A Writing Coach is your guide through the writing process who supports you both creatively and tactically to ensure you reach your project’s end.

For me, this means working with clients on not just their projects, but their relationship with writing as a whole. So often, we find writing can elicit feelings of anxiety and fear of judgment. It is all too easy to tell ourselves that we are not ‘good enough’ to write that book or blog post, or to give up when the first wave of discomfort appears. Often the first question I get asked as a coach is ‘Can Anyone Write’ which I’ve explored in this post.

Tldr: Yes. I believe anyone can. But, that doesn’t mean that everyone will.

Working with a Writing Coach is an investment into yourself to not only improve your writing, but your relationship with it. They add an additional level of security and are there every step of the way to ensure that you reach your goals.

Coaches also often work holistically, addressing beyond just personal or professional aspects of a client’s life. Over time, coaches will lead individuals through the development of problem-solving and self-editing skills, valuable assets for navigating life challenges independently and fostering resilience in the face of future obstacles.

Through continuous guidance and support, working with a writing coach improves not only your technical capabilities but also your confidence and self-discipline. This increased self-assurance is a long-term benefit, enabling clients to tackle future projects with a stronger sense of competence. Whether pursuing writing professionally or using writing skills in another field, this long-term value can contribute to career advancement with increased opportunities and marketability.

That being said, a Writing Coach may not be for everyone. It is important to consider whether you are ready to set out on a journey of overall growth, and if you have the time and energy bandwidth to commit to doing the work.

Here are three of the most common questions I am asked as a Creative Coach and Writer to help you to decide if coaching is right for you:

What does a Writing Coach do?

Many people have the desire and vision to work on a project such as a memoir, novel, or self-help book, but struggle with where to begin. That’s where a writing coach comes in. They will build you a tailored timeline with weekly goals and check-ins to make sure your project is moving forward as well as offering invaluable advice along the way. Serving as a collaborator, mentor, and effective communicator, the coach supports a client and facilitates breakthroughs that go beyond writing into personal and professional realms.

By acting as the bridge between your current self and your creative self, a skilled coach can help you stay on track with your goals when self-doubt and distraction may otherwise get in the way. They help navigate writer’s block, build confidence, and take the responsibility of accountability and progress-tracking off of your shoulders.

How does Coaching work?

A coach will typically meet with their client every 2-3 weeks for around 90 minutes. These meetings are used to discuss personal updates, project progression, and the completion of goals. Coaching often surpasses project-based conversation to allow a client to have the space to explore their emotional status at that moment, as well as any difficulties faced since their last meeting.

The goal of coaching is never to judge or punish a client, but to support them through the highs and lows of the writing process. They will hold you accountable for sticking to your goals, whilst validating any challenging situations or emotions hit along the way.

In between sessions, a coach is available via email to support you or respond to questions. They may also act as a beta-reader and editor for your written work, providing notes and feedback when needed.

How do I find a Coach?

Coaches can be found in a multitude of ways. Often they will have their own websites, like this one, or a social media presence to share their methods and expertise. Searching online or on LinkedIn for a specific coaching niche may help you in your search.

Most coaches will offer a free consultation call to meet with them and test out your potential coach-coachee chemistry (you can book with me here).

Ultimately, a writing coach is a commitment, both financially and time-wise, to yourself and your project. It is the first step in committing to a journey of growth, confidence, and countless opportunities.

Are you ready to take that step? Leave a comment below to learn more.