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How to Discover Your Writing Genius: 8 Tips to Do Your Best Work

by Henneke | 155 enchanting opinions, add yours? :)

How to Discover Your Writing GeniusHow can you do your best writing?

It’s a big question, and my answer might surprise you.

Because it’s not just about improving your writing skills.

Some other things matter more.

Shall I explain?

Recently, my muse disappeared

My writing felt labored.

I felt disconnected and demotivated. I was down. Everything felt like too much work.

Some might say I should just wait patiently for my muse to return.

But I wanted to feel better.

I wanted to get back to writing. I didn’t want to be patient …

Could I invite my muse back?

Early in my writing career, negative thoughts often prevented me from doing my best work.

My inner critic would whisper in my ear that my writing wasn’t good enough, that I wasn’t creative enough, that the blog post I was working on would flop.

I used to get angry with my inner critic and frustrated with myself. It took ages to get my thoughts down on paper, and I never felt it was good enough.

But over the years, I’ve learned to be friends with my inner critic. I know she’s only trying to help me avoid disappointment and failure. So, I take care of her and reassure her, and she lets me do my work.

So, if my inner critic hadn’t chased my muse away this time, what had happened?

For over a year, I had been working on the Enchanting Copywriting course.

I had not made time to play

I wasn’t trying out new ideas. I wasn’t drawing. I paid little attention to my creative input.

By focusing almost solely on producing my course, I had depleted my creative energy. I started to struggle to concentrate on reading a good book. Instead, I was doomscrolling.

So, in recent weeks, I took a step back.

I challenged myself to walk more to blow the cobwebs away, and I started a fun drawing project to reconnect with my muse.

This post is the result of that fun challenge to create something different.

How to (re)discover your writing genius

Remember, even when you feel empty, you still have ideas, experiences, and stories to share.

Your voice deserves to be heard.

When you feel lost or struggle to write, answer the 8 questions below to invite your muse back and do your best work …

How to Discover Your Writing Genius and Do Your Best Work

Grab the embed code below to display the image on your website:

The following heroes inspired this post

  • Austin Kleon, especially his book Steal Like an Artist (highly recommended!)
  • Brad Stulberg, especially this article about sustainable progress and feeling good enough
  • Maria Popova, especially this post about Polish Poet and Nobel Laureate Wisława Szymborska
  • Liz and Mollie, who inspired me with their diagrams on Instagram

Recommended reading on discovering your writing genius:

How I made peace with my inner critic
7 perfectionism pitfalls in your writing process
How to find your creative voice

Recommended course:

Write It, Don’t Fight It: A Step-by-Step Course to Become a Prolific and Joyful Writer

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Comments

  1. Lux says

    January 4, 2024 at 4:46 am

    I like this so much especially the part about your inner critic. It’s a battle. I’m going to apply this next time Impostor Syndrome kicks in. I’ll tell my inner critic that we’re in this together. Happy New Year!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      January 4, 2024 at 8:44 am

      Yes, try to make friends. It has made a big difference to me. We’re not always good friends but we can now work together okay. Happy New Year, Lux!

      Reply
  2. Patricia says

    January 3, 2024 at 5:53 pm

    Wonderful graphics. As a visual learner they are important. Great ideas for the rebirth of my writing. Thanks
    You have reminded me of the importance of play.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      January 3, 2024 at 8:30 pm

      Thank you, Patricia. I’m glad you found this useful. Happy writing!

      Reply
  3. Sampada says

    January 3, 2024 at 2:44 pm

    Such an awesome piece and graphic, Henneke! Thanks for creating and sharing it 🙂 and happy new year 🙂

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      January 3, 2024 at 3:09 pm

      Thank you, thank you so much, Sampada, not just for your compliment but also for continuing to read my work. That means a lot to me. Happy New Year!

      Reply
  4. Phil LeMaster says

    January 3, 2024 at 12:44 pm

    Whoa!

    Question.

    Are you from the future?

    Perfect post for inspiration on a gray January day.

    Or any day that ends in Y.

    Or Why?

    I hope this message finds you well.

    Thanks

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      January 3, 2024 at 3:07 pm

      From the future? I don’t know. What shall I say?

      We’re having yet another gray day here in England as well. I’m longing for some sunshine.

      In the meantime, thank you for helping me keep my creative well topped up with all your fab book recommendations throughout the year.

      Happy reading in 2024!

      Reply
  5. Kushagra Oberoi says

    January 3, 2024 at 11:53 am

    Hi Henneke!

    Just to let you know…you are one of my creative heroes.

    Such a well-written post!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      January 3, 2024 at 12:23 pm

      Awww. Thank you, Kushagra. That means a lot to me.

      Reply
  6. Sahil Sachdeva says

    October 15, 2021 at 11:56 am

    Hey Henneke,

    Thanks for sharing such beautiful information about content writing. You very well use of infographic as well.

    Regards

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      October 15, 2021 at 12:17 pm

      Thank you, Sahil.

