Write Things: On the journey to our dreams

Hello writers, 

This is a ‘tip of the iceberg’ newsletter. If you like the topic and would like me to go deeper into it, reply and let me know. 

Idea: On Mindset

You don’t have to publish your stories—or even write them. Creative expression is not an obligation. But if you’ve ever felt guilt, shame, or frustration for not pursuing your writing dreams, let me offer a thought: maybe it’s not the writing itself that’s causing those feelings, but the expectations you’re carrying around it.

Many writers fall into a perfectionist cycle, running from the fear of failure instead of toward the joy of their dreams. In this cycle, everything feels high-stakes. If you fail, what does that mean about you? Your worth? Your talent? Your ability to be taken seriously? To avoid facing these questions, perfectionists often take one of two paths: extreme discipline and control (editing endlessly, working tirelessly), or complete avoidance and procrastination (plotting forever, researching endlessly, or not writing at all).

This cycle might feel normal, even inevitable—but it doesn’t have to be. Imagine a life where you’re not running away from failure but toward your dreams. The difference? It’s not just the destination that changes, but the journey itself.

Running from failure feels heavy, like you’re carrying guilt, shame, and fear. It’s filled with judgment: “This isn’t good enough.” “I’ll never get this right.” “Why can’t I just do this?” Running toward your dreams, on the other hand, feels light, playful, and full of possibilities. It’s driven by curiosity: “What could happen if I try this?” “What new idea might emerge?” “What might I learn from this?”

Both paths will have challenges, but on one, you’re weighed down by your fear of what could go wrong. On the other, you’re energized by your excitement for what could go right. The perfectionist cycle might feel like 'just the way things are,' but it’s just a story—and as writers, we have the power to rewrite stories.

Which journey sounds more like the life you want to live?

Inspiration: "Failure was not an option"

Set a timer for four minutes and write continuously on the prompt above. This week, lean into the images, feelings, or ideas that feel important. Afterward, decide whether to revise, continue, or leave it as is.

Want to get more comfortable sharing your work? Inspire a friend? Forward them this email and share your quick-write with them. Then, ask them to send you theirs. Sharing imperfect work is an excellent way to silence the inner critic and build confidence!

Invitation: Rewrite your story about failure

What if you could step off the path of fear and onto the one guided by your dreams? What if failure wasn’t something to dread but something to welcome—a sign that you’re chasing something meaningful, stretching beyond your comfort zone?

Let’s rewrite the story about failure:

• Failure isn’t the end; it’s a doorway to growth.
• Failure isn’t proof you’re not good enough; it’s proof you’re trying something brave.
• Failure isn’t the opposite of success; it’s the fuel that gets you there.

Think about the journey you want to take. What does running toward your dreams look like? How would it feel to be curious instead of judgmental? To approach writing with playfulness instead of pressure?

Now, take 4 minutes to write a new story about failure—not as the villain of your journey, but as the wise guide teaching you how to grow.

Start with this prompt:"When I fail, I learn…"

If this resonates with you, consider sharing this newsletter or your reflections with a friend, a fellow writer, or someone who might need a new perspective on failure. Conversations like these can remind us that we’re not alone in our struggles—or our dreams.

I wish you and your stories all of the best.

Trevor Martens