From January 19th–21st, Women in Publishing Summit speaker and community member Savannah Gilbo is hosting a live 3-Day Writer Breakthrough Bootcamp to get you out of overthinking and into writing pages. Show up for 30 minutes a day and you’ll leave with a simple plan, a realistic writing rhythm, and your personal draft completion date.
Your $27 ticket includes:
3 days of live training (30 min/day)
Direct access to Savannah for Q&A
Your roadmap from idea to draft
The confidence and clarity to write
Savannah hosts the Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast (3M+ downloads) and has guided 900+ writers from idea to finished draft in her Notes to Novel program. This bootcamp is your chance to learn her proven step-by-step approach—don’t miss out!
In just 30 minutes a day, you’ll discover:
Why “waiting until you’re ready” is keeping you stuck (and the simple mindset shift that changes everything)
The exact framework that helped her student Emily go from 10 years of endless outlining to a complete draft in just 8 weeks
How to find 30 minutes in your day to write—even with work, family, and life’s chaos
How to calculate your personal draft completion date (yes, you’ll do this together!)
This blog post topic was inspired by Episode 190 of Alexa’s Publishing Chat where Alexa Bigwarfe was in conversation with book coach Kate Allyson.
If you’ve ever sat down to write and thought, “Why can’t I focus like other people?”—you’re not alone.
Many creative minds—especially those who are neurodivergent or simply wired a bit differently—struggle with traditional productivity advice. “Write every day.” “Stick to an outline.” “Just focus.”
Sound familiar? That kind of rigid advice can backfire for authors with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, anxiety, or even just busy, nonlinear brains. The good news? There isn’t one “right” way to write—and your process doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.
Let’s explore how you can focus and finish your book by writing your way—not the “normal” way.
Redefine Focus
Focus doesn’t always mean sitting still. For neurodivergent authors, the best concentration often happens when your hands—or mind—are moving in another direction.
Try these creative focus hacks:
Record voice notes while walking or driving.
Brainstorm while doing dishes or folding laundry.
Use tactile fidgets or background music to channel extra energy.
Work in short “power bursts” (15–25 minutes) instead of long sessions.
Your brain may not focus the way productivity gurus expect it to—and that’s okay. Focus on flow, not stillness.
Write How You Think
Linear outlines don’t work for every writer. Some of us see scenes like a movie. Others think in bullet points, metaphors, or sound bites.
Instead of forcing structure early, capture ideas in your natural format first:
Voice memos or video reflections
Sticky notes or whiteboards for mapping scenes
Mind-mapping tools like Miro or Milanote
ChatGPT or AI brainstorming to help you organize scattered thoughts
Once you have ideas captured, then worry about organizing. Your messy, creative process is valid.
Create “Accountability with Compassion”
Deadlines don’t work if they only trigger shame. But accountability—done with empathy—can be life-changing.
Find accountability that motivates, not pressures:
A writing buddy you check in with weekly
A writing coach who understands neurodivergent needs
Co-writing sessions or writing sprints (like those in WIP Society!)
Progress trackers that reward small wins
Remember: accountability is a support system, not a punishment.
Harness “Shiny Object Syndrome”
If your brain constantly floods you with new ideas, that’s creativity at work—not failure.
Instead of trying to suppress new ideas, create a system for capturing them:
Keep a “parking lot” document for new ideas.
Schedule one “idea day” each month to explore new concepts.
Use unused ideas later for short stories, newsletters, or workshops.
This turns distraction into a content goldmine.
Use Tools That Work with Your Brain
The right tools make a world of difference. Try these:
Talk-to-text for fast, pressure-free drafting.
Focus apps like Forest or Freedom to block distractions.
AI tools (like ChatGPT) to clean up drafts or brainstorm titles—ethically.
Timers or “body doubling” videos for working in bursts.
Technology can help your brain stay in motion—and get your words on the page.
Celebrate Small Progress
Creative work happens in layers. Your draft doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to exist.
Reward yourself for every milestone:
Wrote 200 words? That’s a win.
Finished a chapter outline? Celebrate it.
Hit “save” instead of “delete”? Progress.
Consistency isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence.
