Welcome back! In Part One of this series, we met Elmore—our fictional-yet-oh-so-familiar aspiring novelist—and explored the many layers of the self-publishing world. From choosing between Amazon exclusivity or wide distribution to managing costs and creative control, we saw how self-publishing can be both empowering and overwhelming.

But what if self-publishing isn’t quite the right fit for you—or not the only fit?

That’s where Part Two comes in.

Today, we’ll walk with Elmore (and with you) through the other three primary publishing paths:

* Traditional Publishing – The long game with potential prestige.

* Hybrid Publishing – A professional, collaborative approach (at a cost).

* The Blended Path – A flexible strategy for the career-minded writer.

Just like last time, we’ll look at the pros, cons, costs, and best-suited-for profiles for each. And we’ll let Elmore ask the questions you might be thinking, so this stays grounded, real, and actionable.

Let’s get back to it.

2. Traditional Publishing

“Let the pros take the wheel.”

When I signed with my first NYC literary agent, I was thrilled. He pitched my sci-fi thriller to several publishers including the Big Five. The feedback was strong. Some editors loved the story. But… there were no offers.That two-and-a-half-year journey left me both wiser and a bit disillusioned.

Pros:

* Professional editing, design, and distribution—at no (direct) cost to you.

* Built-in credibility, media exposure, and bookstore placement.

* May offer an advance (anywhere from $1,000–$10,000+).

* Greater access to awards and literary recognition.

Cons:

* Very competitive to break in. Often requires an agent.

* Longer timelines (2–3 years is not uncommon).

* Limited creative control over cover, title, and marketing (and yes, you’ll still be expected to do a lot of the marketing.)

* Royalties are lower—8–15% of print sales on average.

Best Suited For:

* Authors who want broad distribution and prestige.

* Patient writers open to collaboration and compromise.

* Those willing to build a platform or pitch strategically.

Elmore’s question to his coach:“So even if a publisher says they love my story… they might still pass?”Coach: “Yes. But that doesn’t mean your book isn’t worthy—it just means their list is full, or the market’s not ready. That’s the biz.”Elmore: “Noted. I’ll bring snacks for the waiting room.”

3. Hybrid Publishing

“A professional team—with me in the driver’s seat.”

When I published Life On Purpose, I worked with Elite Books, one of the early reputable hybrid publishers. I appreciated having a team, while still having final say on the title, cover, and direction. That collaboration gave me both polish and peace of mind.

Pros:

* High-quality editing, design, and production.

* Faster than traditional publishing.

* Some support with distribution and marketing.

* Retain more rights and input than traditional publishing.

Cons:

* Costs can range from $3,000–$15,000+ depending on services.

* Quality and transparency vary—vet publishers carefully.

* Marketing promises can be… aspirational.

Best Suited For:

* Professionals or coaches using a book to support a broader mission.

* Writers who want to collaborate with a publishing team.

* Authors who want a beautiful book but not full-on DIY.

Elmore:“Wait—what’s the difference between hybrid and vanity press again?”Coach: “Hybrid publishers choose projects based on quality. Vanity presses take anyone with a credit card. The difference is respect.”

4. The Blended Path

“Why not all of the above?”

If there’s one truth I’ve learned, it’s this: there’s no one-size-fits-all publishing path.Over the years, I’ve jumped from one route to another depending on the book, my goals, and the season of life I was in.

That’s what Elmore’s starting to see, too.

Coach (gently): “You don’t have to marry your publishing path. Think of it more like dating.”Elmore (smiling): “So I can flirt with Kickstarter while querying agents?”Coach: “Exactly.”

What the Blended Path Might Look Like:

* Self-publish a novella while querying your full-length novel.

* Publish nonfiction traditionally and fiction independently.

* Use crowdfunding to launch your book, then license rights later.

* Start with hybrid, then pitch the next book to agents.

Pros:

* Ultimate flexibility and strategy.

* Adaptable to your personal evolution as a writer.

* Empowers you to learn, test, and refine as you grow.