      Reply
  7. Deniz says

    May 18, 2021 at 7:08 am

    Until I knew about you Henneke, wrestling down my inner critic has been a huge mountain with a mile-high climb to the top. Feeding on your advice and following your roadmap to masterly writings (in general) has proven to be insanely helpful. “Asante”

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      May 18, 2021 at 9:36 am

      I’m so glad that my writing is helpful. Happy writing, Deniz! And thanks so much for stopping by again. I appreciate it.

      Reply
  8. Judy says

    January 8, 2021 at 11:59 pm

    Henneke,

    What a wonderful post and graphic!

    Sometimes when we’re focused on output it’s hard to give ourselves the permission to do what’s necessary to nurture our creativity.

    Love the pyramid – now printed and on my office wall (might have to pencil in some coffee).

    Thank you for the inspiration!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      January 9, 2021 at 7:08 pm

      Hi Judy,

      I’m glad you enjoyed it.

      I can get so output-focused that I forget to nurture my creativity, and after some time, I turn up empty. Why is that such a hard lesson to learn for me?

      And yes, the pyramid is personal and it works better when you adapt it to your own needs! 🙂

      Reply
  9. Jenny says

    January 6, 2021 at 4:45 am

    Hello Henneke,
    Love your posts and tips along with the illustrative content! Inspiring and insightful, it helps with new writers like me too. I understand the dull stalls as I experience them sometimes and when it flows it does creatively. In the age of technology one can’t help but scroll sometimes in search for ideas, news, photos, inspiration and information to produce more ideas. I can see how it can take a long time for some people to write a book. Thank you for your tips!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      January 6, 2021 at 9:09 am

      Hello Jenny,
      Thank you for your compliment on my content.

      Scrolling for new ideas can be very useful and inspirational—as long as it’s not distracting us from the hard work of writing. We all need creative input and find the resources that help us stay inspired.

      Happy writing!

      Reply
  10. Clive Richards says

    January 5, 2021 at 12:52 pm

    Brilliant. Actually made me chuckle out loud, no mean feat, & a good thing in itself in these times ! Also remotivated ( no such word methinks) me.
    I loved the “what writing actually entails” bit & the procrastinate, write crappy stuff. I loved the bit about focussing on the process etc. So many good little nuggets of insight which we know about but which mean more when somebody draws deliberate attention to them.
    Thanks a lot.
    Clive

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      January 5, 2021 at 6:26 pm

      Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Clive. I’m glad that this made you chuckle and that you feel motivated again. Happy writing!

      Reply
  11. Lux says

    October 26, 2020 at 9:04 am

    Not buttering you up but you are one of those heroes I study and want to “steal” from. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      October 26, 2020 at 2:57 pm

      Awwww, thank you, Lux 😊

      Reply
  12. Stuart A Williams says

    September 28, 2020 at 2:29 am

    Hey Henneke, tell me if I should lay off the comments. I just want you to know that this graphic was a pleasure to look at. I liked the writing in it. It was a comfortable break from just words – and a refreshing glimpse into your creative process! Thanks!stu

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      September 28, 2020 at 6:41 pm

      Thank you so much for your compliment, Stuart. I much appreciate it. I put a lot of work into this graphic, so it’s go to know you enjoyed it 🙂

      Reply
  13. Caley says

    September 9, 2020 at 9:40 pm

    Very interesting and enjoyable post. I would have to say you are one of my creative heroes- I love your writing style!

    Thank you for the tips, and for creating such beautifully written and enjoyable posts. Your writing comes across as effortless!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      September 9, 2020 at 9:48 pm

      Thank you so much for your lovely compliment, Caley.

      When writing feels effortless to readers, that usually means that a lot of effort has been put in by the writer. I edit a lot 🙂

      Reply
      • Caley says

        September 10, 2020 at 10:45 am

        Well you are doing a splendid job of it!

        Reply
        • Henneke says

          September 10, 2020 at 1:32 pm

          Thank you 🙂

          Reply
  14. Luis Lekhon says

    September 7, 2020 at 8:13 am

    Great post! Eight wonderful questions to keep my writing going, grounded and growing. I’n going to put them in a document and post them on the wall overlooking the corner clutch where I write. Thank you so much for sharing

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      September 7, 2020 at 10:02 am

      What a lovely idea. Happy writing, Luis! And thank you for stopping by 🙂

      Reply
  15. Joost Boer says

    September 6, 2020 at 9:03 am

    Great post Henneke.

    Your infographic is spot-on (and a welcome relief from the generic looking, vector infographics – love the drawing style!).

    We all need to step away from our work generously to recharge and let our creative juices flow. It’s very tempting to keep grinding away. Often all this does is creating a logjam in our brain.

    Speaking of which, I’ll be heading out for a refreshing walk down the river before I get back to it. 🙂

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      September 6, 2020 at 12:56 pm

      I hope you’ve enjoyed your walk. I’m heading out for a bike ride 🙂

      I’m glad you like my hand-drawn images. It’s a lot of work but it’s also a lot of fun.

      Thank you for stopping by 🙂

      Reply
  16. Satyam says

    August 26, 2020 at 3:53 pm

    This was probably the first infographic I read entirely. Great work Henneke! Would love to see more.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 26, 2020 at 6:56 pm

      Thank you, Satyam. You’ll find more on my site 🙂

      Reply
  17. vicki says

    August 24, 2020 at 1:31 am

    Fabulous, timely inspiration Henneke. Love your work.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 24, 2020 at 6:46 pm

      Thank you, Vicki. Happy writing!