Final Thought: There’s No One Right Way to Write
Thinking differently doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. It means you bring something original to the page that no one else can.
When you stop forcing your brain into someone else’s process, writing becomes less of a battle—and more of a joy.
Find your rhythm, use your tools, and most importantly—give yourself permission to write your way.
For a full conversation on writing with ADHD, listen to Alexa’s chat with Kate Allyson.
This blog post topic was inspired by Episode 188 of Alexa’s Publishing Chat where Alexa Bigwarfe was in conversation with Rhonda Douglas of Resilient Writers.
Why Every Writer Needs a Retreat
Let’s be honest: the dream of writing full-time is usually far more romantic than the reality of writing in the cracks of your day. Between work, family, and life’s never-ending noise, creativity can start to feel squeezed into the margins.
That’s where a writing retreat comes in.
A writing retreat isn’t just a getaway—it’s an intentional pause from your regular routine to refocus, refill your creative well, and make real progress on your writing goals. Whether it’s a weekend alone at a cabin or a week with other writers, retreats create space for focus and flow.
And here’s the best part: you don’t need a big budget or a plane ticket to make it happen.
What a Writing Retreat Can Do for You
A well-planned writing retreat can:
Help you reconnect with your creative voice
Provide long stretches of uninterrupted writing time
Offer perspective on your project or career goals
Reduce burnout and reignite motivation
Give you accountability and community (if you retreat with others)
Writing retreats can be deeply restorative—a reminder that your writing life is worth prioritizing.
The Two Main Types of Writing Retreats
1. DIY Writing Retreats
These are self-designed getaways where you control everything: location, schedule, budget, and goals. You can do them solo or with a writing buddy.
Here are some affordable options:
Staycation retreat: Block off a weekend at home, unplug from social media, and treat your writing like your only job.
Hotel or Airbnb escape: Use loyalty points or off-season discounts to book a night or two away.
Library and coffee shop tour: Spend a day hopping between inspiring spaces in your own city.
Friend swap: Trade houses or pet-sit for a friend who’s away—and use that time to write.
Pro Tip: Add accountability. Tell a friend your goal for the weekend or meet another writer for a short check-in session mid-retreat.
2. Organized Group Retreats
If you crave structure or community, consider attending a guided writing retreat or conference. These often combine workshops, feedback, and uninterrupted writing time.
Look for retreats that align with your genre and goals. For example:
A poetry retreat for creative inspiration
A memoir workshop for emotional depth and feedback
A publishing-focused retreat for authors ready to market their books
These experiences often blend mentorship, education, and connection—and can lead to lifelong writing friendships.
How to Plan Your Own Writing Retreat
Set a clear goal. Decide whether your retreat will focus on drafting, revising, or planning future projects.
Choose the right setting. Think about what kind of environment fuels you—solitude, nature, city energy, or creative company.
Make it restorative. Don’t overbook yourself. Include breaks for walks, naps, journaling, or simply thinking. Rest is part of the creative process.
Plan your meals ahead. Whether you’re home or away, prep simple meals so you can stay in flow and avoid the “what’s for dinner?” distraction.
Unplug. The purpose of a retreat is to reconnect with your inner voice—not your inbox. Set boundaries with loved ones and silence notifications.
Reflect afterward. Take a few minutes to note what worked, what didn’t, and how you can bring that focused energy into your regular routine.
How to Afford a Writing Retreat on Any Budget
Writing retreats don’t have to break the bank. Try:
Travel points for hotels or flights
Midweek bookings (cheaper than weekends)
Local scenic spots instead of faraway destinations
Shared rentals with other writers
Public library rooms for day retreats
Even if you can only get away for 12 hours, that intentional break can re-energize your creativity more than a month of forced daily writing sessions.
The Takeaway
You don’t have to wait for permission—or a luxury writing retreat in Italy—to claim focused, creative time for yourself.
Start small. Book a weekend. Go somewhere quiet. Bring your notebook, your laptop, and your favorite snacks.
Your story deserves space to breathe—and so do you.
For a full conversation on DIY writing retreats, listen to Alexa’s chat with Rhonda Douglas of Resilient Writers.
