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Should You Write Every Day?

It’s probably one of the most debated questions in the writing world.

Should you write every day?

Do some research, and you’ll find the answers bounce from one side of the world wide web to the other – from the hard, “Yes” to the ardent, “No.”

To prove my point, here is a sampling of responses I’ve received to the question, “Should you write every day?” inside my Writers Salon community:

“Writing something every day helps us to be organized, process our emotions when we put them down in words, increases creativity and productivity.”

“For me it’s imperative I write daily, even if for just a few minutes. Otherwise, I feel like I’m not making progress and not being diligent to build my craft.”

“Nope. I know of many successful writers who don’t write every day. Like them, I find writing has its own realities and rhythms. It’s not a matter of waiting for inspiration; the act of writing is what brings the inspiration. But it is important for me to create a writing habit based on my life, priorities, and personality and not on a standard that makes me feel constantly guilty for not being able to meet it.”

“Not necessarily. I know many writers who insist upon journaling every day. I never liked doing that. I tried recently to commit some random thoughts and ideas to a Word file several times a week but it felt so stilted and artificial.”

“I think you should write every day because it gets you thinking about the story.”

“I believe it’s important to write regularly about anything and everything. Every day? Not necessarily. I write when I get inspired.”

“Although one must honor one’s self, I would agree that it is necessary to write something every day, just as it is necessary to breathe and to move.”

Feel like you’re on a teeter-totter?

For years I have bounced around this question, dreaming of being the writer who puts the proverbial pen to paper every day to at least tickle my own creative muse, keep my storytelling brain well oiled. Writing, like anything else, gets better with practice. To build a habit, we should work at it every day, right?

The only way the work gets done is to do it. The only way to be a writer is to write.

Yet, if our creative work becomes a law (think, “You should …” or, “You have to …”), how quick are we to dismiss it?

Should you write every day?

I’m not here to give you a hard “yes” or “no.” Writing is a creative and a subjective and an individual act. There is no ONE way to do it. There is no RIGHT way to do it. The one absolute:

To be a writer, you must write.

But how often or how regularly you write depends on a lot of factors. Let’s look at a few of them:

Your overarching goal when it comes to writing. Not every writer aspires to be a serial novelist or a New York Times bestseller. If your goal is to pump out one book a year, then perhaps you should write every day. But if your goal is to finish one writing project this year and then wait for the muse to take hold again, daily writing may not be up your alley. And that’s okay. Other responsibilities/obligations in your life, in this season. The novelist who has a deadline to send a finished manuscript to her editor by the end of the month is likely in a season of writing every day. The military wife who works full time and is anticipating a cross-country move in the next two weeks may not be in a season of writing every day. It’s not fair to compare yourself and your writing habits to anyone else. Stay in your lane. Determine your priorities, in this season. What kind of writer you are. I love what Allison K. Williams says about the freedom of flexibility when it comes to writing. On the Brevity Blog, she writes, “Notice how you work best, and work that way on purpose.” It’s more important to understand how you work best than it is to live up to an arbitrary ideal.What type of writing project you’re working on right now and where you are in the process. Are you gathering memories and research for a family history? Editing the rough draft of a novel? Waiting for feedback on some poems? Perhaps you have no specific writing project at the moment and are casting about for ideas. Where you are on your writing journey will influence what a regular writing habit looks like for you – or whether you have a habit at all.

Writing every day is a dream for some. It spells quick failure for others. No matter how often you put your butt in chair, it is important to celebrate those moments – to tell yourself, “Good job,” every time you show up to the page, for the act of showing up. There is discipline to the craft of writing, for sure, but I also think it’s too easy and oversimplified to say that, to be a writer, you must write every day.

However.

There is a lot to be said about building a writing habit.

In one of her weekly newsletters a while back, author and Funds for Writers founder Hope Clark did not mince words when she shared: “The truth is, however, that if you intend to take writing seriously, then show up to work. Delays and gaps in between only makes your writing atrophy. Then you have to warm up all over again, often rereading and rewriting material because you lost track. Also, writing daily ingrains a habit in you such that every time you sit in the chair your brain knows to start writing. And yes, it does become easier. Not that writing is easy, but getting back into it is easier when you do it daily.”

You are the only person who can determine how and where writing fits into your life. If you want to make writing a habit, you’ve gotta show up, again and again. You’ve gotta write regardless of whether you feel like writing.

And, you’ve gotta find some fun and enjoyment in the process.

What feels good when it comes to your writing? Is it religiously writing your morning pages, as Julia Cameron suggests in The Artist’s Way? Is it stealing 30 minutes on a lunch break when you have no other plans? Is it that feeling of having written, once you get in your 500 words for the day?

Ask yourself why writing is important to you, and then ask yourself where in your life it fits. (An exercise I recommend every writer do at least once is to craft their own “Why I Write” essay. More on that here.)

How you measure your writing goals is just as important as the effort you put toward your writing. Get clear on your writing goals, determine the best way to make progress on those goals, and then, get started.

If you’d like some help, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach out here.

*Note: This post contains links to affiliate products I am proud to support.

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The Power of Planning: Your Roadmap to Writing Success in 2025

Mark Twain once said, “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”

It is excellent advice from one of America’s most respected thinkers. Yet, it makes no sense to “get started” if you don’t know where you’re going.

As a writer, one of your goals must be to write. That’s the only way your words get seen and interpreted the way you want. But starting out the new year with a vague goal of, “I will write,” or, “I will write more,” sets you on a path to failure from the get-go.

