Write Things: On investing in your craft

Hello Writers,

With Bitcoin reaching new highs, let’s talk about a different kind of investment.

Idea: On Mindset

With the recent upsurge in the stock and crypto markets, it’s probably a good time to talk about investing—in your writing.

Like the stock market, you’ve got to put something into it if you want any kind of return. Time is our most precious commodity. If you’d like to develop your skills, complete a book, or become a published writer, it will cost you something. Time is one option.

You can also invest your money in your craft: join a writing group, take a course, hire a coach.

Everything in this life has a cost. Our gift is being able to choose what we invest in.

We have the opportunity to spend our time doing what we love, and in return, we grow, create, and maybe even earn a living. What a magnificent life this is!

The only catch is that you have to choose to invest in your craft. If you choose to prioritize other investments—other hobbies, earning income, time with friends and family, or scrolling on your phone—the return you receive will reflect those choices.

This doesn’t mean you need to quit your job or abandon family and friends to be a writer. It simply means that if you want more out of your writing, you’ll need to invest more.

Maybe that looks like writing five minutes a day. Maybe it’s taking an online course once a year.

The more you invest, the more you’ll get back. Repeat until satisfied.

Inspiration: "Work"

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.

I love hearing how different writers approach each prompt. Send yours to [email protected] or reply to this email. I’ll respond to every piece I receive before the next newsletter.

Invitation: Your Writing Investment Plan

This week, think about your personal “writing investment plan.” Where would you like to see growth in your writing journey? 

Choose a goal—whether it’s finishing a story, deepening a skill, or even just enjoying the process more. Then, make a list of ways you could invest in that goal, from daily writing time to joining a group, or even setting aside one hour each week for focused practice.

Now, set a plan to follow through on one of these investments over the next month. This is your invitation to invest in your own potential.

Remember: every bit you put in brings returns you can’t always see immediately, but that compound over time into your unique voice, skill, and accomplishments.

Until next time,

Trevor