Authors Against Book Bans is a coalition of writers, illustrators, anthology editors and contributors, and other book creators who work hard to ensure the consistent availability of diverse voices on library shelves, in bookstores, in schools, and in our culture overall.
“We pledge to band together against the oppression of literature, to speak when our voices are silenced, to go where our bodies are needed, and to fight as one to ensure this freedom.” AABB members are fighting for the “children, families, educators, librarians, and communities who suffer when the freedom to read is challenged and taken away.”
The ongoing issue of book bans is a troubling one, something that most people might not even be aware of unless they are in the trenches as an author, agent, or publisher.
Your voice is needed – Join the Authors Against Book Bans Movement
This past January marked the one-year anniversary of AABB’s (Authors Against Book Bans) first nation-wide outreach. Since then they have gained over 3,500 members! I was so excited and quite frankly relieved when I learned about their mission.
Sadly, book bans are a reality, but this army of authors and publishing professionals is fighting back. According to the AABB website, they “stand united against the deeply unconstitutional movement to limit the freedom to read.”
AABB partners with movements like Freedom to Read and #ReadFreely to strengthen our collective impact. Authors Against Book Bans is working hard to ensure the consistent availability of diverse voices on library shelves, in bookstores, in schools, and in our culture overall.
I recently learned more about AABB’s ongoing efforts in a members-only town hall meeting. Currently, there are mobilization efforts underway in many states, but unfortunately not all. However, AABB uses their Discord to continue mobilizing more communities.
This is a critical time to use our voices as authors and protect creative license!
Organizations like Authors Against Book Bans are a critical need. Recent attempts to censor books in schools and libraries often target BIPOC and LGBTQ+ stories, the erasing of history, and silencing of voices that speak truthfully about essential human experiences.
As an author and a part of the Women in Publishing Summit community, I believe in the power of literature and its ability to create empathy, foster self-empowerment, impart knowledge, and enhance diversity of thought.
Join Publishing Professionals Against Book Bans: The fight against book bans needs both authors and publishing professionals working in tandem. That’s why AABB just launched a Publishing Professionals Against Book Bans group. The inaugural PPABB Town Hall held in January saw an incredible turnout from agents, publishers, editors, artists, and more. If you are a publishing professional, you can sign up to join PPABB through this form.
Once you are a member, you will be able to attend frequent meetings specific to how you can help the organization and join the Discord. The Discord has space for everyone, with dedicated BIPOC and LGBTQ+, and Neurodivergent channels. I hope you take part as a member of this important community!
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The Women in Publishing Summit is a four-day virtual event running from March 5 to 8. All sessions are recorded, and you can rewatch them as many times as you’d like through the end of the year. We also have networking, community-building events, and special bonus sessions. The best part is that you get to be a part of the WIP community all year long with free bonus post-conference webinars, monthly networking sessions, and access to sponsor discounts.
Don’t forget to grab your ticket today, so you can participate in these author workshops at the conference and revisit the recorded sessions throughout the year!
This Black History Month, we’d like to share a guest post by Renay Intisar Jihad
Word Bank: Tip to Save Time Writing
A Guest Post by Renay Intisar Jihad
Teaching students how to write well involved sharing incremental and manageable micro-steps or risk seeing them sink into a vast bin of hopelessness while staring at a blank sheet of paper clutching a sweaty pencil. I had to trick them into thinking writing was fun and easy. The writing process began with a fun and engaging activity – gathering words. Now retired, and a published author, this pre-write method is still a useful tool.
Every piece of writing inhabits a linguistic atmosphere. Knowing the word environment or content-area words associated with a subject keeps me focused on the big idea. Subject-matter triggers help me decide what to include or exclude in the final product. The quality and quantity of my word bank dictates its usefulness. An excellent word environment naturally produces parameters in which to write, edit, and revise a poem, story, or news article. For me, the word bank supports a formidable liaison between content and delivery.
GATHERING WORDS
To prepare for writing Mini Solja Stands on the Shoulders of Giants, I read, skimmed, and scanned black history books to gather words and terms from each decade dating back to 1619. Documentaries, speakers, primary source documents, and museums added to what I already knew about the subject. It was essential to include famous and noteworthy black Americans of distinction.
