You wouldn’t expect a world-class athlete to train without a coach.
Michael Jordan had one. So did Serena Williams. So did Sidney Crosby.
But for some reason, when it comes to writing, a nuanced and demanding art form, many writers feel like they’re supposed to go it alone.
Spoiler alert: you don’t have to.
In fact, you shouldn’t.
If you’re serious about going pro with your writing, mentorship and coaching is one of the fastest, most powerful ways to accelerate your progress.
The Lone Wolf Lie
Many writers buy into the myth that “real” artists suffer in solitude.
They believe their novel should emerge from the depths of their tortured soul, fully formed, with zero outside help.
But that’s not how professional writers work.
In fact, that’s how people burn out, get stuck, and shelve promising manuscripts for years.
Truth is, every writer needs a second set of eyes (and a third, and a fourth…).
We need feedback. We need guidance.
We need someone to remind us, “You’re not crazy. This is hard. But you’re doing great.”
The Science Behind Support
Research backs this up. Studies show that mentorship:
· Accelerates skill acquisition
· Boosts self-efficacy and confidence
· Improves creative output
· Shortens the learning curve for complex skills
That last one is key.
Writing a novel isn’t just about “having a story.” It’s about learning how to handle structure, pacing, character development, world-building, voice, style, and emotional resonance.
Given the complexity involved in drafting a novel, why wouldn’t you want a guide?
Confidence: The Hidden Gift of Mentorship
Here is something I’ve learned over the years: writers often think they’re lacking talent when what they’re really missing is confidence.
And confidence is one of the biggest things a coach can give you.
When someone with real experience says, “This works,” or “You’re on the right track,” it quiets the doubt monster that just loves to live in your head rent-free.
Working with a coach won’t just help you with progress on the page, but also with belief in your voice and the confidence to keep going.
Don’t Wait Until You’re “Ready”
Many writers delay seeking coaching because they don’t think they’re “far enough along.”
But here’s the kicker: that’s exactly when you need it most.
Mentorship doesn’t just polish your final draft. It helps you get there in the first place.
It helps you avoid rookie mistakes, recognize dead ends, and build good habits before the bad ones harden into routine.
(BTW – If you would like to discuss whether I’m the right coach to help you achieve your writing goals, book a free consultation call with me here.)
Writing Retreats Make Mentorship Personal
At the Ottawa Writers’ Retreat this July, mentorship isn’t some abstract idea. It’s built into the experience.
You’ll get direct access to expert coaching from yours truly: a writing coach with over a decade of experience helping commercial fiction authors craft page-turning stories.
FYI – mentorship doesn’t mean handing you a quick fix formula. Rather, it means helping you find your way and your creative voice.
And unlike some retreats where you’re just another face in the crowd, our group is intentionally small.
Only 10 writers.
That means you get actual face time with me, not generic lectures from a stage.
I’ll be able to provide you with personalized feedback and coaching to help you break through whatever barrier you’re currently facing.
Join Me This July for a Creative Reset (and a Giant Leap Forward)
If you’re tired of spinning your wheels, unsure if your work is “good enough,” or overwhelmed by how to move forward, this retreat is your invitation to stop guessing and start growing.
📅 July 23–27, 2025
📍 Peaceful retreat location just outside Ottawa, ON
👥 Only 10 writers
✍️ Focused writing time, personalized coaching, and small-group support
🍷 Gourmet meals, fireside chats, and a chance to fall back in love with your writing life
Sound good?
👉 Click here to book a call with me to discuss your goals and whether the retreat is right for you.
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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.
