieve tension.”
Yoga Instructor Example:
Unnecessary: “Practicing yoga is a great way to improve your body’s flexibility, build strength, and achieve a sense of inner peace.”
Concise: “Yoga improves flexibility, strength, and peace of mind.”
Elaboration
Add more explanation, examples, or analogies to clarify your message.
Sometimes elaboration is necessary to provide deeper context, especially if the reader may need more examples to fully grasp your point. This step allows you to expand on your ideas, provide relatable examples, or use analogies.
Esthetician Example:
Concise: “Consistent skincare protects your skin barrier and prevents premature aging.”
Expanded for Clarity: “Following a consistent skincare routine helps protect your skin barrier, keeping moisture in and irritants out. This protection is key to preventing premature aging, reducing inflammation, and maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion. For example, using a gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, and broad-spectrum sunscreen daily supports your skin’s long-term health.”
Holistic Health Practitioner Example:
Concise: “Integrating mental and physical healing fosters balance and wellness.”
Expanded for Clarity: “When you take a holistic approach to health, addressing both your physical and mental well-being, you create a balanced foundation for wellness. For instance, yoga and meditation not only strengthen your body but also reduce stress and improve mental clarity.”
Life Coach Example:
Concise: “Start small and stay consistent.”
Expanded for Clarity: “The key to lasting transformation is starting small and being consistent. If your goal is to run a 5K, begin by walking daily for 15 minutes, gradually increasing your time and distance. This way, you’ll build a sustainable habit rather than overwhelming yourself with too much too soon.”
Functional Medicine Practitioner Example:
Concise: “Functional medicine addresses the root causes of disease.”
Expanded for Clarity: “Functional medicine looks beyond symptoms to address the root causes of disease. If you’re specifically struggling with chronic fatigue, instead of simply prescribing a stimulant, we’ll investigate your diet, stress levels, sleep patterns, and nutrient deficiencies to uncover the true cause of your energy loss.”
Reiki Practitioner Example:
Concise: “Reiki promotes relaxation and energy balance.”
Expanded for Clarity: “Reiki is a healing practice that promotes deep relaxation and restores balance to your energy. For example, during a session, you might feel warmth or tingling sensations as blocked energy pathways open, helping to reduce stress and enhance your overall sense of well-being.”
Repeat the Cycle
Use these thought leader editing tips on repeat.
After making edits, revisit the piece with fresh eyes. This final review helps ensure that your revisions have strengthened your message without compromising your voice. Here are a few scenarios that illustrate the power of revisiting and refining content to achieve clarity and impact:
A Birth Doula Writing Client Resources:
A birth doula drafts a resource guide for expecting parents, offering tips on childbirth preparation and labor support. After finishing the first draft, they decide to take a break and handle other tasks. Upon revisiting the content, they realize that while the information is valuable, it may sound too clinical and intimidating for first-time parents. They simplify the language, adding comforting and empowering language that encourages parents to trust their bodies and their doula’s support. This final review ensures the guide feels approachable and empowering for expecting families, guiding them through an emotional and transformative experience.
A Health Coach Creating a Client Newsletter:
A health coach spends the morning drafting a newsletter filled with tips and advice on holistic wellness. After completing the first draft, they decide to take a walk or do something unrelated to work. Upon returning, they review the content and realize that while the advice is solid, some of the transitions between sections feel a bit jarring. They adjust the wording to create smoother transitions, making sure the message flows seamlessly from one section to the next. This revisiting of the content ensures that the newsletter inspires and motivates their audience.
A Massage Therapist Updating Their Website Content:
A massage therapist updates the copy on their website, adding information about new services. After completing the initial revisions, they leave the content for a few hours. Upon revisiting, they realize that some sentences are too technical for new clients who may not be familiar with massage terms. They simplify the language to make it more approachable while keeping the professional tone intact. By repeating the cycle and revisiting their work, they ensure the content remains welcoming and clear for their audience.