Cons:

* Requires more planning and willingness to shift gears.

* Learning curve is steeper at first.

* May lack a “clean” publishing identity at first glance.

Best Suited For:

* Writers building a long-term career or brand.

* Multi-passionate creators who want to experiment and learn.

* Anyone not afraid to color outside the lines and blaze their own path.

Funding Your Book Dream

(Because aligned action still requires actual dollars)

Every path has costs—either in time, money, or both.

Here are a few ways Elmore (and you) might fund your publishing dream:

1. Self-Funding

Save monthly, sell a few old things, or set aside “book budget” money over time.

2. Friends & Family

A quiet “I believe in you” check or informal loan from someone who believes in your work.

3. Crowdfunding

Use Kickstarter or Indiegogo to raise funds—and build buzz. (We’ll go deep on this in a future article.)

4. Grants & Fellowships

Look into opportunities from writing organizations, arts councils, and nonprofits. Many are designed to support emerging voices.

5. Creative Collaboration

Pool resources with other writers for editing, design, or marketing.

Journal Your Way to Clarity

Elmore, being the thoughtful creative that he is, decided to journal through the decision before committing to anything.

“I realized I wasn’t just choosing a path,” he said to me, “I was choosing a relationship to my work. That’s bigger than one book.”

You might feel the same. So here are 10 questions to help guide you.

10 Clarifying Questions for Choosing Your Publishing Path

* What’s your ultimate purpose for this book? Is it to be your only book or the first of many?

* How important is creative control to you?

* What timeline feels right for your life and energy?

* What financial investment are you prepared—or able—to make?

* Do you want to learn publishing, or hand it off?

* How much do you enjoy marketing or public engagement? Are you open to growing into these?

* What other life commitments might influence your choice? Don’t disregard the rest of your life.

* Do you want this book to open other doors (speaking, coaching, etc.)?

* Who do you want to collaborate with, if anyone?

* What does your intuition whisper when you imagine each path?

Finding Your Path—Not Just Elmore’s

Elmore’s been doing a lot of thinking (and journaling) since we started this journey.He’s realizing that publishing isn’t a one-time decision—it’s a relationship with his work.And just like any good relationship, it needs to align with his values, goals, and creative rhythm.

“I don’t have to commit to just one path forever,” he said during a recent coaching session.“I just need to pick the next right step—and stay open to what comes next.”That’s wisdom worth borrowing.

Your Write On Purpose Assignment: Journal Your Way to Clarity

Now that you’ve explored all four publishing paths and have Elmore’s story in mind, it’s time to turn inward.

Your assignment is simple—but potentially powerful:

Choose a quiet time and space to write through the 10 Clarifying Questions. You don’t need to rush or answer them all in one sitting. Let each one breathe. You may find that a particular question unlocks insight you didn’t know you were waiting for.

Pay attention to what lights you up—and what shuts you down. Notice how your body responds. That’s part of the wisdom you’re bringing to the table.

After journaling, ask yourself:

* Which publishing path seems to best support this book’s message and purpose?

* Which path feels like the best fit for you—as a writer, and as a human being?

* Where do you still feel unsure—and what support would help clarify things?

Elmore realized this was more than choosing a publishing strategy—it was choosing how to be in relationship with his creative work. It’s the same for you.

And if you find yourself circling questions without clear answers, know this:

You’re invited to schedule a free, no-pressure Creative Clarity session with me.We’ll talk through your reflections, clarify your next steps, and explore which publishing path—or combination of paths—feels most aligned with your book and your life.

Because your story matters. And the way you bring it into the world matters too.

Let’s do it on purpose, for as I suggested to Elmore: “A publishing path is part of your Purpose Project as an author, so choose it from love, not fear. From vision, not obligation.”

Let’s start a conversation through the chat feature that will support the process of making such an important decision.

PS – A Quick Update Some of you tried to access the Eco-Guardian Self-Test from last week’s article and discovered the link didn’t work—my apologies for the mix-up. The good news is that in the meantime the project has grown into something even better: the Eco-Guardian Compass (‘cause no one really like taking tests, right?)