My list of people, places, things, dates, times, and colloquial expressions influenced the outline. Taking stock of the manuscript’s goal through creating a word bank supplied a self-assessment: What did I know, want to know, and learned? What did this subject look like, feel like, sound like, smell like, and taste like?
I compared this activity to setting the stage for a play, fertilizing a garden, eating an appetizer before dinner, or warming up before a yoga class. See it this way:
You are creating a reservoir of ideas from an ocean of suggestions related to your subject, theme, title, content-area, or focus.
THE IMPACT OF WORD GATHERING
Because Mini Solja Stands on the Shoulders of Giants was a poetry book with informational and literary elements, the word environment that I created during this pre-write process came in handy when collaborating with my editor. Every printed word dictated a promise to deliver a message of hope, remembrance, and homage to book lovers reading on multiple grade levels. Achieving suitable readability was an ambitious task.
Bottom line, were the words generated from my word bank during the pre-write process dynamic, specific, timely, useful, effective, and historically relevant enough to convey the message I would later generate during the writing process?
In this sense, the list was not static. It ebbed and flowed as new information became critical to the final product. I organized my words, knowing that the economy of words and ideas was crucial to the quality of the final product. I often swapped, threw out, re-purposed, recycled, or retired certain words depending on how my project progressed.
In short, spending time creating a word bank saved me time, supplied a world of ideas and possibilities from which to draw on, and served in helping to refine my focus.
Remember Yesterday’s Giants Cherish Today’s Giants Honor the Giant Within You. A teenage boy named Mini T. Solja learns an important lesson about his rich heritage from his grandfather. MINI SOLJA STANDS ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS is a lyrical coming-of-age conversation. This poetic snapshot highlights the stellar history of Black Americans and pays homage to our ancestral struggle and triumphs. Enjoy this timely, engaging, and enlightening book. Additional resources include a list of famous Black Americans and a directory of Black museums.
Renay Intisar Jihad was born in New Haven, Connecticut, where exposure to the arts was as natural as breathing. Serving as a literacy coach for eight, of the thirty years in teaching allowed her to support new teachers, write curriculum, and share resources. Scarves and Bandanas and The Day Josef Found His Pride were short-run publications tailored to the needs and interests of her students. Renay is the recipient of the Global Educator of the Year and a Teaching Tolerance Award. After she earned her National Board Certification, the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE) recognized her as one of twenty NBCTs at that time. A Fulbright-Hays scholarship enabled her to travel to Kenya and Tanzania. Other education-related travel opportunities to China, Egypt, Morocco, the Caribbean, and Thailand helped enhance her teaching and writing curriculum. A Michael Jordan Fundamentals grant enabled Mrs. Jihad to produce a book of children’s poems entitled The Many Faces of Poetry. Her sixth-grade students authored original poems, art, and short stories inspired by personal experiences. In the Many Faces of Love, Jihad penned a poem for each of her one-hundred and ten students to honor their unique gifts. Now she contributes to the AF-Am POV (African American Point of View) and the Muslim Journal. Learn more at https://www.renayspace.com/
Renay Intisar Jihad was born in New Haven, Connecticut, where exposure to the arts was as natural as breathing. Serving as a literacy coach for eight, of the thirty years in teaching allowed her to support new teachers, write curriculum, and share resources. Scarves and Bandanas and The Day Josef Found His Pride were short-run publications tailored to the needs and interests of her students. Renay is the recipient of the Global Educator of the Year and a Teaching Tolerance Award. After she earned her National Board Certification, the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE) recognized her as one of twenty NBCTs at that time. A Fulbright-Hays scholarship enabled her to travel to Kenya and Tanzania. Other education-related travel opportunities to China, Egypt, Morocco, the Caribbean, and Thailand helped enhance her teaching and writing curriculum. A Michael Jordan Fundamentals grant enabled Mrs. Jihad to produce a book of children’s poems entitled The Many Faces of Poetry. Her sixth-grade students authored original poems, art, and short stories inspired by personal experiences. In the Many Faces of Love, Jihad penned a poem for each of her one-hundred and ten students to honor their unique gifts. Now she contributes to the AF-Am POV (African American Point of View) and the Muslim Journal. Learn more at