The Write Things Newsletter

No one has to follow their dreams.

Heck, you don’t even have to acknowledge you have a dream.
But if you’re reading this email, there is a dream inside of you. I guarantee it.

Idea: On Mindset

As a young man, I loved playing with little kids. At parties or family functions, I had ...

I’m sorry, but this one might burn a bit.

You’ve probably heard the old story: if you drop a frog into boiling water, it jumps out. But if the water is room temperature and you slowly bring it to a boil, the frog stays—never realizing the danger.

This week, we’re doing a temperatu...

I’m back!

After some much-needed R&R, I’m excited to get back to talking writing with you. This week, I want to share some insights that arose while mulling over a few words of wisdom from Rick Rubin, author of The Creative Act, and from Steven Pressfield’s The War of Art.

Idea: O...

Hello, writers,

It’s good to be back! A nasty virus ran through our family last week, but today, everyone finally seems to be in the clear.

And that’s good, because there’s something I need to get clear on: telling in our writing.

I’ve been teaching it wrong.

Here’s why.

Idea: ...

Hello writers,

How often do you consider what you’re proud of in your writing? What parts feel most important, vital, and unchangeable in your story? 

More importantly, do you trust these feelings?

Idea: On Self-Trust

When you share your writing with others, pay particular atten...

Hello writers,

I’m working through my Enhance Your Storytelling workshop with a dozen amateur writers, and I came across an obvious truth—one that, perhaps, isn’t often articulated.

Actually, it was the writers I’m working with who pointed it out. So, a big thank you to them for t...

Hello writers,

I figured, with tomorrow being V Day, why not dive into the topic of love?

I think there’s a lot we can learn from it.

Idea: On Mindset

I feel the most blessed and grateful when I experience love.
Whether I was designed by God, an evolutionary force, or something i...

Hello writers,

Technique is a frequent topic in my writing groups, and this week, it took center stage in my Enhance Your Storytelling course.

For many writers, technique can be a source of confidence or doubt—an accolade or an obstacle.

Let me explain. 

Idea: On Mindset

A deep...

Hello writers,

While January can motivate some of us to dive into new projects, routines, or habits, it can have the opposite effect on others.

As the month comes to an end, I want to offer something for those of you who aren’t happy with where your writing or routine stands.

Ide...

Write Things: On when is it too late to start writing

Hello writers,

After a couple of speaking engagements about having the “write” mindset, a few questions are still rolling around in my head - one of which is, “Is it too late for me to start writing?” 

Let’s talk about it. 

I...

Hello writers,

Don’t you love it when the story seems to write itself? Me too. That’s why I believe every writer should have a few trusted keys to unlock their creativity and keep the words flowing.

Here’s one I’ve picked up from a couple of pros—I hope it’s a perfect fit for your...

Happy New Year, Writers!

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season and are feeling ready to embrace the creative possibilities of the year ahead.

Lately, I’ve been contemplating something I think many of us grapple with: how we develop confidence in our abilities and trust in ...