Over the next 10 days I’ll be releasing three different Compasses—one for ages 10–14, one for ages 15–18, and one for adults/elders. (For full transparency, I took the adult/elder version myself this morning and scored 122 out of 200. Clearly, even the creator still has plenty of room to grow as an Eco-Guardian-in-Training! )

The Compass will be released through the Eco-Guardian Secret Library next week (on a pay-what-you-will basis which includes for free if you choose). When it’s ready, you’ll not only be able to engage with the Compass but also explore a growing library of eco-friendly tools and resources.

Why it’s worth the wait:

* It takes just 5 minutes to complete each Compass.

* It’s designed for kids, teens, and adults—each version tailored to their stage of life.

* It helps you (and your family) discover your inner Eco-Guardian—the natural strengths you already carry for caring for the Earth.

* Parents: it’s a simple, fun way to start meaningful conversations with your kids and teens about their role in Earth’s future.

Here’s a sneak peek of the Compass cover:

Stay tuned — I’ll send you the direct link as soon as it’s live. I can’t wait to share this with you.

Brad (Write On Purpose Coach & Eco-Guardian-In-Training)

Know of other aspiring or newbie authors? Share this article with them. Collaboration is key no matter which publishing path you choose.

Unleashed - W. Bradford Swift is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Meet Elmore…and His Coach — Me

Elmore is writing his first historical novel. It’s been a long time coming—years of starts and stops, doubting and dreaming—but now he’s actually doing it, thanks in part to the support of his Write On Purpose coach, yours truly.

Elmore is a fictional character, a composite of the many aspiring authors I’ve worked with through the years. But he’s also real—in the way that every aspiring author often faces similar challenges. Maybe he’s even a little bit like you.

And me? I’m the writer who’s walked this winding road of publishing as well.Over my 35+ years as a writer and author, I’ve published 37 books and have explored nearly every path available:

* I’ve worked with a New York literary agent who shopped my debut techno-thriller to big-name publishers.

* I’ve self-published the majority of my books, riding the wave of Amazon and the Kindle revolution.

* I’ve collaborated with a hybrid publisher, releasing Life On Purpose: Six Passages to an Inspired Life through Elite Books when the hybrid model was just emerging.

* And now, with my latest novel, One Cause, I’m back in the thick of it—seeking a traditional publishing deal, while also preparing for the possibility of self-publishing coupled with crowdfunding via Kickstarter.

So when Elmore asks:

“How do I know which publishing path is right for me?”—I get it. So, let’s take an in-depth look.

SECTION ONE: Your Four Main Publishing Paths

(As walked by me, pondered by Elmore, and by thousands of authors)

Here are the 4 main pathways to publishing:

1. Self-Publishing

2. Traditional Publishing

3. Hybrid Publishing

4. The Blended Path

Today, we’ll look at #1 - Self-Publishing. In a future article, we’ll delve into the others.

1. Self-Publishing

“I’m the publisher—and I like it that way.”

I still remember the spark of excitement I felt when self-publishing became a legitimate option. No more gatekeepers. No more waiting. Just me, my words, and my willingness to learn. It was empowering—and sometimes overwhelming.

Over the years, I’ve self-published dozens of books—fiction and nonfiction—and I’ve learned that self-publishing isn’t just one path. It’s a network of trails with choices at every fork. One of the first choices you’ll make is whether to go exclusive with Amazon or to go wide.

This distinction is important enough that we’ll explore it fully in a future article—but here’s a brief overview to get you started.

Two Self-Publishing Paths

1. Amazon Exclusive (KDP Select / Kindle Unlimited)

* You enroll your ebook in Amazon’s Kindle Select program.

* In exchange, your book must be exclusive to Amazon (ebook only—for 90-day renewable periods).

* In exchange, you gain access to:

* Kindle Unlimited page-read income

* Free promotion days and their count-down special

* Enhanced visibility in Amazon's algorithm (Well, maybe).

