The blank page can be terrifying, paralysing even. How do you overcome the fear of starting something new?

In Episode 6 Ali and Penny - both at the start of new projects - talk about the different tools they use to make a strong start on something new. They examine artistic considerations as well as more practical techniques including: goal setting, spreadsheets, progress checkers, and the all important writing community.

They also talk about ways of reframing the idea of 'dreams'. Is it a dream to write a book, or an ambition?

Links mentioned

Pacemaker - online wordcount app

Clare Seal's (My Frugal Year) progress grid

Story Genius - Lisa Cron

Heavy Light - Horatio Clare

Mrs Death Misses Death - Salena Godden

Women's Prize for fiction 2021 long list