

Day 5: Lack of Motivation
If you are struggling with motivation, or find it difficult to stay focused and committed to your writing projects over time, try these steps: Set tiny goals at first, highly achievable goals that you can definitely achieve. (Anne Lamott’s one-inch picture frame, I’m talking to you.) Break larger projects into smaller, more manageable tasks and build momentum. Or take a look at the tasks you have in front of you. Are these the projects you are really passionate about? If not,
Jan 5, 2023


Day 4: Writer’s Block
If you are struggling with writer's block, and find it difficult to generate ideas or put your thoughts into words, you might need to change your state. If you’re not under a tight deadline, try taking a break and do something mindless like washing the dishes or taking a shower. (Wow, I never noticed how much I’m into hot water.) There’s something about these kinds of tasks that can relax your mind and help get you back into flow., Even if you are on a tight deadline, it can
Jan 4, 2023


Day 3: The Fear of Criticism
A fear of criticism can sometimes derail me. It can hurt to get negative feedback on our writing, no matter how valid the criticism may be. A few solutions that have helped: Seek out a supportive writing community or partner who can provide feedback and encouragement. After getting my Master's Degree and spending my days home with young kids, I couldn't concentrate or write at all so I signed up for a beginning creative writing class at the junior college and it brought lif
Jan 3, 2023


Day 2: Self Doubt
If self doubt is blocking your progress and you find yourself worrying that your ideas aren't good enough or that you aren't knowledgeable or experienced enough to write about a particular topic, it can lead to the feelings of imposter syndrome and can take your confidence down a negative spiral. Some solutions to try: Research and gather info to increase your knowledge and confidence on the topic you're writing about. Seek feedback from trusted sources to improve your writin
Jan 2, 2023


Day 1: Perfectionism
This week, we're taking a look at 7 of the top psychological blocks that can deter your writing (and what to do about them.) Perfectionism: writers sometimes struggle with perfectionism which can lead to procrastination and difficulty getting started on writing projects. Possible Solutions? Set small goals and deadlines for your writing projects. It can help to join a writing group or class so that you have real deadlines to meet. Remember the mantra: Progress makes Progress.
Jan 1, 2023


Recommended Reading: The Chronology of Water
I was listening to this audio book called Thrust and then I feel asleep because it was really late. When I woke up, I had no idea what...
Dec 10, 2022


Meditation
I went to a meditation class last night and it was horrible but I’m going to try to go again, except not next week because I’m going to...
Nov 15, 2022


NaNoWriMo
I've attempted to write 50,000 words in 30 days during National Novel Writing Month once before. I'm trying again this year, with some...
Nov 1, 2022


Guess who's going to Newark?
I received this surprise in my inbox today which included a special message from Kwame Alexander . . . Click here to watch a special...
Oct 1, 2022


America's Next Great Author
I submitted a video pitch, written pitch, bio, artist statement, and a ten page written sample to America's Next Great Author. For the video, you were supposed to say your name, where you’re from, and something interesting about yourself before giving your pitch, but I skipped the last part on accident. I tried about fifty times to redo it but I couldn’t get through the pitch again without messing up, so I just submitted the one without what makes me unique. Also I don’t have
Sep 13, 2022






























