Best of 2019
Year’s end is always a time for reflection at Cole Smith Writes creative headquarters. (That’s code for my spare bedroom a.k.a. my office and where we keep all the extra quilts…) What did you love to read on the blog … Continued
Why a Clean Writing Desk Matters
Does a clean writing desk actually matter? I humbly but strongly hypothesize that it does. It’s funny, this is one of those topics that elicits a strong response. There seems to be no middle ground. Many experts and … Continued
7 Books to Help Launch Your Writing Career
Do you dream of turning your writing (passion, compulsion, obsession–it’s so much more than a hobby!) into a sustainable career? I’m not going to tell you that it’s easy, or even that it’s easier than working a nine-to-five for someone … Continued
How to Overcome the Obstacles to Write Your Book: Part Three
((This is the third post in the series: How to Overcome the Obstacles to Write Your Book. If you haven’t already, you might want to pause here and go back and read Part One and Part Two. )) … Continued
How to Cultivate Powerful Proximity
Just last week I was listening to this podcast. The guest, Jeff Goins, spoke of the power of proximity for creatives. He specifically spoke about Ernest Hemingway joining the community of American expatriates living in France. “He just hung out … Continued
Exercises to Help You Become a Stronger Writer
Want to become a stronger writer? ** You should. We *all* should. There should always be a little discontent in your heart, a little nibbling gnaw, caused by the scope of your vision. I think it should feel … Continued
How to Discover and Develop Great Ideas
The writing life is an unusual one. During creative seasons, writers can be swimming in a sea of ideas. Other times, it seems ideas are as scarce as water in the desert. If you’re feeling a little dry, here are … Continued
Get Instant Access to the Cole Smith Writes Resource Library
Good news! Now, instead of catching each of these helpful freebies individually, you can find all of them in one easy place. Introducing the Cole Smith Writes Resource Library. Click here for free access! Sometimes, it feels like your … Continued
How to Use Serendipity in Your Writing
Do you remember the last book you read that made you feel breathless to turn the next page? Have you ever been so surprised by a plot twist that it left you reeling … or delighted? You know how much … Continued
How to Start a Writer’s Notebook
Where do you keep your lists, research, and inspiration for your works-in-progress? Are you a digital devotee, or do you prefer to keep it “real” with paper and ink? While digital organizers definitely have their place, I’m a fan of … Continued