Write Things: On Trusting Your Intentions

Hello writers,

How often do you consider what you’re proud of in your writing? What parts feel most important, vital, and unchangeable in your story? 

More importantly, do you trust these feelings?

Idea: On Self-Trust

When you share your writing with others, pay particular attention to the feedback you receive. Whether your friend, neighbour, beta reader, or writing teacher liked it or not is, for the most part, irrelevant. Instead, attempt to understand how your reader experienced the story. 

Did they feel what you intended them to? Find humour in your joke? Understand the depth of the conflict you created? 

Take this feedback as a litmus test–did you accomplish what you intended to?

If they did, then you’ve been successful. If they haven’t, you can decide if you want to adjust how you told your story, seek more feedback, or move on. 

But don’t let feedback determine your writing’s worth. Instead, examine the feedback to see if they valued what you wrote. 

From this perspective, their feedback is a gift, regardless of their opinion. 

Invitation: "A change in the winds"

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.

Forward this email to someone and ask them to do it too! Then share what you’ve written. Sharing imperfect work is a powerful antidote to the poison that is our inner critic.

Invitation: Test Your Intentions

Review something you’ve written and identify what matters most in it. What’s the heart of the piece—the emotion, the moment, the message? What do you want your reader to feel or understand?

Then, share it with someone and ask the tough questions: Did they experience what you intended? Did they see it as you saw it? Listen to their response without explaining or justifying—just take it in.

Now, ask someone else. Compare their reactions. If they align with your intent, your technique is working. If not, consider what might need refining. This is how you learn whether your craft is translating your vision onto the page. Feedback isn’t about approval—it’s about clarity.

I wish you and your stories all the best. 

Trevor Martens

Founder, I Help You Write Things

P.S. My 2025 Mastermind has space for one more dedicated writer. I love to teach, I love to coach, and I love to work with individuals who want to get their writing out there. Sign up for March, and let’s get your manuscript done by Christmas. Payment plans are available.