Read your essay out loud to yourself as you write and see if it sounds like you. Another tip is to choose a plain-spoken person you like and write your thoughts as if you were telling her your story over coffee. Choose a topic people care about. A good guideline is to write about things that relate to articles, editorials or columns that have appeared in the newspaper. More people will relate.
Diversity is important.
This is what makes Valley Voices so special. We have heard from people who were funny, sad and angry. We have worked with writers who had doctorates and those who barely got through elementary school. We are even willing to translate from other languages. All points of view are welcome on the Valley Voices page.