Here’s the truth: writing is no longer just about writing.
In today’s publishing landscape, writers are expected to master story structure and social media, balance prose with platform, and juggle the solitary work of creation with the very public work of connection.
It can be overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to figure it all out alone.
The good news is that you don’t have to do it all alone.
And more importantly, you don’t have to do it all at once.
In my experience working with writers for the last decade as a writing coach, the authors who thrive (not just for one book, but over the long haul) focus on three foundational pillars:
- Writer’s Craft
- Community
- Career
Let’s break these pillars down and explore why building the first two might be the smartest move you can make this summer.
1. Writer’s Craft: The Core of It All
At the heart of every successful writing life is the work itself: your voice, vision and ability to put scenes, characters, and emotions on the page in a way that captivates readers.
Craft is not something you master and move on from. It’s a lifelong learning journey.
And the deeper you go into your craft, the more joy, clarity, and momentum you unlock in your writing practice.
You learn to trust your instincts, solve story problems faster, and write with purpose, not just passion.
2. Community: Your Secret Writing Weapon
Writing might happen in solitude, but growth happens in community.
There’s a reason writers light up at retreats and in group coaching programs: they’re finally surrounded by people who get it.
Other writers know the thrill of a new idea, the terror of a blank page, and the weird joy of rearranging one sentence for an hour until you finally get it right.
3. Career: The Piece You Can Grow Into
Every writer eventually has to think about their career.
Whether that means querying agents, self-publishing, building a platform, or just figuring out what’s next, the “what do I do with this book?” question eventually arrives.
The best way to learn is from people who have already been there, whether that means other veteran writers, coaches, or marketing experts who can help guide your brand-building and book promotions.
But, of course, the book itself MUST come first.
Your Next Chapter Starts Here
I often return to these three foundational pillars for writing success when designing my programs and events.
And that includes the upcoming Ottawa Writers’ Retreat.
Retreat Pillar #1: Writer’s Craft
If you’ve been craving uninterrupted time to focus just on the writing, the Ottawa Writers’ Retreat was designed with you in mind.
You’ll work daily on your manuscript or project.
You’ll receive coaching and feedback designed to help you write better, faster, and more confidently.
You’ll explore genre-specific strategies, advanced storytelling tools, and methods for getting unblocked.
Most importantly, you’ll write. A lot.
If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of distraction, burnout, or just too many competing priorities, this writing retreat is the creative reset you need.
Retreat Pillar #2: Community
At a small, focused retreat like the Ottawa Writers’ Retreat, you’ll meet fellow writers who share your goals and your challenges.
You’ll trade ideas, stories, encouragement, and maybe even manuscript pages.
You’ll feel seen and supported in ways the outside world rarely offers.
And for the introverts? The retreat balances quiet, creative time with meaningful, optional connection. You decide when and how to engage.
The relationships you build at a retreat like this often last far beyond the retreat itself and become one of the most valuable assets in your writing life.
Retreat Pillar #3: Career
At the Ottawa Writers’ Retreat, our focus is not on marketing strategies, ad tech, or launch plans.
There are other programs (including some of mine) that go deep into those areas.
Instead, we’ll help lay the groundwork for your future career by:
· Helping you get closer to finishing a strong manuscript
· Building your creative confidence so you can pursue your publishing goals with less fear and more clarity
· Creating space to reflect on your personal definition of success, because not every writer’s path looks the same
In other words, I’m not going to throw you into a whirlwind of business training when what you need right now is to WRITE.
But I will help you move toward a sustainable writing life that supports your long-term goals, whatever they may be.
Retreat Details:
When: July 23–27, 2025
Where: Just outside Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Who: Intimate group of just 10 writers
Includes: 4 nights and 5 days of accommodations, gourmet meals, cozy spaces, daily writing sessions, coaching, feedback, and community
You’ll leave with more words on the page, more clarity in your process, and more belief in your ability to build the writing life you truly want.
👉 Click here to learn more and book a free call.
Because a thriving writing life isn’t about doing everything at once.
It’s about focusing on the right things, at the right time, with the right people by your side.
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Kevin T. Johns is one of Canada’s top writing coaches. Join him and a small group of writers this July at The Ottawa Writers’ Retreat for five days of deep writing time, expert guidance, and creative camaraderie.
