How to Develop a Strong Writing Practice

I had the advantage of knowing Cyndi and Saphia [The Big Soul team] prior, so I knew they would be able to hold the group well. A pleasant surprise was that in spite of, or because o,f the diversity of experiences and areas of writing being explored, we shortly became an intimate group committed to supporting each other in whatever ways revealed themselves. [My biggest takeaway from the course was,] Just write. Do it for yourself. There are likely other yous out there that would benefit from you sharing if you choose to.

Before the Big Soul cohort, I had scraps of ideas cast across five ragged notebooks and an ambition to “write my first book.” During Big Soul, I was challenged and supported to do the inner and outer work needed to connect the dots, being generously and lovingly held by the extraordinary group of other writers and the wisdom and inspiration of the Big Soul team. After the six-month cohort, I actually have a short manuscript—and the courage to see this project through.

Being in community with people that share the same drive to tell their stories was inspirational and affirming. From the structure, to the carefully selected participants, to the trust-building we experienced together—everything was curated with just the right amount of care and accountability.  Participating in this cohort has given me the confidence to, first call myself a writer, and then move forward with my project knowing that I have a voice and a perspective worth sharing. I was sad for the program to end and would recommend it to anyone interested in completing a writing project but doesn't know where to start. I look forward to staying in touch with Saphia and Cyndi as well as my fellow cohort members for years to come.