The Daily Writer

If you want to reach for something bigger, you need an open hand. And that means letting go of what you’re already holding onto. Might be time to kill your darlings—an old assumption, an outdated habit, or even an old identity that’s holding you back

Have you ever felt stuck in a situation you wanted to change? In this episode, I share a story from my years as a college professor and the simple lesson that has shaped my career ever since: you’ll never hear “yes” if you never ask. If you want a different writing life or business, sometimes the first step is simply having the courage to ask.

Sometimes it’s the little unfinished tasks that drain our mental energy the most. In this episode, I share how “closing open loops” can reduce stress, free up mental bandwidth, and help you focus more fully on your writing and creative work.

A reader recently asked how to pursue a writing career that aligns with your calling. In this episode, I share how I transitioned from college professor to full-time ghostwriter and why I believe your writing career should begin with a clear vision of the life you want to build.

What does success really look like for a writer? In this episode, I share how my definition of success has changed over the years and why I no longer measure it by book sales or big milestones alone. Instead, I focus on making progress every single day.

This moment matters. Make it count. The perfect moment to create is the one you’re living right now.

Have you ever felt like you’ve run out of things to say? In this episode, I answer a reader question by sharing three simple ways I refill my creative well when ideas seem hard to find. If you’ve been feeling stuck, these practical strategies will help you get the ideas flowing again.

People get stuck for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes it’s exhaustion or fear. Or it maybe it’s perfectionism. Whatever the reason, something is blocking the flow of creativity. Maybe you’ve felt that way, too. Have you ever considered that one reason you might feel blocked is that you need to forgive someone? Grab a copy of the book I wrote for my son: 18 Words to Live By: A Father’s Wisdom on Wha...

Have you ever wondered how a daily email goes from a simple idea to a polished piece of writing? I take you behind the scenes of my writing and editing process, sharing the practical workflow I use to create my daily emails and podcast episodes. If you’re looking for a simple system to help you write more consistently, this episode is for you.

On this episode, I answer a question sent in by Lori Melton about how to resume your writing life after reaching a big goal.

One of the biggest obstacles writers face is finding time to write. In this episode, I share a simple strategy that has helped me consistently make progress on my own projects: creating a dedicated block of time for my writing and treating it as a sacred appointment.

What does freedom really mean? In this Independence Day episode, I reflect on leaving a career in higher education to build a business on my own terms and why writing can become a pathway to a life of greater purpose and opportunity.

Should you revise something you wrote years ago? Kent answers a listener question by exploring the difference between the heart of a piece of writing and the craft used to express it. Learn how to improve your writing without losing what made it special in the first place.

What if creativity is as simple as breathing? In this episode, Kent explores the two essential rhythms of the creative life: taking in inspiration and expressing it through your own work. Both are necessary if you want to stay energized and create your best work. You can grab my book on creativity here: The Artist’s Suitcase: 26 Essentials for the Creative Journey

Welcome to the very first edition of The Writer’s Notebook! In this monthly reflection, Kent shares the books, conversations, questions, and projects that shaped his thinking throughout June. His hope is that these insights will encourage you to become the author of your own life.

If you’re subscribed to my email list, you may have wondered why my emails look a certain way. On this episode, I break down seven design choices I’ve made. I encourage you to consider the design choices behind your written communication as well.

Almost everything of value in human culture has a writer behind it. You’re never “just” a writer. You’re a creator of culture. That’s why your words are so important.

I answer a question from email subscriber Misty Knapp. She asks, “How do we transition back into writing after life has thrown us a curveball?”

On today’s episode, I tackle the question of whether you should start your own podcast. It’s hard to give a simple answer because everyone’s goals are different. However, there’s one simple question that will help you immediately.

Email subscriber Lori Melton sent in a question: “What would it look like for me to produce regularly scheduled content more often? Can you give me a simple process or plan?” I answer her question by offering three simple tips to help you write more content, more often.

In this episode, I reflect on one of his most treasured possessions: a notebook of poems written by my grandmother Louise nearly fifty years ago. Grab a copy of 18 Words to Live By: A Father’s Wisdom on What Matters Most I’d love to hear what you’ve been working on lately. Email me at kent@kentsanders.net.

In this episode, I share why taking ownership of your choices is the foundation of authorship. If you want to create meaningful results in your writing and life, it starts by putting yourself in the driver's seat. Grab a copy of 18 Words to Live By: A Father’s Wisdom on What Matters Most I’d love to hear what you’ve been working on lately. Email me at kent@kentsanders.net.

What does it really mean to be a successful writer? It’s all about authorship—not just writing books, but taking ownership of your writing, career, and life.  I’d love to hear what you’ve been working on lately. Email me at kent@kentsanders.net.

Today is my 30th wedding anniversary, and it got me thinking about one of the biggest reasons I’ve been able to pursue a writing career: my wife, Melanie. In this episode, I share why having someone in your corner matters so much—not just for writing, but for life. We all need people who believe in us, encourage us, and help us keep going when things get tough. Who’s in YOUR corner? I’d love to he...

We’re often told that the key to productivity is saying “no” to distractions and protecting our time. But sometimes the most important opportunities come from saying “yes.” In this episode, I share how a small writing workshop with only seven attendees led to a conversation that ultimately changed the trajectory of my career. You never know which invitation, opportunity, or relationship might lead...