Your most powerful tool isn’t your pen or keyboard—it’s your plan. Strategic planning transforms scattered writing dreams into achievable goals, turning potential dreams into tangible progress. When you set goals you can measure for your writing, you will see that tangible progress, and the more progress you make, the more exciting and real your writing goal becomes.

Does the idea of planning out your writing for 2025 excite you, or does it make you want to snooze? You might think that creativity can only exist outside of a rigid structure – in order to let creativity thrive, it must not be restricted.

But writing without a detailed plan will only lead to chaos. If you write only when the muse strikes or only when you’re in the mood or only when an idea hits you, you are not driving the ship. Your muse is, and she is not reliable.

In a recent weekly newsletter, author Hope Clark brilliantly addressed the difference between a writer and a hobbyist:

“The [writing] habit is not easy to establish. Yes, I am one who preaches that you write daily, not when the mood strikes you. That’s for hobbyists. If that’s what you want to be, then fine. Just decide and quit straddling the fence.”

Planning isn’t about restricting creativity; it’s about creating a supportive framework that nurtures your writing journey. Think of your writing plan like a GPS: it doesn’t eliminate the adventure; it ensures you’re moving in the right direction.

So how does one go about creating a writing plan? It starts with setting realistic goals. If you want to write a full-length novel in 3 months and you’ve never written a novel, that goal is not realistic. However, if you want to write a full-length novel in 2025, that goal might be possible – with specific milestones in place to guide you along the journey (your “GPS”).

 

Key Elements of an Effective Writing PlanRealistic Goal SettingDefine specific, measurable writing objectivesBreak large goals into manageable monthly/quarterly milestonesExample: “Complete first draft of novel” becomes “Write 500 words daily”Skill Development StrategiesIdentify 2-3 writing skills you’d like to improve in 2025. Examples include establishing a consistent writing practice, improving dialogue, understanding the components of a strong plot, etc.Schedule regular learning activities (workshops, courses, reading). Follow my newsletter for upcoming workshops and courses. I also recommend checking out The Writers Bridge, Hippocampus Magazine, Diablo Writers Workshop and Poets & Writers for unique writing opportunities, classes and workshops. And recently, I shared this post on 8 of the best books for writers. There are many ways to learn, and there is always something new to learn.Consistent Practice RoutineCreate a sustainable writing schedule. Understand your unique writing style and circumstances. Customize your goals to fit your lifestyle. Then, commit to writing consistently, even if it’s just 5-15 minutes daily. Consistency builds confidence and develops a sustainable writing practice.Establish non-negotiable writing times. If you share these non-negotiables with others in your close circle, they can act as forces of accountability, helping you stay on track and stay committed to when you say you are going to write.Build accountability through tracking systems. I keep a simple spreadsheet where I track the date and word count. The more I add to the spreadsheet, the more I literally see my writing progress. You can also use a tracking app, such as WriteChain (Tracks word counts and daily writing streaks), Write on Track (Sets daily word count goals and sends reminders) or WriteOMeter (Tracks word count, provides timers, and allows data export).

 

Most Importantly, Get Started

A plan is a living document. It should inspire, not intimidate. Because it is a living document, it’s important to embrace imperfection in your planning process. Remember, showing up is more important than creating perfect prose every time. Set your goals, establish milestones, and then start writing. One of my favorite pieces of writing advice comes from the western fiction writer, Louis L’amour: “Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until faucet is turned on.”

Start writing. You can tweak your plan as you go. Treat your 2025 writing plan as a commitment to yourself and your creative potential.

On Jan. 11, 2025, I am hosting a one-hour webinar, “Create Your 2025 Writing Plan,” where we’ll dive into a lot more detail about crafting a personalized writing plan that will carry you through 2025. Learn more and sign up here.

Most importantly, if you want to write more or improve your writing skills in 2025, the single best thing you can do right now is to get started. Don’t wait. There will never be a perfect time to start writing. You can do it. Go it alone if you want, or sign up for my upcoming webinar to dive deeper. When you register for the webinar, you’ll also receive worksheets to help you clarify your writing goal(s) and track your writing progress throughout the year.

However you go about it, here’s to making 2025 the year that you make real progress on your writing. I’ll be writing right along with you. Let’s make it happen!

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Words as Powerful Tools: How Legacy Letters Build Lives and Legacies

When was the last time you wrote a letter?

It’s a question I posed on my social media feeds last week.

In the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives, in a world that increasingly spins on instant gratification, a heartfelt, personal letter from one person to another seems to be almost a thing of antiquity. Yet, it can be the greatest gift you ever give or receive.

This year, I introduced a new service at Kate Meadows Writing & Editing, at the request of a friend and colleague – the Legacy Letter. A Legacy Letter is a fervent and honest piece of communication that represents how you want to be remembered by someone. There is no “one” way or “right” way to write such a letter, but at Kate Meadows Writing & Editing, we guide our clients through questions that address 6 categories:

Vision – What you envision for your letter recipient’s future. This is an opportunity to reflect on your relationship with your letter recipient, what makes that relationship unique and what you want for your letter recipient after you’re gone.Advice – What advice you want to leave for your letter recipient. Think about your experiences or worldview. How is the advice you have shaped by those things? Why are you the person to give the advice? Why should the advice be meaningful coming from you specifically?Affirmations – Here is an opportunity to shower your letter recipient with praises, mentioning particular strengths and passions. What do you love/admire most about the person you are writing to? How do their strengths contribute to a better world?Regrets/Apologies – Take time to reflect on any regrets and/or apologies you have as they relate to your letter recipient. This is a section to encourage healing if and where healing is needed.Memories/Stories/Traditions – What memories do you want to preserve when you’re gone? What stories you want to pass down? What traditions have been important to you?Instructions – Any logistical or administrative instructions important for your letter recipient to know for after you’re gone.The Enduring Impact of Words

As a writing coach and editor, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of words. Words have the unique ability to transcend time and space. Writing, at its most foundational level, is communication. When carefully crafted into a Legacy Letter, your words become a bridge connecting past, present, and future. These letters serve as vessels for our most cherished memories, hard-earned wisdom, and deepest values. They allow us to share the essence of who we are, what we’ve learned, and what we hope for those who come after us.

