The Daily Writer

Much of the “writing life” isn’t really about writing. It’s about relationships. After all, it’s pretty hard to have a successful business or career without people. To that end, I offer five simple (but not always easy!) ways to add value to people. They don’t have anything to do with writing, but they have everything to do with people.

Almost everybody wants to write a book, but many people don’t have the time, skill, patience, confidence, or discipline to see it through. However, many people are genuinely motivated to write their own book, but they don’t know where to start. Those are the ones I try to encourage and help in whatever ways make sense. Here are a few ways I do that.

Whether or not you’re a fan of country music, you’ve probably come across Ella Langley’s monster song, Choosin’ Texas . It’s a genius-level song that contains three important lessons for writers of all kinds. Let’s explore.

If you’re wrestling with figuring out the pathway between where you are and where you want to be, today’s episode will help you get clarity.

I’ll bet there’s at least one big project you’ve been wanting to get to for a while. But it feels so big, so daunting and imposing, that you’re paralyzed by indecision on how to even get started. If you’re stuck, use the “snowball method” to build some momentum.

Let’s talk about the #1 quality that will help lead you to more success in your writing … and life. To read more about the book I reference in this episode, grab it here: 18 Words to Live By: A Father’s Wisdom on What Matters Most

Yes, you do. If you’ve felt this way before—wondering what you should write about—let’s dive into a quick list of twelve ways to pull material out of your mind.

In which we explore the thorny issue of how faith intersects with your business as a writer. You might be surprised at my take on this.

Looking for some creative inspiration? You’ll definitely find it on this episode as I talk about my seven favorite novels.  You can grab a copy of my book on creativity here: The Artist’s Suitcase: 26 Essentials for the Creative Journey

In this episode, we’ll explore three ways to develop your unique voice as a writer and stand out from the crowd.

There’s a saying attributed to Plato: “Be kind, for everyone is fighting a hard battle.” I’m pretty confident that no matter who you are, you’re going through something . But you’ve got this. Here are three reasons I believe in you.

Dante famously wrote in his Inferno , “Mid-way in life’s journey I found myself in a dark wood, having lost the way.” If you’re feeling a little lost, let’s talk about two ways writing helps you find your way.

The Writer’s Notebook is a monthly digest where we dive into books, questions, and resources to help you become the author of your own life . I hope these pique your interest and give you something to think about. Register for the following events I reference in this episode: Tuesday, September 8: I’m sponsoring and speaking at the monthly NTx Network Lunch at The Commons coworking space in St. Ch...

If you’ve never used a calendar to organize and plan your writing, this episode will help you be far more productive and effective.

We’ve all had lots of help getting to whatever level of success we enjoy. It’s important to thank those who helped us along the way.

In which we explore a famous line from “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure” and how it can help you be bolder as a writer.

The vast majority of people who offer writing and editing services completely neglect this little secret. When you put it into practice, it’s much easier to find clients.

Emotional weather patterns come and go. But a true blue-collar writer is like a rock: stable, steady, unmoved. Let’s explore how to show up like this every day.

It’s an all-too-common problem among writers: we know what to do, but how do we get ourselves to do it? The secret lies in a simple exercise that will help you identify the internal and external forces driving your actions.

Let’s explore a simple way to write a 30,000-word full-length book in under three months.

When life is full and it feels like you’re living in chaos, how do you get your writing done? Let’s explore three simple tips to help you get there.

Authorship is a philosophy, a life orientation if you will, that is focused on helping you become the author of your own life . Here are ten non-writing ways to practice authorship:

Let’s dive into seven ways to build your writing business by focusing on specific strategies and a long-term mindset. 

Many writers today decry the state of things today and believe it’s harder than ever to be successful. I disagree. Let’s explore why the “jungle” may be a dangerous place … but it’s full of life and opportunity.

I was a college professor for many years before going into business as a ghostwriter. I started off part-time and then built my business from there. Let’s dive into seven tips for getting started as a part-time ghostwriter.