A Secret Pro Writers Use to Unlock Their Writing

Hello again Reader,

Remember yesterday when we talked about writer's block? Well, I've got a confession to make, and it involves a secret identity.

One of my Publishing PhD students, Marshall, came to a live Q&A session a few years ago and he told a story:

He had been hunched over his computer, staring at a blank screen with the deadline to get his manuscript to the editor a short time away.

He wanted to know what I would recommend. He needed to get his book done--he had a huge presentation coming up and like every speaker, knew having a book could be a game changer.

I really felt for him because I could tell he was at his wit's end.

That's when I decided to share my secret strategy and encourage him to do it, too.

He needed to create an alter ego. On the spot, that's exactly what we did.

We invented "Max," a suave, confident writer who never second-guessed himself, he wrote whenever and wherever, and churned out a solid manuscript like a seasoned pro. I told him that when the words wouldn't come, to slip into Max's persona.

Within two weeks, the words flowed, the first draft was done. Marshall shared that "Max didn't care about perfectionism or critics. He didn't worry about the final manuscript, or even what it was going to take to turn it into a book. He just wrote."

This little mind trick helped him finish his first book. As he's gained confidence, he's needed Max less and less.

Having an alter ego taught him a valuable lesson, one I hope will help you: sometimes, we need to step outside ourselves to get where we want to go.

Many professional writers use similar techniques. Stephen King has Richard Bachman. J.K. Rowling became Robert Galbraith. These alter egos aren't just for privacy--they're tools to unlock different aspects of creativity.

Now, you don't need to legally change your name or create an elaborate backstory. But adopting a confident "writer persona" can work wonders when you're stuck.

This experience was one of the inspirations behind my book There is No Such Thing as Writer's Block . In it, I dive deeper into mindset shifts and practical techniques that can transform your writing process.

Remember, writer's block isn't about lack of talent--it's about perspective. Sometimes, all you need is to look at your writing from a different angle.

If you're curious about how to craft your own alter ego (and learn more strategies like this), check out the book. It's packed with insights that have helped thousands of writers break through their barriers. You can get it here: https://amzn.to/3WbJ2AN .

Here's to finding your inner Max!

Honorée Corder I help aspiring authors create a revenue-generating business asset in the form of a book. Learn more here .

P.S. Whether you use an alter ego or not, remember: the key is to keep writing. Your words matter, and the world is waiting for what you have to say. In the meantime, don't let writer's block keep you from sharing your knowledge with the world. Grab your copy today and unlock your inner prolific writer! You can get it here .