Building Lives Through Legacy Letters

A Legacy Letter is one of the greatest gifts we can give to our loved ones and future generations. These letters can offer:

Guidance during difficult timesInspiration to pursue dreamsComfort in moments of doubtA sense of belonging and family history

Legacy Letters have the power to shape lives long after we’re gone. By sharing our experiences, challenges, and triumphs, we provide future generations with a roadmap for navigating life’s complexities.

In our fast-paced digital age, the art of storytelling through written words is more precious than ever. Legacy Letters capture the essence of our personal narratives, ensuring that our stories and memories endure. They become time capsules, preserving the richness of our experiences for future generations to explore and cherish. By putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), we actively participate in shaping how we’ll be remembered and the impact we’ll have on future generations.

While the content of a Legacy Letter is deeply personal, the process of writing one can be challenging. At Kate Meadows Writing & Editing, we offer three options for helping you bring a Legacy Letter to life: a DIY question list, a 1-1 consult to help you overcome writer’s block and structure your thoughts effectively, and a video script/shoot to capture your literal voice. Learn more about these options and get in touch at Legacy Letter Services – Kate Meadows Writing & Editing.

Legacy Letters are far more than mere words on a page. They are powerful tools for building lives, preserving memories, and crafting legacies. In a world where material possessions often take center stage, a thoughtfully written Legacy Letter stands out as a gift of immeasurable value. It’s a piece of yourself, carefully crafted and lovingly shared, that will continue to impact lives long after you’re gone.

Your words have power. Your words matter. Use them wisely, use them lovingly, and let them be the foundation of a legacy that will endure for generations to come.

 

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8 of the Best Books on Writing – Gift Ideas for the Writer in Your Life

The holidays are around the corner. For creative writers, that might mean stockings stuffed with gel pens and journals. (One year, my aunt gave me a set of “Writer’s Block” pencils, with pithy sayings on each pencil -pieces of advice for what to do when writer’s block hits. One of the pencil’s messages: Try vodka.)

An often-overlooked gift idea for writers is books on the writing craft. Books like Stephen King’s On Writing and Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird have been pivotal for me as I’ve built my writing and editing career.

Here, I offer my recommendations for the best writing books out there. From keeping you in the writing game to helping you write clearly, these are my top picks to help writers show up to the page and grow in their craft. [NOTE: The links below are affiliate links to my page on Bookshop.org. I am a proud supporter of Bookshop and the books I recommend here, and I receive a small commission from any book sale made through these links.]