2. Going Wide

* You publish your book on Amazon AND other platforms like Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, and library systems via aggregators like Draft2Digital or IngramSpark.

* More global reach and long-term independence.

* No Kindle Unlimited page-read income—but you retain full control over distribution.

Elmore’s Question:“So if I go exclusive with Amazon, I can earn money from people who borrow the book and read it?”Coach Brad:“Exactly. But you can’t list the ebook on Apple, Barnes & Noble or anywhere during that time. It’s a trade-off.”Elmore:“Sounds like I’ll need to map that one out more… later.”

Pros:

* Complete creative control (cover, title, pricing, publishing timeline).

* Higher royalties: up to 70% for ebooks on Amazon.

* Fast turnaround—months, not years.

* Access to Kindle Unlimited income if you choose Amazon exclusivity.

* Full control over future editions, updates, and republishing.

Cons:

* You either pay for editing, design, formatting, and marketing, do these yourself, or some combination.

* All business decisions fall on your shoulders. (Or with the assistance of your writing coach.)

* Visibility and credibility can be harder to build from scratch.

* Choosing between exclusive or wide can feel confusing at first (don’t worry, more on this coming soon).

Typical Cost:

$2,000–$8,000 (varies by quality, ambition, and how much you are willing to do yourself)

* Editing: $1,000–$2,500

* Design/Layout: $250–$1,000

* Marketing & Website: Budget-based

Best Suited For:

* Independent or entrepreneurial authors who enjoy (or are open to learning) the publishing process.

* Writers with a strong sense of creative vision and voice.

* Storytellers who want to move forward now, not in 18 months.

* Authors who may want to experiment or build a long-term author career on their own terms.

This path is especially good for authors who like to learn by doing, and who see publishing as a creative and professional journey—not just a one-time event.

Elmore’s Reaction:“So I’d have to hire my own editor and cover designer? But I get to pick my title and decide what the cover will look like? Hmm… I like that kind of freedom.”(Pause)“But I’ll need a guide for the Amazon exclusive vs. wide thing.”Coach:“We’ll walk through that together. And hey—there’s a future article coming all about it.”

As you can see, self-publishing offers an incredible amount of freedom—but with that freedom comes responsibility, learning curves, and choices that may feel daunting at first. That’s why having a coach, community, or guide can make all the difference.

In Part Two, we’ll explore the other three publishing paths—Traditional, Hybrid, and the increasingly popular Blended Approach—all of which offer different kinds of support, structure, and potential. Elmore still has a lot of questions (don’t we all?), and each path has its own set of trade-offs. The goal isn’t to find the right way, but your way. The one that aligns with your values, goals, and unique vision for your book.

Your Write On Purpose Assignment:

Between now and Part Two, take a few moments to journal about the following:

* What excites you most about the self-publishing path?

* What worries you?

* What kind of support would help you feel more confident moving forward?

And if you’d like to talk it through with someone who’s been where you are, I’d be honored to support you. You’re invited to schedule a free, no-obligation Creative Clarity session with me. We’ll explore where you are in your writing journey, what’s next, and what publishing path might best support the book you’re here to write.

Because just like Elmore, you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

Stay tuned for Part Two—coming soon!

Brad, Your Write On Purpose Coach

The Courage to Align Creativity and Commerce: Why Your Inner Hero Holds the Key

Imagine waking up each day, feeling the pulse of purpose and the electric thrill of possibility. You know, deep down, that your creative work has the potential to change the world. But alongside that excitement, you wrestle with the pressure to monetize your art. Will focusing on financial success compromise your authenticity? What if you could embrace both with a sense of harmony and courage?

This question sits at the heart of the creative journey. Whether you’re a painter, writer, or musician, the struggle between art and commerce can feel like a tug of war between your inner hero and villain—terms drawn from my Life On Purpose Process, which has been guiding creatives since 1996. Your Inner Hero seeks bold self-expression and impact, while your Inner Villain whispers doubts, stoking fears of "selling out" or compromising your artistic integrity.

