Hello, wonderful writer, dreamer, explorer, deep thinker
(If you’d prefer to listen, click the audio above)
This week, at Writing Inside Out HQ, I’ve been looking ahead to my Spring programme of events. This is exciting and daunting in equal measure.
My sentiment for myself in 2026 is bold courage.
When I’d rather shrink back, I’m reminded to step up, in my personal writing and in the coaching and mentoring I do through Writing Inside Out.
But I’m also feeling pretty tired, and with a road trip down to the South of England, this week’s Writing Inside Out on Substack, is a return to the Exploring Personal Story, mini-series that I wrote last summer.
Exploring Personal Story #1 “Storms Don’t Last Forever”
Exploring Personal Story #2 Top Tips for Writers
Exploring Personal Story #3 A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step
If you are new to Writing Inside Out, or if you missed the mini series the first time round - and you want encouragement to share your personal story - these are for you.
Whether your writing comes through as fiction or non-fiction, your lived experience is unique, just like you are.
We all have stories to explore, and as much as anything, we are shaped as we do so.
#1 is dedicated to Gemma Elizabeth, a writer and member of the Creative Writer’s Cabin - who very sadly is no longer with us. Gemma was a truly inspiring writer (and all round human). She had a way of drawing readers or listeners in, and I know she’d be rooting for you and your writing, just like I am.
If you have yet to write your first words, or even if you have a fully loaded manuscript, and you need encouragment to start or keep going, consider this it!
And if you check out the mini-series, do let me know if it resonates.
Happy Writing
Jo x
Writing Inside Out News
A cosy corner of Writing Inside Out on Substack to share a final comment, give thanks, & shine a light.
Thank you again if you attended one of the January Discover the Story in You workshops. If you haven’t received the follow-up e-mail (sent Feb 2nd), please do let me know 😊
If you weren’t able to make it … there are more dates in the pipeline.
Workshops and events
Explore Your Story - 25th & 26th April
Two-day event for creative, outdoorsy women. Thirlmere, Cumbria, UK.
This is my first venture in combining the wonder of nature with the magic of nurturing writers and creatives. Based in a stunning location, six miles from Keswick, Cumbria, it promises to be a fun, connected space, where stories, minds, and bodies can flourish.
To sign up for more details when they are ready, click the link.
Well, this all looks magnificent, Jo! Bravo!