The Elements of Style, by William Strunk and E.B. White
A fantastic little resource for grammar, this is a go-to for sentence mechanics and writing style. Cornell University English Professor William Strunk penned the book in 1918, and author/editor E.B. White (of Charlotte’s Web fame) revised and expanded the book decades later. The Elements of Style was named one of the most 100 influential nonfiction books since the inception of TIME Magazine, in 2011. Erin Skarda of TIME wrote that “The Elements of Style has managed to maintain its original purpose over the years, even as our language has become less formal.” The Artist’s Way, by Julia Cameron
A longtime pillar for the creative community, The Artist’s Way is at once a resource and a friend, guiding the reader through a series of activities to continually and consistently nurture a creative spirit. I recommend this book to my clients all the time – writers who seek accountability and support in establishing an ongoing creative writing practice. Julia Cameron’s recommendations of morning pages, artist dates and more help and inspire creative of all types, including writers, to develop a consistent practice of their art. Her language gets overly mystical and broad at times (the words “spiritual” and “spirituality” drive me crazy, because they’re so ambiguous), but I consider that a small shortcoming in an otherwise tremendous gift that Julia Cameron offers to creative writers who take on her Artist’s Way challenge. One of my favorite Julia Cameron quotes is, “Creativity is God’s gift to us. Using our creativity is our gift back to God.” The Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Young Writers, by John Gardner
I first learned of Gardner’s incredible book after my grandfather, a history professor, died and my mom handed me the book from his bookshelf. The title is a bit of a misnomer: while certainly a help for young writers, The Art of Fiction is a treasure trove of advice and support for creative writers of all ages. With chapters such as, “Basic Skills, Genre, and Fiction as Dream,” “Common Errors” and “Plotting,” this book can be read cover-to-cover or consulted as a resource at any point along a writer’s journey with her story. One of things that sets Gardner’s work apart is the strong examples he uses from classic literature to drive home his points. He doesn’t just tell you, “This is how it should be;” he tells you why, and he shows you how in examples of well-known stories. I turn to The Art of Fiction time again for my own writing and as I develop writing talks and workshops on various aspects of the writing craft. On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction, by William Zinsser
William Zinsser’s handy writing guide is my Bible when it comes to the basic tenets of writing. On Writing Well was a game-changer for me when I read it for the first time; I saw so clearly why things like eliminating clutter from your writing, writing simply and knowing your audience were crucial to creating meaningful work. While the book is geared toward nonfiction writing, I have consulted it time and again for fiction as well as nonfiction. A clean sentence is a clean sentence. Fiction writers must consider their audience just as much as nonfiction writers must. No surprise, the book is an easy read – because it is clearly and simply written. I believe every writer should own a copy of On Writing Well. The pages should be dog-eared, lines highlighted, cover worn. Mine certainly is! Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life, by Anne Lamott
Packed with warmth, wisdom and humor, Bird by Bird is the type of book I want to curl up with on the couch on a rainy afternoon and read cover-cover, with a companion mug of strong coffee. Anne Lamott was raised in a family of voracious readers and was largely inspired to write by her father, himself a writer who encouraged her by example to “put a little bit down on paper every day.” Bird by Bird encourages just that approach – a step-at-a-time march toward a completed story, toward an accomplished writing goal. At once life wisdom and writing advice, this book can easily be a best friend, a hand to hold through a writer’s creative journey. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft, by Stephen King
Another writing craft book I recommend to fellow writers and clients all the time, Stephen King’s On Writing is a testament to the grit and determination required of any writer who is serious about the craft. King’s take on writing is unique in that it is a memoir of sorts – it details his own writing journey, from his earliest memory (imagining he was the Ringling Brothers Circus Strongboy) to his advice on agents and whether he writes for the money. It is a “how-to” without being a “how-to;” the book is just as much about King’s remarkable life as it is how he has achieved such incredible writing success and how others can develop a successful writing practice. “ …my basic belief about the making of stories,” he says in the book, “is that they pretty much make themselves. The job of the writer is to give them a place to grow …” The Writing Life, by Annie Dillard
This slim little volume by essayist Annie Dillard is like a refreshing drink of water for the writer’s soul. Dillard lays bare her struggles and the absurdities that surround a creative life, but she also poetically tackles the joy and the beauty of noticing the world around her – the art of paying attention. The Writing Life offers a lighthearted touch, a gift of encouragement, to any writer along the writing journey. Every journey is different, of course, but Dillard’s book is a unifying force, a gift that invites writers (no matter where they are along the path) to ponder and resonate. Art & Fear: Observations on the Perils (and Rewards) of Artmaking, by Ted Orland and David Bayles
Perhaps a lesser-known book across the writing landscape, Art & Fear is a wake-up call to responding to fear in our work as creatives. I do not believe it was coincidence that I read this book cover-to-cover when I was 8 months pregnant with my first child. I was terrified – terrified of the future, terrified of what becoming a mother would mean for my work as a writer. It was in those moments of fear that I read in Art & Fear, “Art is like beginning a sentence before you know its ending. The risks are obvious: you may never get to the end of the sentence … or having gotten there, you may not have said anything.” By bringing common fears to the forefront and exploring them on the page, the authors of Art & Fear invite their readers into a bigger conversation, a conversation about what keeps us from showing up and how we can confront (not ignore) our fears and use them to find strength and prevail in our creative work.

 

Reading is a critical part of any writer’s practice. Give a creative writer a book this Christmas (or, if YOU are the writer, add these books to your Christmas list!) and give the gift of continued inspiration and support. These 8 books are within arm’s length of my writing space. I go to them often, to learn and re-learn, and to get excited about writing all over again. This season, I wish for you or the creative writer in your life the same – a gift to nurture and inspire, a gift that will last long after the holidays are over.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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5 Ways to Celebrate Small Wins During NaNoWriMo

It’s November, and for hundreds of thousands of writers worldwide, that means National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo. NaNoWriMo is an exciting and enticing challenge that invites writers to put down 50,000 words in just 30 days. The ultimate goal is ambitious – participants should expect to write an average of 1,667 words per day during the month.

To achieve such a lofty goal, it’s crucial to celebrate small wins along the way. Don’t just put your head down and write and not come up for air until November 30. Focus on your work. Focus on your ultimate goal. But acknowledge steppingstones and progress along the way in fun and celebratory ways.

Why?

Celebrating small wins boosts motivation.

Every time you hit a milestone—whether it’s completing a chapter, reaching a daily word count goal, or simply writing for a set amount of time—you reinforce positive behavior. Celebrating these moments can reignite your passion for writing and keep you motivated to continue.

Celebrating small wins reduces stress.

NaNoWriMo can be intense, and stress goes hand-in-hand with the pressure to meet deadlines. By focusing on smaller achievements rather than fixating solely on the end goal, you can alleviate some of that pressure. Every small win becomes a reason to breathe easier and enjoy the process.

Celebrating small wins builds confidence.

You might not believe it, but every word you write contributes to your growth as a writer. Acknowledging your progress—no matter how small—helps build confidence in your abilities. It helps you believe you can take the next step. This newfound confidence can empower you to tackle more significant challenges as you move forward.

Celebrating small wins along your writing journey is important. Let’s explore some fun and meaningful ways to acknowledge your progress during NaNoWriMo. Here are 5 suggestions to do just that:

1. *Set Mini-Goals**

Break down your larger goal into smaller, manageable milestones. For example, aim to write 1,000 words a day or complete specific scenes or chapters by certain dates. Each time you reach one of these mini-goals, take a moment to celebrate!

 

2. *Share Your Small Wins**

Join online writing communities such as The Writers Salon or local writing groups where you can share your progress with fellow writers. (Interested in joining a local writing group but not sure how? Contact me and I’ll see if I can help!) Whether it’s posting about reaching your daily word count on social media or sharing your excitement in a group chat, connecting with others can amplify your sense of accomplishment. It can also keep you accountable to taking the next step and the next along the way.

