The power of the draft

 Sometimes we have this idea in our minds of what the writing process is suppose to look like and one of those preconceptions is that the idea flows and we have a pretty good first draft as a result. We might even have set ourselves up for loftier expectations by thinking we should have a complete and perfect version right out of the gates.

But that defeats the purpose of a draft and it creates unnecessary pressure and blocks to create that paragraph, scene, chapter or even the whole story.

When you give yourself permission to just go from a blank sheet of paper or blank Word doc with a blinking cursor to one that has something on it, you've created room for your creativity to flow.

Because it's not about flowing perfectly - it's just about allowing the ideas to flow through your mind and down on paper.

One of my developmental editing clients said it best, "I want to get the story out - the plot mapped out - first, then I'll go through it again working on the character development, showing versus telling, and if I need to go again, I will." From my perspective, I agree. This approach takes the pressure off to "get it right the first time" and permission to allow for change to happen.

Maybe characters will bump into each other and the world they are in and as a result, you as the writer might realize what you thought would happen isn't going in that direction, but something better is evolving.

Maybe the first pass you write is a lot of telling, and just getting things out, and that is more than ok. If you're writing non-fiction, perhaps the first pass is getting your key points and messages down, but perhaps the stories you use to support them need to be refined to ensure they will relate to your target audience. This is good - in fact, it's great! It's hard to create something out of nothing, but that's exactly what you're doing when you write a story because you started from a blank sheet of paper and an idea.

When you view the first pass as you figuring things out for yourself, you are willing to take more risks, push your creativity, and even enjoy what you're creating. You'll also feel more comfortable working with an editor because you'll be receptive to their input and as a result, that will create its couple of drafts.

And even if you're not working with an editor yet, when you come back for the next round, you'll have fresh eyes and a new perspective. The space between each version - each draft - will help to strengthen your writing and create an even stronger book.

You are a gifted storyteller - your words can transport your reader to new worlds, new adventures, new ways of thinking, and even new mindset shifts for themselves and what they believe is possible. Your words are powerful for them, but also for you.

So going back to the beginning: are you embracing the first, second, or even fifth or sixth draft of your book? What are your thoughts about the power of the draft?

I'm a big believer that if the story came to you, it must come through you. If you're in the middle of the first draft, keep writing. If you're in the middle of edits, keep refining. No matter where you are, but especially if you've hit publish, keep talking about and sharing your book and message.

If you’re ready to tell yourself a new story, visit https://www.jennifermilius.com/stylist to see if this perfect for where you are now and let's talk.

Your book, your message, your body of work is worth sharing, and YOU are the right person (and the only one) who can share it.

Keep writing and keep putting yourself out there because the people who need to hear your message the most are waiting for you. They are waiting for you to step up to your next level of genius, so they can have the impact they're meant to because YOU inspired them.

Want to go deeper? 

I believe if the story came to you, it must come through you to share. You've already done the brave work of writing and publishing. Now it's time to show up powerfully as the thought leader you are, so your message reaches the people who need it most. Because when visibility opportunities arrive — a book signing, a podcast invitation, a speaking engagement — it's not only about the writing anymore. It's about you, fully showing up, as the person behind the work and message. 

Author Stylist 

Author Stylist Guide: Own Your Greatness, Get Visible, and Share Your Message is for that moment. Not how to get more opportunities — how to make the most of the ones that come to you, so you show up with confidence, shine in the room, and let your book and message reach the people who actually need them. You already have the courage and the gifts that got you here. This book helps you use them. https://www.jennifermilius.com/books 

Want to go beyond the book and let your message reach the people who need it most without downplaying your authority or hiding your power? The Author Stylist Services and Resources will help you show up authentically as the expert you are, and when you do there's a joy and confidence that radiates. That's what I help you tap into - so your voice, your message, and your work can make the impact they're meant to make. Author Stylist Services and Resources: https://www.jennifermilius.com/stylist