A writing mentor can be a game-changer in a writer’s journey, offering guidance, insight, and encouragement that fuels growth and confidence. Writing mentors provide a blend of expert advice and personalized feedback, helping writers develop skills that might otherwise take years to refine. For both emerging and experienced writers, a mentor can illuminate a clear path forward, offering direction through challenges and empowering writers to reach their full potential.

Last night, I met with one of my mentees, a songwriter in Nashville. Before working with me one-to-one as his writing mentor, he gained foundational skills in my creative nonfiction writing course, The Art of Narrative Nonfiction.  It was our fourth one-hour meeting yesterday and his progress was jaw-dropping. For context, he felt despondent in the prior session. I had asked him to brainstorm all of his ideas and the result was 18 frustrating pages that he did not recognise at the time would lead to his best writing thus far in his project.  I shared with him a proposal I had written and it snapped his ideas together.  I knew he was making progress, but he could not recognise it until last night. I helped by creating assignments to explore and corral his vision. I lifted his spirits when he fell into a tough moment of self-doubt.

And he worked through it. There were ups and there were downs. Writing mentors can be a very positive influence at a time when the writing process can seem daunting.

This is an example of one of the primary ways writing mentors help writers succeed: by offering authentic and lived perspective alongside honest, constructive feedback. This guidance is tailored to the writer’s goals, strengths, and areas for improvement, giving them concrete tools to enhance their work. A mentor also provides accountability, helping writers stay on track and encouraging them to push through creative blocks and setbacks. Beyond technical skills, a mentor fosters a writer’s confidence, validating their voice and unique perspective, which are essential for crafting impactful stories.

Mentors bring industry knowledge and real-world experience that are invaluable in navigating the complexities of writing and publishing. They share strategies for storytelling, editing, and often provide insider insights on the submission and publication process. This support helps writers develop not only their craft but also a sustainable, long-term approach to their career.

Ways Writing Mentors Help People Succeed:

• Personalized Feedback: Writing mentors offer tailored advice, identifying strengths and areas to improve, ensuring steady progress in each writer’s unique journey.
• Skill Development: They guide writers through various techniques, from structuring narratives to refining language, elevating the quality of work.
• Confidence Building: Mentors validate the writer’s voice and ideas, empowering them to express themselves with conviction.
• Accountability and Discipline: With a mentor’s support, writers stay focused and committed, developing consistent writing habits.
• Industry Insight: Mentors share knowledge about the writing and publishing world, helping writers understand the process and prepare for success.

If you would like to gain the clarity, skills, and motivation to succeed in a competitive field, feel free to explore ways to work with me here as your creative nonfiction writing mentor.

Lastly, check out two books published (or soon-to-be published) by mentees of mine:

• This Contested Land by McKenzie Long
• The Hear the Trees Speak by Olivia Sprinkle (out in spring 2025)