      Reply
  18. Timothy Maloy says

    August 17, 2020 at 3:56 am

    Thanks for your post, it was very helpful for me. I will refer to it.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 17, 2020 at 9:32 am

      I’m glad you enjoyed it, Timothy. Happy writing!

      Reply
  19. Paul LeCrone says

    August 17, 2020 at 2:14 am

    Hey Henneke, this popped up on my Twitter feed, a CEO of a big company actually shared it, someone with very good taste in writers! Thanks for making this. The way you use illustrations is top-notch! Made it such a joy to read. And your advice is spot-on, too. You have an eye for color. And a sense for sentences that pop. Quick, to the point, clear, and full of humanity. I’ll be saving this for those moments when my inner critic starts having its way.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 17, 2020 at 9:36 am

      Wow, what a lovely comment full of so many compliments. Thank you, thank you, Paul. And happy writing!

      Reply
  20. Varun Sharma says

    August 14, 2020 at 6:06 am

    Great blog on discovering your writing genius. It is wonderful.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 14, 2020 at 1:58 pm

      I’m glad you enjoyed it, Varun!

      Reply
  21. Hema says

    August 13, 2020 at 6:42 pm

    Awesome Article. Thank You so much. I feel so related and sorted now.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 14, 2020 at 1:57 pm

      Thank you, Hema. Happy writing!

      Reply
  22. June says

    August 11, 2020 at 1:58 am

    Timing is everything, Henneke, as I’m sure you know. This post came at precisely the right moment for me–thank you. Though expressed in a deceptively lighthearted form, through your delightful, heartfelt drawings and lettering, your directives are profoundly wise and useful. (Some of it put me in mind of Julia Cameron’s The Right to Right–the chapters in which she talks about the need to regularly fill your creative well by going to museums, reading brilliant books, among other things, if my memory is serving me right.) And I see that you, too, are a fan of Popova! Her Brain Pickings serve as an endless source of solace, inspiration, and intellectual joy for me.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 11, 2020 at 10:07 am

      Thank you so much for your lovely comment, June. I’m glad you enjoyed this.

      I’ve heard so much about Julia Cameron’s book but somehow never read it (how can that be???). Thanks for the friendly nudge to put it back on my reading list.

      Reply
    • Sampada says

      January 3, 2024 at 2:51 pm

      June, Julia Cameron’s book The Right to Right is one of my all time favourite book! Her book ‘Write for Life’ that she published last Jan is even better. I’m a huge fan of Julia Cameron’s work and ardently practice filling my creative well 🙂

      Reply
  23. Jane says

    August 9, 2020 at 3:26 pm

    Henneke, thank you for another awesome post. This came at just the right time for me.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 9, 2020 at 8:13 pm

      I’m glad it came at the right time for you, Jane. Happy writing!

      Reply
  24. J. Kabamba Kiboko says

    August 7, 2020 at 4:50 am

    The 8 tips are very helpful. I am looking at my inner critic as I type this. She and I will learn to get along. Thanks.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 7, 2020 at 8:53 am

      That sounds good. It can be a bumpy journey but learning to get along is worth it.

      Reply
  25. Andrea Phillips says

    August 6, 2020 at 1:55 pm

    Wow! This is so awesome. Such a perfect combo of words and visuals. Such great imagery and all the advice is spot on for me.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 6, 2020 at 4:42 pm

      What a lovely compliment. Thank you, Andrea ?

      Reply
  26. Liane says

    August 6, 2020 at 1:13 am

    Thank you for sharing this – so comforting and inspiring during these times. Be well and keep creating and sharing joy

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 6, 2020 at 10:09 am

      Thank you, Liane. I hope you’re keeping safe and well, too. ?

      Reply
  27. Ai Ling says

    August 4, 2020 at 4:25 pm

    Henneke, you’re such a talent! Thanks for sharing such excellent piece of work. I totally enjoy it and will keep it as a constant reminder to self.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 4, 2020 at 4:27 pm

      Thank you so much for your lovely compliment, Ai Ling. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Happy writing!

      Reply
  28. Liton Biswas says

    August 4, 2020 at 10:40 am

    Hey Henneke,

    I loved this post. The infographics and sketches are awesome. The post is very motivational for writers. And I liked the quote “All creative work builds on what came before”. That is all time true.

    Thanks for sharing this masterpiece.

    Regards,
    Liton Biswas

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 4, 2020 at 10:42 am

      Thank you for your compliment, Liton. I found it very liberating when I realized that it’s okay to get inspired by other people’s work.

      Reply
  29. Wayne Pulford says

    August 4, 2020 at 12:56 am

    I went through something like this in March, I’m a news junkie, listen to Minnesota Public radio and TV news. I was getting behind in my reading and writing homework. One Friday I didn’t listen to the radio or the TV, caught up with homework. At the end of the day I noticed I was relaxed and could think, my mind wasn’t racing like it was the few weeks before. Since then I limit how much news I listen or watch.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 4, 2020 at 9:37 am

      Thank you for sharing your experience, Wayne. That’s so useful!