 

3. *Treat Yourself!**

Reward yourself for every milestone you reach! This could be as simple as enjoying a favorite snack, taking a break to watch an episode of your favorite show, or even treating yourself to a new book from a local bookstore. These little rewards can create positive associations with your writing journey – and further motivate you to keep going.

 

4. *Create a Visual Tracker**

Consider using a visual tracker—like a chart or a bulletin board—to mark your progress throughout the month. Each time you hit a milestone, add a sticker or mark it off on your chart. This visual representation serves as both motivation and a reminder of how far you’ve come.

 

5. *Reflect on Your Journey**

Take time at the end of each week to reflect on what you’ve accomplished. Write down your achievements and how they made you feel. This practice not only reinforces your progress but also helps you appreciate the journey itself.

 

## Share Your Wins!

If you are participating in NaNoWriMo this year, I encourage you to embrace every small victory along the way. Remember that every word written is a step closer to your goal—and each step deserves recognition.

I’d love to hear about your milestones! What small wins have you celebrated so far this month? Share your achievements in the comments below or tag me on social media using #NaNoWriMoWins!

Happy writing!

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Does AI Have a Place in Creativity?

For millennia, humans have balked at the introduction of new technologies – and new ideas – in all spaces. There was an uproar about the first cars, the radio, any new music, the internet, women running marathons, and all kinds of other things for as long as we’ve been recording any of it.

The newest addition to the list of “things to fear?” Artificial intelligence.

Yes, like social media and the internet and cars, there are a lot of ways AI could go wrong. Like anything – knowledge, power, or technology – in the hands of a less than morally steadfast person, artificial intelligence can be used against the common good. But who decides that? Like most things, AI can be used as a weapon – or as a force for good.

Creation is endemic to human existence. The earliest and most functional of tools, cooking vessels, were still created with artistic expression. Critical to the expression of human creativity is the individualistic experience and perception of each person walking this planet. No two people are the same, in their DNA, their experience, their skill, or their expression. And that’s what artificial intelligence does not have – individuality.

Artificial intelligence has the sum, the collective, the average, the aggregate. It farms for rules and best practices. It exists in algorithms. It is the overview, the lowest common denominator. What terrifies people about artificial intelligence, is the notion that our capacity for creating could be superseded by the most basic and common iteration of information.

In other words, AI will make us lazy.

As a writer and editor – as a creative – I admit, this scares me. More and more I am recognizing what I call “AI speak” in the rough drafts my clients send me. “AI speak” surfaces in big, empty corporate words like “leverage” and “performance,” in cliches like “reach your fullest potential” (gag!) and in sentences that sound the same, line after line. When AI spits out the copy for us, we risk ceasing to be creative thinkers. We risk missing out on the rewards of diving deep, of thinking critically, of clearly communicating from a place of authenticity.

I am not one of those writers to hates AI unequivocally, who feels threatened by it or wants to put my head in the sand and pretend it’s not here. Despite the incredible risks of plagiarism and cheating (I do not envy teachers), I believe AI can be a force for good.

We just have to learn how to use it responsibly, and as a starting point for our unique creative expressions.

You know what AI is really good at? Following rules, taking directions.

You know what humans are really good at? Breaking rules. Being original. Creating new ideas.

Our fear that a piece of writing entirely composed by AI can outpace or outshine a piece of work composed by a real human being is understandable. Fairness, due credit and intellectual copyright protection are integral to our creative work. But it doesn’t take long to look at a piece of writing entirely composed by artificial intelligence and realize that it lacks personality. AI lacks that special something that each individual creator has: perspective.

The complicated relationship between humans and technology isn’t going away; it’s only getting more complicated. With our rapidly changing online world, it’s no wonder the average person might be feeling a little lost and uncertain about their place in a world with AI – or AI’s place in their world. In a recent survey a colleague and I did about AI, we learned that more than half of the respondents were a) fearful of AI and b) had never used it. Everyone who took the survey was curious about AI. What is this thing, this force, that is showing up so suddenly everywhere and threatening to rock our whole world?

Don’t be afraid to be curious. Don’t be afraid to experiment with AI. But don’t stop there. Don’t let AI think unequivocally for you. Let it be a foundation – for brainstorming, for helping you think outside your own little box. But then, use the material that AI suggests for you and mold it into your own – your own poem, your own memories, your own story.

Be authentically you on the page. That’s something AI cannot do. And right now, the world needs more genuinely interested, deep-thinking creative people to inspire, educate and hold others accountable.

*Do you use AI in your creative work? If so, how?

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3 Ways to Get Feedback on Your Work-in-Progress

As an editor, writing coach and manager of an online writing community, I frequently encounter questions about how writers can receive feedback on their works-in-progress.

Often a writer new to my membership platform asks if they can post their work on the site so that others might read it and offer feedback.

A writing community where writers can both give and receive feedback is an incredible resource, and both receiving AND giving feedback makes you a better writer. Julia Cameron writes that “It often takes another artist to see the embryonic work that is trying to sprout.”

People want their work to be read. But I fear that too few people stop there, without asking what receiving feedback on their work is worth to them – or what receiving feedback even looks like.

