Here’s something about me: I’m radically honest.
So, when you ask whether you need a writing coach, I’m going to give it to you straight — you don’t.
But needing and wanting are two different things. You don’t need a writing coach to become an excellent writer, but you may want one to help you get there faster.
Learning without a writing coach: 5 (not-so-easy) steps
I learned to write without the help of a coach. Instead, I devoted the early years of my life to learning how to do this thing I love. There’s a process anyone can follow to elevate their writing skills and become what most people would call “a good writer.” If you want to replicate it, here it is:
1. Read voraciously
Read the kinds of things you want to write. (But also, occasionally read the kinds of things you don’t plan to write, just to broaden your perspective.) The simple act of reading constantly will elevate your writing more than anything else. If you don’t read, then you can’t write. It’s that simple.
2. Read analytically
When you read, some skills you’ll need to make you a talented writer seep into your psyche by osmosis. But if you really want to make progress, analyze what you read. If a piece of writing engrossed you, try to figure out why it worked so well. Conversely, if you found yourself bored or put off in any way, what caused you to lose interest? Apply your learnings to your own writing.
3. Practice writing
You’ve heard it over and over again — writers write. You can’t become a superb writer without practice. So, journal. Start a blog or start writing on Medium. Craft and submit letters to the editor of your local paper. Craft short stories, even if you don’t plan to submit them. My life has been cluttered with notebook after notebook full of writing since early childhood. Practice makes progress.
4. Study grammar and style
I wouldn’t be an accomplished writer if I hadn’t devoted significant time to learning the rules. (I’m a firm believer in knowing the rules so you can break them with grace and intent when necessary.) Grammar, punctuation, syntax — these are the tools you’ll use in your writing craft. You simply can’t become a skilled writer without them.
5. Get expert feedback
I spent years of my life thinking I was a decent writer before someone came along and showed me how to be an even better one. No matter how much you learn through reading, practicing, and studying, there are nuances that only a skilled writer can help guide you toward. Sure, your friends and family sing your praises when you show them your drafts, but their comments are more of an ego boost. Only an expert mentor can give you the type of feedback that leads you toward “ah-ha!” moments that will ultimately make you a better writer.
So yes, you can learn to write without the help of a coach. It takes time and devotion. If you’re confident in your ability to go it alone, I applaud you! Go, writer, and do the thing you were born to do. I promise you’ll get there if you stay the course.
How a writing coach can help
I believe in the process I outlined above. If you follow it, you’ll become a good writer in time.
But I’ll also acknowledge that it can be challenging to go it alone. Many aspiring writers struggle with big questions like:
- Am I any good at this? Will anyone want to read my writing?
- Does my writing make sense? Will people understand my message?
- What if I’m not cut out to be a writer? Am I just wasting my time?
- Why does writing always feel like such a struggle?
A writing coach can help you answer the nagging questions that plague every writer at one point or another. Here are some things your writing coach might help you accomplish.
Identify your strengths and areas for improvement
A good writing coach will analyze your writing samples to identify your strong points as well as areas that need improvement. You’ll be surprised how much you’ll improve when you have a roadmap that shows you exactly where you are and directs you toward where you want to go.
Develop writing techniques
Believe it or not, coaches (unlike random people on the internet) don’t live for pointing out your mistakes. Maybe you need help with structure, flow, word choice, grammar, syntax, or style. A good writing coach will not only show you what to improve but also teach you how to self-edit so your writing will be stronger.
Set writing goals and stay accountable
Your coach can help you set realistic writing goals. Whether you want to improve in a certain area, increase your output, or complete a big project like a book or screenplay, a coach can help you identify what’s doable and, if you’re in a long-term coaching relationship, even hold your feet to the proverbial fire to keep you motivated and on track.
Get industry guidance
If you’re pursuing publication, seeking a professional writing career, or you’re committed to becoming a content entrepreneur, a coach with industry experience can guide you. If you need help navigating an industry, it’s important to find a coach who has deep experience in that area. Some coaches specialize in pitching to agents and publishers, others have expertise in areas like self-publishing, blogging, business writing, academic writing, and more. (Here’s what I specialize in!)
Build your confidence
Writing can be daunting because, well … are you doing it right? How do you know if you’re any good? With a writing coach as your guide, you’ll develop a much better understanding of yourself as a writer. Maybe you use too many weak verbs or you load your stories with adverbs. Your coach will not only help you identify those quirks but also help you learn to fix them. With your newly discovered self-editing chops, you’ll be able to ditch your insecurities and write with confidence.
With or without a writing coach, you’ve got this!
The truth is, you don’t need a writing coach. Reading, practicing, studying, and seeking out expert feedback (when you can get it) will take you where you want to go. But if you feel stuck, frustrated, and alone, your coach just might become your new bestie.
Although I learned to write on my own, it was critiques and edits from professional writers and accomplished peers that helped me progress faster. The epiphanies you collect when you work with an experienced writer are everything, so gather them wherever you can and incorporate them into your writing.
And then do me one favor (I promise to do the same): Never stop learning.
