Beat the blank page with this 5-day plan with Azul Terronez
Starting a piece of writing can always be intimidating. Whether you’ve written a book before or are venturing into writing for the first time, the blank page can seem overwhelming. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I delve into the various aspects of writing challenges and how they can serve as a catalyst to kickstart your writing journey.
The Menace of the Blank Page
For many writers, the blank page is a daunting adversary. Even seasoned writers can feel demotivated by the sheer emptiness waiting to be filled. This sense of intimidation can stall progress and lead to prolonged periods of inactivity disguised as thoughtful planning. I emphasize that “you can write more in less time if you learn these simple techniques.” Writing challenges offer an ideal platform for channeling these techniques and converting a hesitant start into tangible progress.
The Essence of a Writing Challenge
Community Connection
One of the standout features of writing challenges is the sense of community they foster. Writing can often feel like a solitary endeavor, relegating writers to their minds. I underscore the importance of connecting with others, saying, “Writing in isolation can make you think you’re alone in feeling overwhelmed, but joining a community reveals that these feelings are common among writers.” During a writing challenge, participants share experiences, setbacks, and triumphs, making the journey less lonely and more supported.
Jumpstarting Projects
Every writing project has to start somewhere. The initial inertia—getting into the habit of writing regularly—is vital for maintaining momentum. The 5-day writing challenge aims to provide that much-needed push. I remind everyone, “An object in motion stays in motion,” and these challenges are explicitly designed to get that movement started. They are structured to provide quick wins that can spur further writing, laying a robust foundation for long-term projects.
Accountability Matters
One of the prime benefits of engaging in a writing challenge is built-in accountability. Knowing that there are specific tasks you need to complete each day provides a clear direction. I mention, “Accountability might look different for each person, but it’s essential for completing any project.” You might participate in daily calls, post your work in a group, or follow any other prescribed structure that keeps you on track. This kind of accountability ensures that you remain committed and focused on your writing goals.
Guidance and Mindset
Guidance on what to write and how to approach writing tasks can be incredibly beneficial. Writing challenges often come with expert advice and structured activities to help you navigate through the maze of negative self-talk. I acknowledge, “Thoughts will show up that will convince you various times that you’re not the right writer for this, but having the right mindset is super important.” Simple affirmations like declaring “I am an author” can act as powerful tools for shifting your mindset and reinforcing your commitment to your writing journey.
The Importance of a Writer’s Mindset
Mindset plays a pivotal role in how you approach writing. Constantly questioning your worthiness can be detrimental, leading to a lack of progress and unfulfilled aspirations. I suggest that writing should first and foremost be an act for yourself, saying, “The writing for yourself is far more valuable than the writing you’ll ever do for anyone else.” This inward focus creates a fertile ground for authenticity and creativity, necessary components for any impactful writing.
Real-Life Success Stories
Writing challenges have not only sparked individual writing journeys but have also led to substantial achievements. I share the story of Donald Oss, who “was able to go with the outline of his book and go into the biggest publisher in his country and sold that idea to the publisher and became a published author from this challenge.” These success stories serve as a testament to the potential that can be unlocked by engaging in a structured and supportive writing environment.
Taking the Leap
The benefits of joining a writing challenge are manifold: community support, project momentum, accountability, and expert guidance can collectively transform your writing journey. I call upon all aspiring writers to take action and seize this opportunity. I encapsulate this by emphasizing that writing challenges “can help you have confidence, get clarity, take action, and be ready for the next step.” Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned writer, engaging in a writing challenge can be the key to unlocking your writing potential.
Join the 5-day writing challenge and embark on a transformative journey to becoming the writer you’ve always wanted to be.
Join us again next week for more captivating insights from influential authors and publishing experts. Remember to subscribe to Authors Who Lead and visit our website for more show notes and past interviews.
That’s all for this week. If you have a message inside of you that needs to be written, today is the day to start. Don’t delay—take action.
Episode Resources
Connect with Azul here:
Authors Who Lead
AWL Membership Community
TEDX
Fiction with Purpose Group
Mandala Tree Press Publishing
AWL Coaching Programs
Get a copy of Azul’s first book here:
The Art of Apprenticeship: How to Hack Your Way into Any Industry, Land a Kick-Ass Mentor, and Make A Killing Doing What You Love