This fall, I am excited to launch my first Small Writing Group Cohort, where I’ll help up to 10 writers learn how to give and receive meaningful feedback on their works-in-progress. Together, we’ll get to know each other’s work and learn what to look for when analyzing a piece of writing. Each writer will receive in-depth feedback on a work-in-progress of their choice, and at the end of the six-week cohort, they will have the opportunity to continue meeting as a dedicated writing group, armed with the resources and knowledge of what makes a strong critique. You can learn more and sign up for the Cohort here. (Note: If you’re a StoryCore member, please sign up inside the StoryCore community. See more on StoryCore here.)

But I want you to keep reading, because there is more than one way to receive feedback on a piece of writing.

About two years ago, I launched The Writers Salon, a free writing community focused on building lively and supportive dialogue around the thing that unites us: writing. I wanted to help writers find accountability, make time to write, and connect with other writers.

While these are all noble values, I found that some writers on the platform wanted more. They wanted their work to be seen and read. They wanted to know whether an idea they were bringing to life carried weight – whether it was good, whether it mattered.

One of the things I envisioned when I launched The Writers Salon was to build out Circles – small writing groups of 8-10 writers who could regularly come together based on genre, goals or even physical location. One way to receive feedback on your writing is to join a writing group. But not all writing groups are created equal. I wanted to offer an inviting space where writers could feel comfortable talking and asking questions about their work. You can use The Writers Salon to find other writers in your genre and personally reach out to them. Introduce yourself to those writers and ask if anyone would like to be part of a feedback group.

Another way to seek feedback on your work is to find an accountability partner. Accountability partners can be excellent resources for just about anything, including writing. Together, you establish goals and parameters for your writing practice, and you decide how you might exchange work for feedback. You can use The Writers Salon to seek an accountability partner or reach out to your own network of friends and creatives. Watch as both of you grow in your writing and in your creative output!

As a writer, editor and writing coach, I live to encourage people to tune in to their stories. I am your advocate, your cheerleader spurring you to write more and write better. If you want to get your work in front of others and see tremendous growth in your writing and storytelling skills, there is nothing like giving and receiving feedback on your drafts.

To re-cap, if you’re serious about getting your work in front of an audience to improve your writing and your storytelling and language skills, here are three ways to do it:

1) Use your own network or The Writers Salon to find other writers in your genre and personally reach out to them. Ask if anyone would like to be part of a writing critique group. A critique group needs structure and leadership, so be ready to answer questions about how the group will run, how often it will meet, and set parameters for how many words or pages you and others are willing to critique in exchange for critique of your own work.

2) Seek an accountability partner. A good accountability partner will help you clarify and stick to your goals, and you return the favor by doing the same for that person. Again, you can tap into your own network to seek an accountability or join us in The Writers Salon.

3) Join my first small writing group cohort and learn how to give and receive feedback on works-in-progress, nurtured alongside up to 10 writers.

When you seek feedback on your writing, it’s important to have some sort of structure in place, a set of expectations. Too often, when writers ask for feedback on a work-in-progress, they don’t take the next step by asking what they want to gain from that feedback.

When you join the Writing Group Cohort, you will receive feedback on a work-in-progress, from myself and other writers in the group. You will also be asked to offer feedback to others’ works-in-progress. At the end of our time together, you will have the option to continue in the small group that you spent the previous six weeks getting to know. You finish the cohort with a ready-made writers group.

When it comes to receiving feedback on your work, you can figure out the details on your own. Or, you can be a part of a dedicated small group that already has the structure in place for you.

Remember, the more you put into your writing and giving and receiving feedback, the more you’ll get out of it. If I can help you with anything along the way, please reach out. I want to help you build your story, bring your idea to life and reach more people with your words!

Making the Case for Writers Groups

Why writing groups are crucial, where to find them and 6 questions to consider before joining one

I have a huge heart for writers groups. Writing (as you probably know) is often lonely work, but part of our human condition is to belong in a community, and as creative people, it becomes especially important for not just our well-being, but our growth as craftsmen. Being a part of a group that shares a creative interest is often just the sense of community a writer needs, and the catalyst for improved and successful work.

Why a writers group is a crucial component to your growth as a writer

Writers groups provide so many advantages to your growth as BOTH a writer and a reader. Regular meetings, even online, can help you improve your craft, keep you accountable to your writing goals and expose you to new writers and timeless work. When others are counting on you to show up (whether to a group meeting or to your desk to produce new work for the next meeting), you are less likely to renege on your commitment.

 

By networking with other writers, you are putting yourself out there and opening yourself up to new opportunities, challenges and resources. In the process, you also have countless opportunities to help other writers improve their craft. And believe it or not, helping others improve their writing naturally helps you improve yours.

 

What’s more, scrutinizing your own work and others’ work helps you become a more seasoned reader and editor of your own work. It is far easier to recognize weaknesses and shortcomings in others’ work than it is to recognize them in your own. But as you read and talk about work that is not yours, you will start to recognize areas in your own writing that can be stronger.

What type of writing group is best for you?

Yet not all writers groups are created equal. Some writers crave a community that provides regular writing prompts and opportunities to generate new work. Other writers seek a safe space where they can receive respectful but honest feedback on their work-in-progress. Still others love a scene where like-minded creatives read their work out loud. What works best for you depends a lot on your writing goals and a little on your personality — what makes you tick. An extrovert may seek different qualities of a writer’s group than an introvert. The ideal writers group for a writer looking to generate new work may not be the best group for a writer whose number-one goal is to finish and publish a first book.