      I still find it a struggle to limit myself to the amount of news I read but I’m slowly getting better at it. It matters so much what we give our attention to.

      Reply
  30. Virginia says

    August 2, 2020 at 9:21 pm

    I absolutely LOVED this post. From the peaceful and helpful tone of voice to the infographics and sketches. The questions at the end made me think and reflect, thank you!
    Random question, do you actually have a dog?

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 3, 2020 at 12:18 pm

      I don’t have a dog. This is probably why my dog-drawing skills are so poor. 🙂

      I’m glad you enjoyed this post. Thank you, Virginia. Take care and be safe. ?

      Reply
  31. KWAYE SIVER ANCELLA says

    August 2, 2020 at 8:31 pm

    Hey Henneke,

    You are one of my creative writing heroes. I love your artistic side. Thanks for the write-up. Am still learning to ‘steal like an artist’

    Siver.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 3, 2020 at 12:16 pm

      Thank you so much, Siver. I highly recommend Austin Kleon’s book.

      Reply
  32. Paula Akhile says

    August 1, 2020 at 5:19 pm

    Hello Heneke,
    Yes, I found myself floating around in His arms, and I wonder how I could see everything in such a clear view, yet I was there person.
    Thanks for your precise and straight forward and most upright lectures.
    This is not just a masterpiece but a gold.
    I will forever be grateful for your motivation.
    Please stay safe, we love you.
    Yours sincerely,
    … Paula .

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 1, 2020 at 7:54 pm

      Thank you, Paula. I hope you’re staying safe and well, too.

      Reply
  33. Melissa Brown says

    July 31, 2020 at 10:23 pm

    This is just beautiful–it was definitely time well-spent to create this epic post and images.

    I always love reading your blog posts–yours are the best! I look forward to Tuesdays to see you in my inbox, too.

    Thanks for all you do!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      August 1, 2020 at 7:54 pm

      Thank you so much for your lovely compliment, Melissa. It makes me happy to know you look forward to my writing. ?

      Reply
  34. Brett Riley says

    July 30, 2020 at 10:15 pm

    Hi Henneke. Another great post and what a refreshing way to show it…with characters and diagrams to help explain. Well done!
    The inner critic is that little being inside of us that can sometimes get in the way, not only in our writing but for life in general. Like you say, it creates doubts that we aren’t good enough, which can lead to more serious problems like anxiety, anger, depression and more. Our inner critic, while it may need to be listened to, it can’t be pandered to, and it must not be allowed to take control. Learning this is key to moving forward and not being stuck or paralysed by fear and self doubt. Sometimes this takes time to understand this, but with help and advice it is achievable to take back control. Thanks for creating this fantastic article.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 31, 2020 at 10:02 am

      This is so true: “Our inner critic, while it may need to be listened to, it can’t be pandered to, and it must not be allowed to take control.” I like to allow my inner critic to join me on my journeys as a passenger but she can’t be in charge. She may warn me of impending “danger” but she can’t set out the directions and she’s can’t take over the steering wheel.

      Thank you for stopping by again, Brett. I hope you’re staying safe and well.

      Reply
  35. Maurizio Corre says

    July 30, 2020 at 9:14 am

    Thanks a lot for your post, Henneke. As always you help us to trust ourselves and to go out our inner critics and our comfort zone. Best wishes from Italy!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 30, 2020 at 9:37 am

      Thank you, Maurizio. When I learned to trust myself more when writing, I learned to trust myself more in life generally, too.

      I hope you’re keeping well. ?

      Reply
  36. Jennifer Bowden says

    July 29, 2020 at 11:57 pm

    Love this so much Henneke!
    I’ve often felt like my writing was unoriginal in many ways, even though I get complimented on it.
    Your point #7 really helped me understand my feelings better and now I feel more comfortable with things.
    Thanks again for your awesome advice.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 30, 2020 at 8:47 am

      I’m glad you like it, Jennifer. I read Austin Kleon’s book “Steal Like an Artist” a few years ago, and it helped me understand that originality doesn’t exist. It was really liberating to realize that it’s okay to build on the work that exists already and that we all create our own unique mix of sources to find our authentic voices. I highly recommend his book.

      Reply
  37. Andrew Thomas says

    July 29, 2020 at 6:32 pm

    The amount of time and heart you spent on this post clearly shows. Thanks for this!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 29, 2020 at 6:52 pm

      Thank you, Andrew. That’s a beautiful compliment. Happy writing!

      Reply
  38. Kelly says

    July 29, 2020 at 10:54 am

    This is an “ode” to mindful living Henneke, you’ve found a light-hearted and amusing way of distilling some very meaningful life tips. I’ll be sharing it with my language-learning clients as food for thought. Inspiring, insightful advice as usual, thanks.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 29, 2020 at 10:56 am

      Wow, what a lovely compliment—“an ode to mindful living.” I love that. Thank you, Kelly, and thank you for sharing with your clients.

      Reply
  39. Annamarie says

    July 29, 2020 at 10:15 am

    what a super post you sent us I simply adore all the work you put into this, Amazing, Henneke. Lots of love to you and your critique.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 29, 2020 at 10:23 am

      Thank you so much, Annamarie. I hope you’re staying safe and well. ?

