You're a Writer.

We want to start with writing as something genuine.

We're not looking to be the equivalent of a top 40 hit where everyone loves the melody but there's no real, lasting, meaningful content. That has its place, but we're looking for more.

In this video, we consider the question, "Why do we write?"

Realistically, can any of us compete with "Big Brother" companies these days? New York Times? Coca-Cola? Instagram and Meta? All the captions, all the vanity, all the photos of cats... the sound and fury of the world can overwhelm.

So what can we do? We can't compete. However, we can do something different.

It's simple, really: just love words.

“I think the best way to become a good writer is to read. And the second-best way to become a writer is to be around other good writers.” ~ Waylon Lewis

Writing example: I was so in love with this beautiful woman (or man), and we had such a wonderful time—so many meals and walks. We walked in the park. We walked on the beach. We went for a hike and picnics. I’ve never known a love like this.

Did this example spark your interest at all? Why or why not?

Now try reading this second example:

It was summer of 2014. I hadn’t seen Lila since we were children. I was playing basketball alone by the dark red barn in Vermont. It was a hot, dusty day. It was playing in the parking lot. She walked up, she was wearing a tan corduroy cap with orange letters—I still remember it.

Was this example more or less interesting to read as a reader?

As a writer, using specific language brings the reader into your story and carries them along for the journey.

Waylon shares eight steps toward becoming a (slightly) better writer:

1. You're not a writer unless you're writing. Write daily.

2. Get un-suck. Listen to your writer's block if you have it.

3. Write without trying to impress people by avoiding emotionalism.

4. Drawing in your reader. Package your voice so that it connects with your reader.

5. Live editing is an exciting way to shape your words as you write.

6. Finding your voice through editing. Be humble but also stand up for yourself as a writer.

7. Remember, when editing, that you are a reader first. Don't lose your beginner's mind.

8. Connect genuinely with your reading audience. What is your motivation for sharing your writing?

Any time you're feeling in need of a little practice or you're feeling a bit stuck, try this writing exercise that all types of creatives have used to get them out of their head and onto the page, or canvas, or whatever it is! This is an exercise in being specific and honing our craft.

If you're ready to write your way to a life you love, Elephant Academy's flagship Write your Heart Out Writing Course will show you how.

The full Write your Heart Out course includes:

• 12 hours of video lessons from Waylon Lewis and guest stars—some of the most wonderful thought leaders & writers in our world, today.

• A jewel-like recommended reading list & our precious tool-kit for mindful writing & editing.

• Mindful Quizzes to check your learning as you go.

• Writing prompts to guide you to your voice.

Join our most-loved, best-selling course by checking out the link inside the resources of this section.