[Re-air] Starting Messy, Building Confidence, and Finding Your Creative Voice with Bob Baker

What if the key to unlocking your creativity as a writer wasn't about perfection, but about embracing the messy process, taking risks, and finding support along the way?

Cynthia Morris is a writer, artist, and certified coach who has spent over two decades helping creatives finally get their ideas out of their heads and onto the page. As the founder of Original Impulse, she's guided countless writers to focus, follow through, and finish their books without burning out.

In this episode, Cynthia talks about how to stay committed to your writing, why accountability is key, how to handle rejection without losing your spark, and what it really takes to finish your book.

The Vulnerability of Writing

Cynthia talks openly about the vulnerability involved in writing. She believes that writing requires a deep level of self-expression, and sometimes, the best stories come from embracing our imperfections. "Writing is an act of generosity," she says. It’s about sharing your story with others, even when it feels scary.

Try this: Write without worrying about how it will turn out. Just let the words flow.

Bonus idea: Reflect on a moment where you felt vulnerable in your own work. What did you learn from it?

The Role of Accountability in Writing

When it comes to staying on track with your writing projects, accountability is a game-changer. Cynthia shares how having the right support system, whether through coaching or writing groups, has helped her stay focused and motivated. "You can’t do anything alone," she says, underscoring the importance of collaboration in the creative process.

Try this: Find someone to check in with on your writing goals. Whether it’s a coach or a fellow writer, accountability helps you stay committed.

Bonus idea: Join a writing group or community where you can share your progress and get feedback.

Embracing Rejection and Building Confidence

Rejection is a part of every creative’s journey, and Cynthia opens up about how it has shaped her growth. You have to try and lot of things and be unafraid of rejection. "You never know what’s going to happen," she says, because big risks can lead to big rewards.

Try this: Reframe rejection as part of the learning process. What can you take from each "no"?

Bonus idea: Make a list of past rejections that later led to something better. You might be surprised by what you uncover.

The Art of Writing a Novel

Cynthia’s journey to writing her first novel, Chasing Sylvia Beach, took 12 years and 17 drafts. But for her, it was more than just the end product. It was about the growth that happened along the way. "Writing a book is quite the thing," Cynthia says. It’s a slow, humbling process that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to fail.

Try this: Break your writing into smaller tasks. What’s one scene or chapter you can focus on today?

Bonus idea: Set a timer for 15 minutes and write freely, without editing. Let go of perfection.

Marketing Your Book: A Continuous Journey

Writing a book is one thing. Getting it out into the world? That’s a whole other challenge. Cynthia talks about the importance of ongoing marketing efforts, and how it’s not just about pushing your book at launch time. "Marketing is an ongoing effort," she says. It’s about building relationships and staying consistent over time.

Try this: Think about how you can build relationships with your readers. What’s one new way you could engage with your audience?

Bonus idea: Write a blog post, share an insight, or connect with readers on social media. Start building your community today.

Success Stories and the Generosity of Writing

Through her coaching work, Cynthia has seen firsthand how embracing vulnerability and authenticity in writing leads to profound transformations. "Writing is an act of generosity," she says. It’s about sharing your truth with others, and in the process, you can help someone else find theirs.

Try this: Think about a story you’ve always wanted to share. What’s stopping you from writing it?

Bonus idea: Reach out to someone who has inspired you through their writing. Let them know how their work has impacted you.

Quick Recap:

• Writing is about embr...