      Reply
  40. Helen Golubeva says

    July 29, 2020 at 9:46 am

    I just can’t say how much I love this infographic! It resonates with my heart so much. Keep up doing the great work, Henneke!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 29, 2020 at 9:49 am

      Thank you so much, Helen. I love to write (and draw) from heart to heart. It’s wonderful when that works.

      Reply
  41. Katharine says

    July 28, 2020 at 9:07 pm

    Sometimes our writing muscle just gets out of shape, I think. Too much extra activity will make us stale, too, perhaps. We’ve had kids graduating from high school, graduating from college, and marrying, plus moving house, living with us while moving house, and even, moving lately, ourselves. Everything becomes an excuse and nothing is getting done with all the essays I began that are languishing in the drafts section. :'(
    I did write a LOT of drafts, though. I totally want to finish them, and I add a few sentences to several, almost every day. There seems to be so much to do, though, that is not writing. Sighs.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 29, 2020 at 9:24 am

      Yes, I agree—sometimes our writing muscle gets out of shape. But it’s also true that sometimes, it’s just not the right time to write. Sometimes, there are just too many other things going on and it’s okay to give ourselves space and time to not write and focus on all the other things.

      I hope you’re keeping well. Take care. ?

      Reply
      • Katharine says

        July 29, 2020 at 1:56 pm

        Yes! I’m well. And glad for that!
        As I hope you are, too. <3

        Reply
  42. Cathy Miller says

    July 28, 2020 at 8:35 pm

    Per usual, I love this post, Henneke. Getting outside our comfort zone is a big boost, in my humble opinion. My specialty niche in business writing is health care and employee benefits. Can you spell comfort in 30+ years in the industry?

    A few years ago, one of my best client contacts took a new position in the logistics industry. She contacted me because we worked well together, she loved my writing, and promised to teach me what I needed to know about this totally foreign (to me) industry.

    To make a long story short, one of the results of this collaboration was a case study that today I still view as the best I’ve written. All because I went outside my comfort zone. Thanks, Henneke, for more inspiration.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 8:40 pm

      What a great story, Cathy. Thank you so much for sharing. It sounds like you didn’t just tiptoe out of your comfort zone; you took a pretty big leap, and it paid off handsomely. How wonderful.

      Reply
  43. D. W. Morris says

    July 28, 2020 at 8:27 pm

    Great post! Eight wonderful questions to keep my writing going, grounded and growing

    I’n going to put them in a document and post them on the wall overlooking the corner clutch where I write.

    Thank you so much for sharing

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 8:38 pm

      What a wonderful idea. Thank you for sharing, and happy writing!

      Reply
  44. Mariluz says

    July 28, 2020 at 7:22 pm

    Loved it!
    I will also like to say that when you are spending time doing things you don’t like, you also feel tired and out of ideas, so its a good idea to review what you are doing and try to spend time in activities that you love.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 8:37 pm

      Yes, that is so true. Thank you for adding that, Mariluz. That’s why I need to keep drawing—even when it seems impossible to make time for it. When I don’t make time to draw, I always run out of energy. I love writing, too, but it’s more tiring than drawing.

      Reply
  45. Sue-Ann says

    July 28, 2020 at 7:07 pm

    Hi Henneke:

    Your best InfoDrawing to date I think…bravo and welcome back to amusing your muse, I bet it feels so good:) Hope so!

    I picked up your mugs two years ago now (Wow) and was just happy to be reminded of #CreativeCourage and so the lion again appearS here…so cool…so needed at a time like this!

    I so resonate with what you’re struggling with as I WANT to create but struggling with so much otherwise makes it hard. But like the messages of love, courage, and creativity in your mug designs, I also often look to your influence in reminding me that even I can make a “tiny ripple” with my writing and creative projects and so I, even if slowly at times, continue to work on that little bitty wave with tiny, muse-wonderings leading the way.

    I’m so grateful for what you write, draw, and share (for myself and for all your wonderful readers, too:) so thank you.

    Oh, and I think it’s funny how the word “procrastinate” in your design is procrastinating itself (haha) in taking two lines for the word! Don’t know if that’s on purpose but I chuckled!!

    Thank you as always, Sue-Ann

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 8:34 pm

      Thank you, Sue-Ann, for your lovely and thoughtful comment. It make me happy to know, you’re having tea (or coffee or hot chocolate) with Henrietta and feel inspired by her messages.

      Henrietta inspires me, too. I couldn’t have made this post without her! 🙂

      And what a fun suggestion on the word procrastinate. I couldn’t get the word to fit on one line so I decided it was okay for it to take two lines. I hadn’t thought of your interpretation that the word itself is procrastinating but that seems the perfect explanation for it. Thank you!

      And here’s to making more ripples!

      Reply
  46. Dalit Berkowitz says

    July 28, 2020 at 7:06 pm

    Wow! There is so much to say about this magnificent post. Thank you for the wise, accessible encouragement, Henneke. I especially love the idea of my inner critic being a scared mini-me. But really, there are several helpful mindset tweaks, beautifully articulated in your drawings too! The images can really make some of the ideas shine forth in fresher ways than just words (but the words are spot on too). Many thanks!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 8:31 pm

      I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed the combination of images and words. Thank you so much for your lovely compliment, Dalit. Happy writing!

