This podcast explores the challenges of writer's block, discussing its impact on creativity and ways to overcome it. They highlight the power of writing in business and personal growth, emphasizing its ability to build relationships and establish a personal brand. Additionally, they provide practical advice on overcoming writer's block through discipline and habit, including capturing story ideas and dedicating regular writing time. The host expresses gratitude to the production team and encourages listeners to explore creative individuals mentioned in the episode.
Writing consistently and embracing a writing practice can help overcome writer's block.
Writing is not just about creating content; it is a way to process thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Writer's Block
Writer's block is a common challenge faced by many creators, causing a feeling of panic and avoidance of the blank page. It is often driven by fear of failure, perfectionism, or an overwhelming focus on the end result. Mia Volurello suggests diffusing the power of writer's block by writing for oneself and trusting that the right audience will find the work. Jaya Konzo challenges the notion of writer's block, asserting that it is a construct and a story we tell ourselves. She encourages writers to write through the block and embrace the process, rather than striving for immediate brilliance.
The Importance of Writing Practice
Writing consistently and embracing a writing practice can help overcome writer's block. Beth Dunn shares her experience of writing around a difficult topic, allowing the writing process to lead her to unexpected insights. Mark Schafer emphasizes the need for discipline and habit when it comes to writing. Being aware of story ideas, writing them down, scheduling dedicated creative time, and being relaxed in that time can help prevent writer's block and foster consistency in writing.
Writing as a Thinking Process
Writing is not just about creating content; it is a way to process thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Beth Dunn describes writing as a thought exercise, helping to clarify her ideas and bring coherence to her thoughts. Mark Schafer sees writing as integral to his business, a tool to build relationships and convey expertise. Writing helps creators think, make sense of things, and find clarity in their own understanding.
Embracing the Process and Letting Go of Perfection
Overcoming writer's block requires embracing the writing process and letting go of the pressure to be perfect. Mark Schafer advises not to focus on immediate brilliance, but to consistently pursue curiosity and frustration. Jaya Konzo emphasizes the importance of taking swings at the plate, writing through challenges, and recognizing that even imperfect work can lead to insights and growth.
Writing matters... a lot. You don't need us to tell you that. But what happens when you feel like you can't write? Yes, on this episode we're talking about writers' block - what it feels like, how it shows up, and how we can tackle it once and for all.
SHARE THE SHOW:
Help others find Unthinkable in their favorite podcast player by sharing this link: https://pod.link/jay
Every Friday, I send a new idea, story, or framework for crafting more resonant work to thousands of subscribers, ranging from entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent creators, to marketers and leaders at brands like Adobe, Red Bull, Shopify, Salesforce, the BBC, Wistia, HubSpot, Drift, ProfitWell, a16z, and the New York Times.
DEVELOP MORE INSPIRING IDEAS & STORIES:
Jay's free newsletter, with a new idea for communicating in ways that connect shared every other Friday: jayacunzo.com/newsletter
The Creator Kitchen: Jay's membership for quality-obsessed creators, built in partnership with Melanie Deziel (author, speaker, NY Times, TIME, HuffPost). Use code UNTHINKABLE for $100 off membership.
Jay's 1:1 coaching: book an hour or a month of swapping voice memos -- or book Jay as your dedicated collaborator, coach, exec. producer, and creative partner to develop your ideas and tell more effective stories.