Super helpful!

'Stop Worrying; Start Writing' reads like a little informative gem of a book that Sarah has been putting together for many years, in reading countless other books about writing, and through her own experience as an author. Initially, Sarah very kindly allowed me a review copy of the audiobook (which I listened to three times because she has such a calming voice) but I then went and bought the physical book anyway because I wanted to be able to highlight and easily go back to all the parts where I was thinking 'oooohh right'!

Reading this feels like having a serious talking to - in a kind way. It feels like she's sitting you down, and saying, "Right, come on. I'm going to help you get your act together". Because of this, it's not just helpful if you're an aspiring writer, but for me with essay-writing at university too. I'm terrible for procrastinating, and she gives lots of advice and ways of tricking or encouraging yourself to get down to business. Her tone is perfectly judged so that it's evidently coming from a place of empathy and sincere want to help other writers struggling.

On the topic of tone, I also really liked how conversationally this book is written. The fact it's self-published I think suits it perfectly, because you really feel like Sarah's reaching out and talking directly to you. I learnt from reading this about the idea of adopting an online 'mentor' of another author whose advice, books and content you can follow for help - well this book definitely felt like one-on-one mentoring for me.

As someone who appreciates clear, neat structuring, I also thought this aspect was well done; everything's clearly laid out, with key points summarised at the end of each chapter, and quotes from her podcast (The Worried Writer) meaning you benefit from the wisdom of lots of other authors too.

It doesn't matter whether you're struggling to come up with something to write about, writing or editing your first draft, post-publication and between novels, or a seasoned author - there's something helpful in here for everyone (I know, because I've read/heard it four times). If you're at all interested in writing, I would recommend picking this up; it's great for motivation. It's a small book so not a big investment of your time and I'm sure you'll get something out of it, no matter if you're writing fiction or essays like me! (Or go have a listen to her podcast! It's my favourite.)

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For every writer that worries

This audio-version of Stop Worrying; Start Writing is a wonderful addition to any writer’s audio bookshelf. Already the wonderful host of The Worried Writer podcast, Sarah brings all her warm encouragement and practical advice to the numerable worries and anxieties that many writers face. Starting from the very beginning, with setting up a good writing environment, and running all the way to post-publication, Sarah draws upon her own experiences to let writers know that they are not alone in their worries and offers practical solutions to their doubts and fears.

Each chapter delves into specific issues and contains a wealth of information that is brilliantly summarised at the end of each chapter to create bite-sized pieces of advice. Some of the topics discussed include: building the habit, setting goals, tackling procrastination, finding your community, and making friends with your anxiety.

Overall, I would highly recommend Stop Worrying; Start Writing to any writer as a brilliant addition to their arsenal when fighting fear, self-doubt, and procrastination.

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2 people found this helpful

Empowering!

What did you like most about Stop Worrying; Start Writing?

Sarah’s calming voice is perfect for the delivery of the useful and achievable advice she gives on how to overcome hurdles in novel writing, or the walls we build for ourselves as writers. She bravely reveals so many of her own anxieties that it feels as though she with you, leading you by the hand through the book.

Any additional comments?

‘Stop Worrying Start Writing’ has truly armed me against my worries as a writer, made me feel more confident to generate work and I will never think of my anxieties in the same way again (they have now turned into a small purple dragon).

Each chapter has a useful bullet point summary at the end, making the goals feel solid, defined and do-able.

I had already heard some of the tips from being a fan of the 'Worried Writer' podcast, but this book has put them all into one munchable chunk.

I would 100% recommend it to anyone looking to develop good writing habits and become a ‘writer who writes’!

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easy to listen to, reassuring voice and authentic

easy to listen to, a reassuring voice with lots of authentic knowledge and personal experience. very helpful

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solid advice

Well narrated, clear guidance on writing and how to structure yourself.

this book is a good starting guide on how to overcome worries, structure your expectations and the sort of hurdles you can expect - both external and internal.

it doesnt say HOW you should write but instead guides you to your own method and advises on the space you can expect and likely internal blockers you will encounter, as well as advised methods for overcoming them. Sarah Painter also provides excellent advice on additional sources, totemic approaches to focus yourself and advice on establishing reliable routines as well as how to flex those routines to suit.

definitely worth picking up as she is also an excellent narrator with a calming approach and steady delivery.

my only complaint is the use of the word "delicious" too much. but that's a personal quibble!

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Coming from a very understanding place.

Sarah Painter has written a very helpful book with a genuine understanding for us writers. There are many tips to help you along the way to beating those doubts. And, with it all tied up in a warm soothing voice, I found it an absolute pleasure to listen while traveling to work. Highly recommended for people at a crossroads in their writing. Just some good old positivity. Something we can all do with. Thank you.

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Inspirational

Fab book , just what I needed to get me started .
I’m going to go back and listen again so it all sinks in
Thank you x

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