A Yoga Instructor Creating an Online Class Description:
A yoga instructor writes a description for an online course but feels unsure if it conveys the essence of their teaching style. They take a break from writing, allowing some time to think about the goals of their course. After revisiting the description, they adjust the language to reflect the core values of their practice: gentleness, empowerment, and mindfulness. This allows the content to resonate more authentically with potential students, making it clear what they can expect from the course.
In each of these scenarios, revisiting the content after a break allows the creator to identify areas for improvement, ensuring that their message is clear, cohesive, and impactful. It’s a crucial part of the editing process, allowing ideas to evolve and ensuring that the final product is polished and effective.
Thought Leadership
Become the go-to expert in your field.
Thought leadership shapes conversations, influences trends, and delivers unique insights that establish your expertise. In the health and wellness industry, it offers fresh perspectives, guides your audience through challenges, and consistently provides high-quality, reliable content that builds trust and credibility.
1. Establishing Your Unique Perspective
To become a thought leader, it’s essential to offer a unique viewpoint on common topics in your field. This is not the time to repeat information for the sake of ease. (Prime example: I wouldn’t have published these thought leader editing tips if they weren’t truly needed by my target audience.) Trust yourself enough to contribute new ideas, frameworks, and solutions that will likely inspire and resonate with your audience.
How editing can help: When editing your content, focus on sharpening your unique angle. Remove vague advice or generic statements that don’t add value. Instead, dive deeper into your professional experiences, case studies, and recent research that aligns with your human health philosophy.
2. Building Credibility and Trust
Trust is the cornerstone of thought leadership. Your audience needs to believe that you have the knowledge, expertise, and experience to guide them. When you produce high-quality, reliable content, you’re showing that you are not only educated but that you care about providing accurate, actionable insights.
How editing can help: Editing ensures that your content is precise, well-researched, and error-free. As a health and wellness business owner, your audience is looking for reliable information. Make sure your writing reflects your credibility by eliminating any errors in facts, spelling, or grammar.
3. Consistency and Visibility
To become a recognized thought leader, you need to show up consistently in your niche. Whether it’s through blog posts, podcasts, or social media, the key to being seen as a thought leader is frequent and reliable communication. You must position yourself in front of your audience regularly; do not disappear for months at a time.
How editing can help: Editing is key in ensuring that your content is consistently strong across every platform. Each piece you put out should reflect your brand voice and maintain a high standard of quality. Even when writing quickly, be sure that your content still matches your thought leadership aspirations.
Bonus Thought Leader Editing Tips
Are you overlooking these common grammar mistakes that interrupt the reader’s flow?
Even experienced writers can overlook minor grammar mistakes, which can disrupt the reader’s experience and lower the impact of your message. In this section, we’ll highlight common grammar errors that can interrupt your online growth as a thought leader.
Sentence Fragments
What it is: A sentence fragment is an incomplete sentence that does not express a complete thought.
How to fix it: Ensure each sentence has both a subject and a verb, and expresses a complete thought.
Health Coach Example:
Fragment: “Eating whole foods every day. You will feel better in no time.”
Fixed: “Eating whole foods every day can help you feel better in no time.”
Run-On Sentences
What it is: A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses (complete thoughts) are incorrectly joined without proper punctuation or conjunctions.
How to fix it: Use punctuation marks like periods, commas with conjunctions, or semicolons to separate independent clauses.
Self-Defense Instructor Example:
Run-On: “Self-defense training teaches you how to protect yourself it also builds confidence and mental resilience.”
Fixed: “Self-defense training teaches you how to protect yourself, and it also builds confidence and mental resilience.”
*OR*
“Self-defense training teaches you how to protect yourself; it also builds confidence and mental resilience.”
Subject-Verb Agreement Errors
What it is: This error occurs when the subject and verb do not agree in number. A singular subject should have a singular verb, and a plural subject should have a plural verb.
How to fix it: Match the subject with the correct form of the verb.