6 Questions to consider before joining a writing group

In the 15 years that I’ve led and participated in writers groups, my conviction that writers groups are a fundamental part of the writing life has only grown stronger. But a writers group will only work for you if it aligns with your own goals as a writer. Consider these 6 questions before joining a group:

In what genre do you primarily write? Is it important to you that other members of the group write in your same genre?How would you prefer to meet with a group? Once per week? Once per month?Would you prefer to meet weekdays, weeknights, or on weekends?What focus(es) would you want to see in a writers group? Would you want to produce new work during group time? Revise works-in-progress? Have your work read and critiqued by others? Read your work aloud? Study books on writing and the writing craft?Is the size of the group an important factor to you? Do you thrive in small groups of less than 10 people? Or are large groups more your jam?Do you prefer to meet in person with others writers, or are you more interested in meeting with writers remotely via Zoom, Facebook Live or another online platform?

Just because we’re writers doesn’t mean we’ll all benefit from the same type or structure of writing group. As you can see, there are many ways to structure a writing group, and different features will appeal to different people. Moreover, keep in mind that your answers to these questions might change over time, and that’s okay. For example, you may not be comfortable meeting in person right now but would like to join an in-person group eventually.

Regardless of your preferences and your writing goals, one thing is true for all of us as writers: we can all benefit from a creative community.

Where to find a writing group

Knowing what you want out of a writers group is a big step toward finding a group that is right for you. Once you know what you’re looking for, then you can search for a group, armed with clear answers to guide you. But where to look? Where can you find a writing group that fits your writing goals and your personality?

Of course, knowing where to look for a group largely depends on what you’re looking for. Here are a few places to find writers groups:

www.meetup.com – a go-to for just about any interest around which people can gather. On Meetup, you can search for groups by keyword, physical location and more.Your local bookstore – Bookstores often host community writing groups, and you can find information on the store’s community bulletin board or simply by asking a bookstore employee. If your local bookstore does not have an established writers group, then consider starting one yourself! Poets & Writers Groups | Poets & Writers (pw.org) – a one-stop place where you can connect, communicate and collaborate with other writers, find or start a writing group and peruse resources about writing in communityCommunity bulletin boards – many coffee shops, libraries, bookstores, gyms and other local businesses maintain community bulletin boards to advertise local events and gatherings.  See what’s happening in your community; you might find a writing group worth joining!Social media – Often, writing groups use social media platforms to announce upcoming meetings and attract new members. On Facebook, for example, you can search for writing groups and be as specific as you want: “writing groups near me,” “writing groups for beginners,” “writing groups for fiction writers,” etc.Writing Cohorts with Kate Meadows Writing & Editing – If you’re looking for a small writing group where you can grow in the craft and receive feedback on your work, while being nurtured by a professional writer and editor, then I invite you to join an upcoming Writers Cohort with me. Cohorts are offered several times a year for up to 12 writers per group. We meet weekly online for six weeks, and you’ll learn the tremendous benefits of giving and receiving feedback on works-in-progress. Plus, you’ll walk away with substantial feedback on your own work-in-progress, and you’ll have the option to continue meeting as a dedicated, exclusive writing group after the Cohort ends. Learn more here, or contact me if you have questions!

If you know what you want in a writers group but can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, consider starting a group yourself. I promise this is not as scary as it sounds. Chances are what you’re seeking in a creative community others are, too. The challenge (and I like to think of it as a fun challenge) is to find where those people are and invite them. If you’re nervous about inviting people to a group, put yourself in their shoes. How would it feel to be invited to a group of creative-minded people who share a common passion?

Go forth and write -- in community

Do you belong to a writers group? If not, consider joining a group today as an important step to improving your craft and making connections. Networking. Improvement of the craft. Opportunities to submit and share your work. New ideas and new takes on old ideas. Lasting connections and friendships and strong bonds of trust.

A writers group offers all of these. When you join a good one, you’ll grow in ways you can’t imagine. And, you’ll be helping others grow in the process.

If that’s not a definition of “community” — something we all need — then I don’t know what is.

3 Types of Editing and the Differences Between Them

“Editing” is a pretty all-inclusive term. Many people use it interchangeably with “proofreading,” thinking the goal is the same. You want clean written content, right? Isn’t that what matters?

Well, yes. But clean content is not always the only thing that matters. Editing can be an all-encompassing process, depending on the writer’s end goal. If it’s simply clean copy you’re after, then a thorough proofread might be all you need. But what if you want to make sure your ideas flow, your language is hard-hitting, your message or story is as clear as it can be?

That’s where some more in-depth editing can be your friend. In the writing and editing industry, wordsmiths commonly throw around terms such as “copyediting,” “line editing” and “developmental editing.” But when you’re a business owner or a creative writer who just needs help making your words flow, does it really matter what type of edit you request? What’s the difference between them, anyway?

Read on to learn about the three most common types of editing and what sets them apart:

Developmental editing

Developmental editing (also known as comprehensive editing) takes into account the big picture of your written content and considers how all of the smaller details that comprise that big picture work together. I commonly use the “forest-through-the trees” cliché to explain developmental editing to my clients. If your written content is the forest, we aim to better understand the forest by examining all of the trees that collectively create it. We focus on organization, flow, momentum and pacing. In creative work we consider plot and character development. We work on voice, story or brand consistency and style. Line editing and proofreading are included in a developmental edit. We aim to better understand the big picture by thoroughly examining all of its pieces — one at a time and then as parts that work together.

