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Hello, writer dear.

You’ve probably taken some courses on craft. Attended writing retreats. Listened to podcasts on marketing your writing.

I have. Do. Will again. These things make me a better writer. I’m grateful for them and imagine you are, too.

We’re lucky; writers’ resources are abundant. But some are hard to find—and not because they don’t matter; I think we just place our collective attention elsewhere. For example, most things I know about (managing/sitting with/enduring) writing-related emotions, I taught myself.

I wish I’d had more help. <link to hero> I’m proud of my hard-earned lessons over the years, of course. And I would’ve loved to learn some much quicker—especially when my emotions interfered with my writing.

Writer Dear would’ve helped me learn those lessons.

I knew I was a writer long before I let myself write.

rewrite the below as the emotional journey ~>

Since I was a toddler, books have made me content and curious. In second grade, maybe third, I realized I could create my own. It was the first time I remember feeling that tug—the one that pulls you to write one sentence, then another, because something inside tells you to. That tug pulled a pencil into my hand, a notebook into my lap, words from thin air.

After spending my childhood spinning stories, I became too insecure during most of my twenties to write, despite (still, always) feeling that tug. Thankfully, for the last decade, I’ve conquered, and at times even silenced, my insecurity. I’ve written countless words that no one will ever read, and some that they have.

[Writer Dear subscribers will get]

On the third of each month, you’ll receive the following:

What I’m realizing. This could be a lesson I’m learning, habit I’m forming, skill I’m developing–and how I feel about it.

What I’m writing. I tell you about my current work-in-progress and give an honest check-in about how it’s going.

What I’m reading. In addition to sharing the title and author, I also say what I enjoy or appreciate about it.

What I’m recommending. This is an assortment of books, podcasts, articles (and more!) related to what I’m realizing.  

Because I’m thankful you’re giving me your time, I won’t take up much of it. Each issue is fewer than 1,000 words.

Unless you’re a paid subscriber.

In that case, you’ll receive bonus content, all topical to what I’m realizing that month. For $5/month (or $50/year), you’ll also receive:

An additional recommendation.

What I’m reminding you. This is a note telling you a truth you already know, but might have misplaced in the rubble of competing commitments, self-doubt, and rejection. I hope that when you read it, you hold on to it.

Five writing prompts. These are a combination of brainstorming and meditative, designed to propel your writing.

The financial support from paid subscribers directly adds to my writing life. This bonus content is meant to do the same for yours.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Real Quick. Hopefully, you’ll join me!