Writing isn’t just about mastering the mechanics.

It’s about challenging yourself to think differently, to see the world in new ways, and to tap into something deeper—something that requires courage.
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You can write a competent book, but if you haven’t done the inner work, it’s going to lack heart, soul, and the kind of resonance that makes readers feel something. And that inner work? That’s the hard part.

Changing your mindset is brutal—it demands vulnerability, honesty, and, yes, a whole lot of guts.

We writers often focus too much on technique and overlook this. But the truth is, writing what matters requires more than skill. It demands a shift in how you see yourself and your creative process.
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You’ve got to be willing to dig deep, face your fears, and push through the discomfort of not knowing. That’s where the magic happens.

I was reminded of this on a recent trip to Denver. Every time I’m there, I carve out time for a good friend who pushes me to think bigger and deeper. We have the most eye-opening, soul-shaking conversations about creativity, writing, and how our minds work. On this trip we dove into why writing can feel so damn hard—even when the mechanics come easily.
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Creativity isn’t just about producing something. It’s about creating space for those ideas that don’t have immediate answers. It’s about being brave enough to ask yourself the questions that scare you and trusting that something worthwhile will emerge.
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That conversation sticks with me because it reminds me of what I see in my clients.
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The ones who write books with soul aren’t just checking boxes and following formulas. They’re the ones who are willing to go beyond competence. They dig deep, they embrace the unknown, and they write from a place of vulnerability and truth.
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That’s why I always recommend these five books to writers—they push us to step beyond technique and into the space where true creativity lives.
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​1. Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull​
This book takes you behind the scenes at Pixar, but its lessons apply to anyone. Creativity isn’t just about ideas; it’s about creating a culture where those ideas can thrive—even if that means embracing failure. Mistakes are part of the journey. Catmull reminds us that to create something brilliant, you have to be willing to step into the unknown and trust that the process will lead you somewhere. Writing’s no different. You have to trust the mess.
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2. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert​
In Big Magic, Gilbert treats creativity like a living, breathing force. She talks about the wonder and fear that show up whenever you start creating something. Fear is always there, but here’s the thing—you don’t have to let it drive the car. It’s about showing up to write even when it’s scary, even when you don’t know what’s going to happen. Creativity is playful, and it’s fleeting. Invite it in and let it dance with you for a while. You’ll be amazed at what shows up.
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3. The Art of Asking by Amanda Palmer​
Palmer’s book is all about vulnerability and connection. As writers, we can get stuck thinking we have to do it all on our own, but Palmer shows us the opposite. It’s okay to ask for help, to connect, to trust others. For writers, this might mean seeking feedback, finding a community, or just being brave enough to let others see your work. No creative work is born in isolation, and your writing will only get stronger when you learn to trust those connections.
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4. Nobody Wants to Read Your Sh*t by Steven Pressfield​
This book is tough love, plain and simple. Pressfield cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of it: your writing has to matter to your readers. Just because you want to write doesn’t mean anyone else will care—unless you make it matter to them. This book is a slap in the face we all need. Your story needs to serve your audience. Dig deep, be raw, and make it something that grabs them by the heart and refuses to let go.
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5. The Icarus Deception by Seth Godin​
Godin flips the myth of Icarus on its head and says that the real danger isn’t flying too high, it’s flying too low. Playing it safe isn’t going to get you anywhere. Writing that makes a difference? That’s the writing where you take bold risks, where you push past your fear of failure and just go for it. Godin’s message is clear: Stop holding back. Do the work that scares you because that’s the work that matters.
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These five books all share a common thread: they’re about getting out of your own way.

They remind us that writing isn’t just about stringing words together—it’s about digging deep, telling your truth, and being brave enough to put it out there, even when it’s terrifying.
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Here’s the thing: you can sit around waiting for permission or inspiration, but it’s not coming. You have to show up. You have to do the work. Writing isn’t about avoiding fear; it’s about walking straight into it, knowing that what comes out on the other side will be worth it.
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It’s in those moments of deep connection—whether with a friend in Denver or with books that challenge us—that we find the courage to move past competence and into the realm of truly transformative writing.
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So, what are you waiting for? Get writing. Do the thing. There’s no time to waste.

Hello!
My name is Jocelyn.

Story warrior, book lover, day dreamer, gardener, and creative. I help serious writers roll up their sleeves, get their novel ready for publishing, and reach readers. When I’m not elbow-deep in the story trenches, I’m outside world-building in my garden and battling weeds with my three criminal mastermind cats.