Nutritionist Example:
Incorrect: “A balanced diet help maintain energy levels.”
Correct: “A balanced diet helps maintain energy levels.”
Misplaced Modifiers
What it is: A misplaced modifier occurs when a descriptive word or phrase is placed too far from the word it’s supposed to modify, causing confusion.
How to fix it: Place modifiers next to the word they are meant to describe.
Fitness Trainer Example:
Misplaced: “We offer a comprehensive wellness program for weight loss, including a nutrition plan.”
Fixed: “We offer a comprehensive wellness program, including a nutrition plan, for weight loss.”
Incorrect Use of Apostrophes
What it is: Apostrophes are used to show possession or in contractions. Misusing apostrophes can confuse readers.
How to fix it: Use apostrophes for possession (e.g., the trainer’s advice) and in contractions (e.g., don’t), not to form plurals.
Clean Water Activist Example:
Incorrect: “The river’s in our community are becoming polluted at an alarming rate.”
Fixed: “The rivers in our community are becoming polluted at an alarming rate.”
Mixing Up Homophones
What it is: Homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. Using the wrong homophone can disrupt the flow and confuse your audience.
How to fix it: Double-check homophones to ensure you’re using the correct one.
Craniosacral Therapist Example:
Incorrect: “The client’s stress is effecting how their body responds to gentle touch during sessions.”
Fixed: “The client’s stress is affecting how their body responds to gentle touch during sessions.”
Overuse of Commas
What it is: Overusing commas can break up the flow of your sentence and make it harder to follow.
How to fix it: Use commas only where necessary (i.e. after introductory phrases, between elements in a series, and around nonessential clauses).
Energy Healer Example:
Incorrect: “Healing involves balancing energy, in turn, restoring physical, emotional and mental well-being.”
Fixed (with Oxford comma): “Healing involves balancing energy, restoring physical, emotional, and mental well-being.”
Fixed (without Oxford comma): “Healing involves balancing energy, restoring physical, emotional and mental well-being.”
💡 Note: Both versions are grammatically correct. The Oxford comma (the comma before “and”) is optional, but it can help avoid ambiguity in lists.
Inconsistent Tense Usage
What it is: Inconsistent verb tenses can confuse the reader and disrupt the flow of your writing.
How to fix it: Stick to one verb tense (usually past or present) unless there’s a clear reason to switch.
Mental Health Counselor Example:
Inconsistent: “I help my clients set realistic goals, and they struggled with procrastination in the past.”
Fixed: “I help my clients set realistic goals, and they struggle with procrastination.”
*OR*
“I helped my clients set realistic goals, and they struggled with procrastination in the past.”
Dangling Participles
What it is: A dangling participle occurs when a participle or participial phrase doesn’t clearly modify the word it is intended to describe.
How to fix it: Ensure the participle or participial phrase clearly connects to the noun or pronoun it is supposed to modify.
Esthetician Example:
Dangling: “After attending multiple skincare workshops, clients notice visible improvements in their skin.”
Fixed: “After attending multiple skincare workshops, I’ve seen my clients notice visible improvements in their skin.”
Overuse of “Very” and Other Intensifiers
What it is: Words like “very,” “really,” “quite,” and “extremely” can weaken your writing and make it less impactful.
How to fix it: Choose stronger adjectives or adverbs that convey your meaning more directly.
Wellness Coach Example:
Weak: “This approach is very effective for managing stress.”
Stronger: “This approach is highly effective for managing stress.”
💡 How to Avoid These Grammar Pitfalls
1. Read your writing aloud: This will help you catch any awkward phrasing or grammar errors.
2. Use editing tools: Tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid can catch many common grammar mistakes.
3. Take a break: After writing, take a short break before editing. Coming back with fresh eyes helps you spot errors more easily.
4. Ask for feedback: Having someone else read your work can reveal mistakes you might have missed.
5. Sign up for The Editing Desk.
