Book Review - Written: How to Keep Writing and Build a Habit That Lasts reviewed by Wendy H. Jones

 

Motivation and building a writing habit is something which fascinates me. So much so, I have published a book about it myself. However, that does not stop me wanting to know more; I am a great believer that, as writers, we should always be learning. Therefore, when Written by Bec Evans and Chris Smith was published this year (2023 if you are not reading this at the time of publication) I was keen to read it. Luckily, the amazing Dundee Libraries had a copy. Bonus as I also love supporting libraries. 

Blurb

Written is a transformative guide that anyone can use to overcome their blocks and build a successful writing habit.

Many people think that there's only one 'right' way to get the writing done - or that trying harder is the key. Award-winning writers, productivity coaches and co-founders of Prolifiko Bec Evans and Chris Smith know this isn't true. Having coached over 10,000 writers, they've learned that productivity is personal. Their unique, results-driven approach is designed to help you find a realistic and sustainable practice that will get you to the end of any writing project, no matter how stuck you feel.

Applying research from neuroscience and psychology, and based on the authors' own practice and findings, Written will show you how to manage your time effectively, how to visualise and set successful goals, how to recover from setbacks, and ultimately how to create writing habits that work for you. Along the way, you'll hear inspiring and relatable stories from other writers who have overcome their struggles to find success. Each chapter ends with practical coaching exercises that you can start implementing right now.

For anyone with a project they need to get written - whether a business book, thesis or work of fiction - this inspiring book offers practical strategies to beat the inner critic, find time, keep motivated and write.

Review

Not only is this book useful in the extreme, it is also fascinating. Everything you need to get you writing and then keep you writing is contained within its pages. The book is an easy read but exceptionally informative. It feels like you are reading narrative non-fiction, yet it is not that. It is exceptionally informative, taking you through the steps in a logical sequence. I love the fact the chapters are preceded by sketches which literally gives a pictorial overview of what is contained within. An example is shown in the image below. 

I'm loving the reward part of the equation, especially the champagne; not that I'm advocating you drink champagne every day before you balm me for your new found issues with alcohol. 

There are also sections called The Write's Sandbox where the authors take you through exercises to help you go deeper. I would highly recommend you do so as they are beneficial. 

In summary this is a well written book which I feel would be of benefit to all writers. Evans and Smith have brought an excellent new resource to the writing table. 

Writing Challenge 

If you would like to develop your writing habit and form a lifelong daily writing habit, I would like to issue you a challenge. Auscot Publishing and Retreats (full disclosure I am a partner in this brand new business) are running a 30 day writing challenge in June. There will be daily posts with hints, tips, prompts and encouragement to write every day. You can find ups more via Auscot's Facebook Page  

Who's in? Let me know in the comments if you will be joining me and we can keep each other accountable.

About the Author

Wendy H Jones is the multi-award-winning, Amazon #1 international best-selling author of the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries. Her Young Adult Mystery, The Dagger’s Curse was a finalist in the Woman Alive Readers' Choice Award. She is also the retired President of the Scottish Association of Writers, an international public speaker, and runs conferences and workshops on writing, motivation and marketing.  She is the Editor in Chief of Mom's Favorite Reads Magazine and is currently in the process of producing Writers' Narrative a new magazine for writers, the first edition of which will be published in August 2023.  She is also a partner in Auscot Publishing and Retreats an international publishing and writing retreat organisation. Wendy is represented by Amy Collins of Talcott Notch Literary Services. 

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