Write Things: On Not Knowing Your Next Step

Hello writers,

I had a wonderful conversation with Nadia Kidwai of CBC Radio One in Winnipeg this past weekend. We talked about everything from perfectionism, to the creative process, to the power of the questions we ask ourselves.  

In all honesty, the interview felt like it was over before I could really get going into some important topics. One of the big ones was about moving forward when things aren’t clear - be it in the story we’re writing or the story we’re living. 

Let’s shift our perspective on “I don’t know.” 

Want to hear it? You can listen to the interview here. 

The Shift

If you’re feeling uncertain right now — about your writing, your next step, your story — good. That means you’re in new territory. And that’s exactly where important things begin.

Whether we arrive in the unknown by choice or by circumstance doesn’t matter. What matters is how we respond to the uncertainty once we’re there.

Because uncertainty isn’t a red flag.
It’s a signal.
A sign that something is new — and possibly meaningful.

Yes, there are dangers and dragons in any uncertain future. But there’s also treasure: adventure, growth, clarity, and strength. The kind you don’t find on familiar paths.

If we ignore uncertainty or try to shut it down, it becomes something else entirely — fear, paralysis, resistance. But if we acknowledge it and shift our focus, it becomes a gateway to transformation.

Want to know if the uncertainty in your life right now holds something important?

Ask your inner critic.

What’s it saying?
Is it planting doubt, fear, paralysis?
Or is it urging you toward action, courage, and movement?

If it’s telling you to freeze — it’s likely because something valuable is at stake. And you’re close to it.

Once you realize that, the question becomes:
How do you turn uncertainty into adventure?

With your focus.

One of my coaches, Susan Conrad, gave me a simple, unforgettable example. There are two kinds of “I don’t know.”

There’s “I don’t know...” said with defeat, frustration, and fear.
And then there’s “I don’t know!” said with wonder, excitement, and curiosity.

One closes the door.
The other opens it.

The one you choose shapes what you find next.

In your writing — wonder. Be playful. Be curious. Be bold.
Ask, “What could be next?” And wait — focused on that question — until something arrives.
(It always does.)

In your life — do the same.

And when it arrives — write it.
And live it.

Your Next Four Minutes 

Prompt: “What would be exciting?”

Think about an area of your story or life where you’re currently feeling uncertain. Then, start your timer and see what comes up in your writing.

New to quick-writing?
It’s simple: Find a space where you can focus. Turn off your phone, close the door, and grab something to write with — pen and paper or a keyboard.

Set a timer for four minutes and write continuously on the prompt above. If you get stuck, write the prompt again until something shifts. You might free-write your thoughts, explore your self-talk, or even start a scene.

You can turn it into a story, use it to clarify your next step, or keep going for another four minutes. It’s up to you.

Either way, you’ll have written for four minutes — and that’s what writers do.
They write.

Thank you to everyone who's shared this newsletter with a fellow writer or friend. It means the world to me. 

Wishing you and your stories all the best, 

Trevor Martens

Founder, I Help You Write Things

P.S. Have you registered for my free webinar next Thursday? It’ll introduce you to an untapped superpower to help you overcome the inner critic and procrastination. The shift it will teach has the potential to not only transform your writing, but every area of your life you choose to apply it. 

Reserve your seat here.