Line editing

Line editing considers the big picture of how you communicate a story to a reader. Where attention in developmental editing is on the big picture and the many facets that comprise the big picture, line editing more heavily focuses on the big picture and the writer’s general style. Do you focus on fresh details, or do you use clichés? Do you drill down into specifics, or is your writing more broad? A good line edit will point out over-used words and phrases, lacks in consistency and confusing passages or transitions. A thorough line editor will suggest how and where the writing can be tighter, simpler and more concise.

Copyediting

Copyediting is a lesser known cousin of developmental and line editing that drills down into the more technical aspects of putting words together. Copyediting takes into account grammar, punctuation and spelling, and pays particular attention to consistency across content, often adhering to a specific style guide, such as AP, Chicago, MLA or Turabian. This type of editing ensures that content is properly formatted (for example, all bullet points are visible and properly indented, captions match images, no sentence is missing a period, etc.) and clean.

A copy edit will also point out any factual or descriptive inconsistencies. For example, let’s say you are describing a school classroom with an east-facing window. Then, further along in the piece, a character marvels at the blazing sunset as she stares out that window. A good copy editor will catch the discrepancy — you can’t view a sunset from a window that faces east. Or, let’s say you are preparing a presentation for your company on the history of a product. One slide says the product launched in 1961. Another slide says that the developers celebrated the 50th anniversary of the product launch in 2001. A good copy editor will catch that error: The difference between 1961 and 2001 is 40 years (not 50).

Proofreading

And finally, there is that darling of the editing family called proofreading. Despite what many people think, “proofreading” is not the same as “editing.” Where editing takes a harder, closer look at both the whole and the parts of a piece of writing, proofreading is really where the grammar police show up. Proofreading sticks exclusively to the mechanics of a piece of written content to ensure proper grammar, punctuation and spelling throughout. At its best, proofreading might be considered “editing-lite.” It is often the final step before publication or sharing your writing with others.

So does it matter what type of editing or proofreading service you seek? That depends on your end goal. A professional editor can help you tremendously — and I would submit that every writer, website owner, business owner, anyone with written content they want or hope to share with others — needs one. Your words belong to you. You want them to adequately reflect who you are.

Do you want Grandma to eat dinner with you? (Let’s eat, Grandma!)

Or do you want to eat Grandma for dinner? (Let’s eat Grandma!)

Learn how working with Kate Meadows Writing & Editing can help bring your words to a new level. [Book a discovery call] today!

The post 3 Types of Editing and the Differences Between Them appeared first on Kate Meadows Writing & Editing.

10 Writing Prompts to Recharge Your Creativity

We are well into the second quarter of the year. How have your 2024 writing goals for 2024 been going? 

 

You don’t have to answer. But if you’re feeling convicted by that question – or you’re just ready to step up your writing game a notch, then keep reading.

 

Writing is a discipline. But it should also be fun. What is one of the best ways to get back into a writing routine or get over a creative writing slump?

 

By utilizing writing prompts.

 

A writing prompt can be a sweet little gift to our creative energy, letting us play with story and words in ways we might not have otherwise considered. Even if you’re in the middle of a piece that has nothing to do with the prompt, you might find that breaking from your intended subject into a more playful topic frees your mind up to get back to your work refreshed and inspired. 

 

In the first quarter of the year, I asked my readers to share some of their favorite writing prompts. They did, and we’ve pulled some of them together below. (If you are one of the readers who shared a prompt, thank you!) Tackle one or all (one at a time, of course!) and see where the writing takes you!

 

If you’re looking for a re-charge on your writing goals for the year, we’d love for you to join us on June 1 for a free goal-setting webinar for writers. “Take the Next Step” will be a jam-packed session of reflection, planning and learning how to make progress with your writing project or writing routine. You can learn more and sign up here.

Here are 10 writing prompts to help you break through your creative rut and re-energize your writing: 1) If you could be any fictional book or TV character, who would you be, and why? Up the ante: Write a monologue in this character’s voice, extolling their own virtues.
2) Turn to the news. Find a juicy headline - don’t read the article! - and write a short story or a fictional news article inspired by the headline.
3) What is your favorite piece of furniture? Why do you love it? What does it mean to you? What stories does it hold? Up the ante: Write as if you ARE the piece of furniture.
4) Firsts are terribly important to us. Remember losing your first tooth, your first day of school, or your first kiss? Write about one of your firsts. What was so important about this first at the time, and is it still important to you now? 5) Write a scene about overcoming a monster. What, in your own life, has been a “monster?” Think in terms of a person, a place, an experience, or a particular struggle in which you triumphed.
6) Write about something you’ve found. Don’t overlook the menial, like a lost sock under the couch, or something humorous, like a wig outside a bar.
7) Introducing her book, Autumn Song: Essays on Absence, Patrice Gopo writes: “We all live lives littered with what we leave behind: places we once lived, friendships we once had, dreams we once envisioned, the people we once were.” Write a story/poem/essay on something (or someone) you left behind. What was the catalyst of the leaving, and how was that leaving a turning point in your life?
8) Have a furry companion? Sit them down for an interview, and write in their voice their answers to your most probing questions.
9) Think of the last public place you’ve ventured. Can you recall any individuals who drew your eye, either by their appearance or their actions? Write a short story about this person.
10) Take to ChatGPT. Choose a character, a place, and an action your character might do. Type, “Give me a writing prompt about a ____ who does _____ in _____.” See what you and an AI companion can come up with.

We want to know which prompts you’re trying, what you’ve written, and how it’s going. Post a comment below, or send us a message via the Contact form! Don’t forget to sign up for the free goal-setting workshop for writers, happening June 1.

Happy writing!