      Reply
  47. Nadiia Suprun says

    July 28, 2020 at 6:32 pm

    Hi Henneke,

    It’s an inspiring, colorful and picturesque post. I’ve read it with a great pleasure. And I 100% agree that we should love the process itself then we will be always happy with the result.

    Thank you so much for your enchanting writing.

    Best regards,
    Nadiia

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 8:30 pm

      When we fall in love with the process, it’s much easier to be happy with the result, too, right? And even if we’re not completely happy with the result, then we’ve at least enjoyed the process and we can examine what we want to do differently next time.

      Thank you so much for stopping by, Nadiia. Nice to see you again! 🙂

      Reply
  48. Shayna Gutke Poupko says

    July 28, 2020 at 6:30 pm

    Henneke, I feel that you creeped into my mind and introduced me to myself! On target explanation of what gets the motor running and what stalls us in our writing.
    I loved the content, but the cartoons made me laugh at myself.
    Thank you so much. Now that I have been formally introduced to myself I think I will enjoy getting to know her and how she works.
    Shayna Gutke

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 8:28 pm

      What a lovely comment. Thank you so much for sharing, Shayna. Happy writing!

      Reply
  49. Tamira Olbrich says

    July 28, 2020 at 5:17 pm

    Beautiful! Thank you so much for giving this away. It came in a beautiful time. I have picked up writing as a hobby and your content is what I follow. You are mentioned in the book ‘Womentality’ where a copywriter who recommends you. Now I pass on your name to others as well.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 5:39 pm

      I didn’t know I was mentioned in the book Womentality (I don’t know the book either). I’ll check it out so I can thank the copywriter who recommended me. Thanks so much for letting me know!

      Reply
  50. Vidya Sury says

    July 28, 2020 at 5:04 pm

    You are amazing and always speak to my soul, Henneke. (yeah, I always lurk, I do!) This beautiful graphic is timely for me. I just published a post about how I look okay but I am really not – I just sat down to write and out poured the words. I didn’t bother to edit it and published it. I realized happily that my mind is reasonably organized thanks to years of practice. And yes, I will answer these 8 questions for myself. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 5:38 pm

      Thank you for your lovely compliment, Vidya. I’m so glad you mention that my writing speaks to your soul because that’s how I try to write—from heart to heart, or from soul to soul. I hope you feel better soon. It’s such a tough time. Take care. ?

      Reply
  51. Debbie Larson says

    July 28, 2020 at 4:17 pm

    I love the writing process graphic, especially the organized blocks of thoughts in my mind and then the first draft jumble. So true! Also, focusing on the process versus the results puts the joy back in writing. Trust the process. I tell myself that when I’m struggling and the process always delivers. Great post. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 5:36 pm

      Trusting the process is such a key point. When I learned to trust my process and learned to focus just on the work in front of me, writing became a lot more joyful.

      Reply
  52. Kathy says

    July 28, 2020 at 4:17 pm

    What a great post and epic drawing! It’s so true…when we get stuck, we try to squeeze creativity out of our brains when so much of our inspiration comes from experiencing life.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 5:35 pm

      I guess we’re all taught to try harder but quite often trying harder doesn’t work because what we need is rest or a walk or different creative input.

      Reply
  53. Mary Sue Wilkinson says

    July 28, 2020 at 4:11 pm

    Just what I needed to hear today. Thanks Henneke!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 5:31 pm

      I’m glad it was useful, Mary Sue. Happy writing!

      Reply
  54. Sharon says

    July 28, 2020 at 3:51 pm

    Hi Henneke,

    This is a truly brilliant, insightful e-mail. Very well thought out. I’ve just completed a short presentation on wellbeing for my work team and some of your content echoes mine and the research I’ve been looking into lately. We can’t work non-stop, we need to rest our minds as well as our bodies and our brains need to see something different – do something different. I’ve also be reflecting personally on the comfort zone theory. When we get challenged outside of our comfort zone, especially with short lead times, we can easily become unglued and I think the answer can sometimes be how we approach the challenge. Thinking and reflection help me, so I don’t go down the wrong path and get lost. Your e-mail is very helpful and timely, so thanks again, Sharon

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 5:31 pm

      Thank you so much for your compliment, Sharon.

      I find it fascinating how our brains work. For instance, how we continue to process ideas, even when we’re asleep. It has happened to me so often that I’m stuck with a headline, and the next day, I wake up and I have a good idea. Or I’m stuck with formulating something, so I leave it simmering overnight, and the next day the words just flow.

      I also find that walking makes a big difference. There’s some interesting research into how walking can help us pace our thoughts and boost creativity. Almost all writers (and thinkers) are walkers.

      Reply
  55. Kelly Ann Jones says

    July 28, 2020 at 3:43 pm

    You have been peeking in my windows. I needed this today.

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 5:27 pm

      Ha, yes! I was peeking in your windows 😉

      I hope your muse returns soon, Kelly Ann.

