Though there's always a place for big dream, sometimes they're more stifling than inspiring. Taking a page from Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors, today we'll visualize our more mediocre dreams. Not to give up hope, but the make the next steps feel easier.

Warning: There is musical theater singing in this episode.

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In today's exercise, your phone will be an inspiration, not a distraction. Shocking, I know.

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Most of the time, first drafts are the worst. Today, Amber talks about a different way to look at rough drafts to make the writing and editing steps a little less painful.

There's still a contest going on! Leave a 5-star review by August 15th and you'll be entered to win a $100 gift card!

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In today's reframe, instead of focusing on all the wonderful, inspirational writers of the world, you'll take a moment to think about all the people who...you're so much better than.

This won't make you a jerk! You won't revel in negativity forever. But taking a few minutes to remember your talent can do a world of good.

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Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram!

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This 5-Minute Writing Exercise is a great way to brainstorm, start a new story, or just get some thoughts out of your head and onto the page. Plus, it's only 5 minutes. You really can spare 5 minutes to write some cool stuff.

In today's exercise, you'll imagine you're writing the words of your best friend. This is especially useful if "no one will like this idea" or "who cares about what you think" pop up when you try to write. Imagining you're writing down a friend's idea can be a way to circumnavigate the brain's shittiness.

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Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram!

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Not sure how to start freelance writing? Amber discusses her complete career change at age 30, what she did to get started, and how Snooki absolutely lead to her byline in the New York Times.

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Take a moment to relax, breathe, and quell your writing fears with the wisdom of Smash Mouth.

No, really. A lesson from Smash Mouth will make you feel better about your ideas and writing possibilities.

The Wednesday Writing Reframes are a way to settle your nerves, reframe critical thoughts, and take the work of writing a little less serious.

Warning: Contains MIDI file version of All Star. I'm sorry and/or you're welcome.

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Welcome to the first 5-Minute Writing Exercise.

It's a great way to brainstorm ideas, start a new piece, or write whatever comes to mind based on the prompt. Fiction, non-fiction, whatever you want - I don't own you! Whatever you do, you'll be surprised how much you can get done in 5 minutes.

This week, you get 5 minutes to write like an A-hole. Amber explains why that's not weird and how it can boost your writing confidence.

Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast?

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Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram!

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

It's a sneak preview of Don't Wait to Write.

If you want to know what this is, why it's happening, and why in hell I wanted to post 3 times a week, give this a listen!

Plus, there's a contest. What kind of contest? Well, why don't you listen for 2 minutes to find out!

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