Writing Tips To Elevate Your Craft: Insights Over Coffee

By on April 4, 2025

You know that warm and cozy feeling you get when you're sitting at your favorite café, surrounded by the soft hum of conversations and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee? That's how I felt the other day, sharing a table with my good friend Jess. As usual, our conversation circled back to writing, a passion we both hold dear. Jess, like so many of us, was searching for ways to refine her craft, and our conversation was too good not to share. Here are some of the insights we explored together—practical strategies you can start using in your writing today.

Embrace the Writing Process

Jess and I swapped stories about how daunting it can feel to sit down and face the blank page. We've all been there, right? But one thing we both agreed on is the importance of embracing the process. Writing is a journey, with detours, stops, and starts. We reminded each other that perfection isn't the goal on the first draft; instead, it's about letting creativity flow without self-censorship. Jess found it liberating to think of her drafts as molds that could be shaped and reshaped over time.

Develop a Routine

We discussed how successful writers often recommend developing a writing routine. It doesn't have to be a stringent schedule, but finding a consistent time each day to write can make a world of difference. Jess committed to carving out a quiet hour each morning, a time when her mind is fresh and distractions are minimal. It's about finding what suits your lifestyle and sticking to it, much like nurturing a daily habit.

Seek Feedback and Revise

An exciting part of our conversation was about feedback. Jess had always felt a bit uneasy sharing her drafts with others, fearing critique. But we talked about how constructive feedback is invaluable. It opens your eyes to perspectives you might not have considered. Jess decided to join a local writers' group where she could receive and provide thoughtful critiques. Revising drafts based on feedback became one of her favorite parts of writing—it transformed her work in ways she didn't foresee. Here are some tips for effectively incorporating feedback:

  • Be open to all feedback, but don't feel obliged to implement everything. Choose what aligns with your vision.
  • After getting feedback, take some time away from your draft. Return with fresh eyes.
  • Approach revisions in stages, focusing on big-picture issues first before diving into line edits.

Conclusion

Leaving the café that day, Jess and I were both filled with renewed inspiration and the optimism that comes with it. Writing can feel challenging, but with the right strategies in place, it becomes a rewarding process full of learning and growth. Whether you're developing a routine, asking for feedback, or simply enjoying the act of writing, know that you're progressing as a writer every day. Now that you've delved into these insights, you're one step closer to achieving your writing goals. If you're ready to take the next step, explore expert resources designed to help authors succeed. Access the Writer’s Toolkit Here.

About Megan Matthews