      Reply
  56. Robert Portillo says

    July 28, 2020 at 3:37 pm

    I love this! Especially the part about where creativity comes from. Too much time behind the desk is a sure way to slowly kill creativity. I find that speaking to new people is one of best ways to inspire new thoughts, especially if you really entertain other people’s points of views instead of shutting them down when they make you uncomfortable. And yes, adventures are so important. As are books, and music, and films and any kind of art 🙂

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 5:26 pm

      Yes, that’s so true—any kind of art can inspire our writing (as can any kind of adventures, even armchair adventures like reading a travelogue or watching a documentary). If I feel stuck with writing, it often helps me to start drawing.

      I’m glad you enjoyed this, Robert. Thank you for adding your thoughts.

      Reply
  57. Nicki Goff says

    July 28, 2020 at 3:12 pm

    I’ve been struggling to write for my blog – ideas just don’t translate into words lately. Thank you, thank you for this gentle and inspiring kick in the pants.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 5:24 pm

      It happens to all of us from time to time. I hope your muse returns soon, too, Nicki! Thank you for stopping by.

      Reply
  58. Anita Nelam says

    July 28, 2020 at 3:10 pm

    Brilliant and right on time for me. Love you girlie.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 3:38 pm

      Thanks so much, Anita. Love you, too. ?

      Reply
  59. Rachel Cooper says

    July 28, 2020 at 3:03 pm

    A brilliant, beautiful, and thought provoking piece as always, Henneke. I’ve shared your infographic on Twitter and Facebook. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 3:38 pm

      Thank you so much, Rachel. I appreciate the shares, your comment, and your compliment. Happy writing!

      Reply
  60. Gisela says

    July 28, 2020 at 2:49 pm

    Oh my god Henneke I just found you a few days ago thanks to a friend. This one it was my first reading and I so happy to discover you because you illustrate my present.
    Lately I feel overwhelmed but now I have tools to improve my creativity thank you so much!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 3:37 pm

      I’m so glad you enjoyed this, Gisela.

      I’ve found it really hard not to feel overwhelmed in these times. Even simple things can take a lot of effort, so I try to put the bar not too high and celebrate small achievements. (It doesn’t always work, but it helps!)

      Reply
      • Gisela says

        July 29, 2020 at 12:21 am

        Totally agree!

        Reply
  61. Phil LeMaster says

    July 28, 2020 at 2:46 pm

    Thank you!

    Crappy 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th drafts and more.
    But increasing better. Plan A, B, C, D and more.

    Writing is really rewriting to clear out the cobwebs.
    Polishing to get to the shiny core of good ideas expressed clearly. That need, beg to be shared with the world.

    I love the drawings. And your posts.
    Super powerful in a simple zen way.

    Walks, pedaling a bike, swimming. Good practices anyways.
    On that note I’m in a beautiful place for work.
    Steamboat Springs, CO.
    Time for a soak in some hot springs. To loosen up things. Inside and out.
    Thanks again!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 3:34 pm

      Yes to writing is really rewriting. That’s so true.

      And a soak in a hot spring sounds wonderful. Enjoy!

      Reply
  62. Kelly Beischel says

    July 28, 2020 at 2:21 pm

    I’ve been in the same slump. I love the illustrations and the contrasts of what you thought and what is. I plan to use your 8 questions to bring my best writing self back. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 2:27 pm

      I hope you soon get out of your slump, Kelly! There’s always a way forward even if it sometimes doesn’t feel that way.

      Reply
  63. Lisa Sicard says

    July 28, 2020 at 2:19 pm

    Hi Henneke – I love your infographic! I may use it on one of my blogs in the near future. I think you are on to something about tiptoeing out of your comfort zone and on how to get creative. Sometimes you have to step back 🙂
    Thank you for this and have a great day!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 2:24 pm

      Drawing the diagrams for this post was definitely a little outside my comfort zone as I was worried whether it would make as much sense to others as it did to me. But it’s fun to try something new.

      And yes, you’re welcome to republish the infographic on your blog. It’d be an honor 🙂

      Reply
  64. Kitty Kilian says

    July 28, 2020 at 2:02 pm

    Yep. Don’t I agree!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 2:23 pm

      Is that a first?

      Reply
  65. ken moo says

    July 28, 2020 at 1:50 pm

    Your writing genius certainly came back with force in this one!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 2:22 pm

      Thank you, Ken. Henrietta secretly helped me!

      Reply
  66. Kim Smyth says

    July 28, 2020 at 1:42 pm

    I have started a new project, studying to be a transcriptionist, and put my writing to the side whilst I do that. Then I went on vacation and felt compelled to write about it. One takes away a bit from the other, but what do we have right now but time? Good post, I appreciate it!

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 2:22 pm

      Being a transcriptionist sounds like a tough job to me, especially if people speak very fast or with different accents.

      Isn’t it interesting how when we take a break, the urge to write just returns?

      Reply
  67. Lianne Walker says

    July 28, 2020 at 1:40 pm

    Thanks once again for bringing some sparkle and inspiration to my day.

    This was timely and right on point as always; your illustrations are brilliant too!

