In this episode of What If? For Authors, Claire completes her exploration of writer orientations by diving into the world of emotion-oriented authors. If you lead with the heart when writing, this episode is for you. Claire explores how the emotional orientation manifests in different Enneagram types (especially 2s, 3s, and 4s), the unique strengths and challenges this style brings, and how emotion-driven writing can both elevate your work and stall your process if you’re not careful. Plus, get insights on how to balance emotion with action and logic to bring your stories to life with impact and clarity.

In This Episode:

What makes someone an emotion-oriented writer

How the Enneagram heart types (2, 3, 4) each engage with emotion in the creative process

Why 3s avoid emotion—and what happens when they slow down enough to feel

How 2s' people-pleasing tendencies can derail their writing

The way 4s can get stuck in emotional complexity and how to access universality through others

What to watch out for if your emotion center is strong but action or thinking is underdeveloped

Tips for managing overwhelming emotions that block progress

How to differentiate between emotions that need to be observed vs. acted on

The importance of emotional discernment for creative sustainability

Practical Takeaway:

Emotion-oriented writers don’t need to tone down their feelings—but they do need to balance them with thoughtful structure and forward momentum. Learn to discern which emotions are fuel for your writing and which are simply data to be acknowledged and released.

Support the Show:

If you found this episode thought-provoking and helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource.

Join the Conversation:

Are you an emotion-oriented writer? What challenges or strengths have you noticed in your process? Share your experience by replying to this episode post or tagging Claire on social media.

Access the transcript here.

Happy Writing!