    I hope you are staying well and it’s good to see you back in my inbox 🙂

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 2:20 pm

      Thank you so much for your compliment, Lianne. I appreciate you’ve welcomed me back in your inbox. I want to be more consistent this year but I’m not quite there yet.

      Reply
  68. Stan Dubin says

    July 28, 2020 at 1:15 pm

    OMG! A veritable extravaganza of artwork!
    I imagine all of this beautiful artwork has inspired even more creativity! (as you so suggest!)

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 2:17 pm

      Thank you, Stan. I only just finished this so I feel like I need a break now to recover! 😀

      But I’m sure it has helped me to get back on track.

      Reply
  69. Jessica Scheper says

    July 28, 2020 at 1:00 pm

    This is seriously the best post ever. So true, yet sometimes so easy to forget. As usual, it couldn’t come at a better time. Love, love, LOVE this. I will share, as soon as I have my new website up and running. Awesome job, thank you so much.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 2:17 pm

      Thank you so much, Jessica. I also find it easy to forget sometimes. I guess we’re all human 🙂

      Good luck with your new website!

      Reply
  70. Ray Khan says

    July 28, 2020 at 12:54 pm

    Dear Henneke,
    I do hope you are keeping well these days.

    My experience with writing is to just be authentic and honest about your thoughts. It’s risky but the rewards are high. You have to be willing to “cast the first stone” so to speak .

    Occasionally I get some hate mail or criticisms. I laugh at those and they are of value.

    You must develop a thick skin.

    Readers can read between the lines and know when you aren’t being forthright.

    All the best,

    Ray

    PS Reading your newsletters have helped me with my writing so thank you for that. Your great products that you offer are also great value.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 2:16 pm

      Yes to honesty in your writing. I agree. People will sense it when you’re not being honest, when you’re not writing from the heart. It’s so true.

      I hope you’re keeping safe and well, too, Ray. Thank you for stopping by.

      Reply
  71. Bhawna Faujdar says

    July 28, 2020 at 12:14 pm

    Thank you once again for a great post. My voice deserves to be heard, certainly. I need to stop worrying about how my copy will turn out, and instead, just get to work. Some really nice suggestions there 🙂

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 12:18 pm

      Thank you, Bhawna. And yes, your voice deserves to be heard. Happy writing!

      Reply
  72. Sandra de Jong says

    July 28, 2020 at 12:14 pm

    Wow, this is such an inspiring post Henneke. Thank you! I recognise everything, and it’s great to be reminded.

    Especially the part of “focus on results” versus “focus on process”. The first one makes you freeze as a writer, which does not only drive away pleasure, but also makes your writing lousy.

    Love,
    Sandra

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 12:17 pm

      I’m so glad it resonated!

      For me, focusing on the process (or on the work on front of me) is one of the most important lessons I’ve learned, and it helps in other parts of life, too.

      Happy writing, Sandra, and thanks so much for your comment. I appreciate it ?

      Reply
  73. Godwin Oluponmile says

    July 28, 2020 at 12:09 pm

    Hello Henneke, thanks so much for this Infographics guide. Thanks once again for your charity few months ago. I enjoyed the book I bought from you, which is Blogging to win Businesses . I will implore everyone to buy this book and eat from the cake.

    Henneke poured her whole self into the book, and you could be losing out if you have a blog like mine but you haven’t read it.

    In my blog I help Writers secure a lucrative future, writing, and my schedule has been powerful ever since I read your Blogging to Win Business book.

    Thanks for this Infographics… I’m currently at a location where my muse gets stale, but I’ll soon leave. Thanks henneke

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 12:11 pm

      I hope your muse returns soon, Godwin. Happy blogging!

      And thank you for your compliment on my book 🙂

      Reply
  74. Anthony Nderi says

    July 28, 2020 at 12:04 pm

    Hi

    This post has helped me unclog my brain. I have been writing tech stuff for so long, and it is usually bland. Consequently, creating for my 3D work has become quite a challenge, since my stories seem to be bland too.

    Thanks for the advice on this blog. I will be able to kick-start the juicy, crunchy part of my creative self and get back to fun 3D work, even as I write some tech stuff for my clients. (iOS and Android tech stuff)

    I really enjoyed the infographic above. As a person who expresses my thoughts through 3D imagery, it was quite refreshing.

    Keep up the good advice. I enjoy gobbling it up in spoonfuls – scratch that – in ladles

    Thanks.

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 12:08 pm

      That’s wonderful feedback. Thank you. I do feel it’s important to creatively challenge ourselves. Without any new experiments, we do go stale—exactly like you describe. It has happened to me, too. When we find ways to express ourselves better, the more mundane work benefits from our re-invigoration, too.

      Happy writing, Anthony. And thank you for stopping by.

      Reply
  75. Tine Weis says

    July 28, 2020 at 11:57 am

    Hi Henneke
    What a great and creative post. I love the way you illustrate things through short sentences, illustrations and drawings.
    Your muse is definitely back. xx Tine

    Reply
    • Henneke says

      July 28, 2020 at 12:01 pm

      Thank you, Tine. And I think you’re right. Drawing invited my writing muse to come back 🙂

      Reply

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