Yet, as Todd Henry reminds us in Die Empty, the most important question is: "Will the work I did today really matter?" At the intersection of creativity and commerce lies your answer—and it's more accessible than you think.

Abundant Resources Optimally Deployed: Unlocking Hidden Potential

One powerful distinction I’ve applied in my own life and shared with many of my coaching clients is the idea of abundant resources optimally deployed. (Thank you Landmark Worldwide.) It’s a simple yet transformative concept that encourages you to look at the resources you already have—whether they’re financial, physical, or internal—and use them in the most impactful way possible.

For example, my wife and I once realized that our loft area was an underutilized resource. After exploring how to best deploy it, we transformed it into both an income stream through AirBnB and a space for our Write On Purpose clients during Writer’s Breakthrough Intensives.

Embracing the Heroic Purpose: Creativity Without Compromise

Too many aspiring authors shy away from monetizing their creativity because they believe profit and passion can't coexist. This mindset is rooted in Inherited Purpose, a belief system governed by fear and scarcity. The truth is, your True Purpose can—and should—guide you to create work that not only inspires but also sustains you financially.

As Rollo May says in The Courage to Create: "Courage is not the absence of despair; it is the capacity to move ahead in spite of despair"​. Moving through doubt is an act of courage, one that leads to deeper artistic clarity and, ultimately, the commercial success you deserve.

Example for Aspiring Authors: Redefining Success

For an author, the goal isn’t necessarily to hit bestseller lists on day one. Success could mean reaching a niche audience deeply moved by your words, or simply completing the book that has lived within you for years. Redefine your success, and allow your True Purpose to guide how you share your art with the world.

A Potential Live Q&A: Let’s Go Deeper Together

I’ve been thinking about offering a live Q&A session where we can go even deeper into the concepts shared in this article. It would be an opportunity for you to ask questions about balancing creativity and commerce, share your personal challenges, and receive real-time feedback.

However, before I commit, I’d love to gauge interest. If at least 6 people express interest in attending, I’ll make this happen for up to 12 participants to keep it intimate and interactive.

If this sounds like something you’d be excited about, drop a comment below to let me know, and we’ll see if there’s enough momentum to move forward!

If you know other authors (aspiring or otherwise) who would like to join us, share this article with them as well.

Strategies for Authors: Aligning Creativity and Commerce

Diversify Your Creative Income Streams

Rather than fearing that monetization dilutes your creativity, consider expanding your revenue sources. This could include offering workshops, courses, or mentoring sessions alongside your writing. As Cal Newport discusses in Deep Work, focusing on such high-impact tasks allows you to excel​.

For instance, authors can develop companion products like journals, podcasts, or exclusive content for loyal fans. As Michael Gelb highlights in How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci, leveraging curiosity and multi-disciplinary creativity leads to innovation​.

Marketing as Sharing

What if marketing wasn’t about "selling," but sharing your story with those who need it most? When you reframe marketing as an act of service, it transforms the entire process. You’re not selling a product. Instead, you’re inviting others into your creative journey.

Todd Henry’s advice in Die Empty resonates here: each day is an opportunity to build a legacy of work that matters​. By showing up authentically and sharing your why, you ensure your marketing aligns with your artistic mission. (And I for one believe Substack is a fantastic venue for building such a body of work. Thank you Substack.)

Unlock the Power of Community: Share Your Creative Journey

One of the most valuable assets any creator can have is a community of like-minded individuals who are on similar journeys. The Creative Collaboration Circle (CCC) is designed to be more than just a place to consume ideas—it’s a space where you can share your creative wins, struggles, and insights with others who understand the unique challenges of balancing art and commerce.

Here’s how you can contribute to our collective growth:

* Share Your Creative Projects: What are you working on? Whether it’s a book, a painting, or a new podcast, your journey can inspire others.

* Discuss Your Income Streams: Have you found innovative ways to fund your creative work? Share your strategies with the community to help others think outside the box.

* Reflect on Insights from this Article: How has balancing creativity and commerce impacted your life? Your insights could lead to a powerful dialogue that benefits all members.

By sharing both your personal insights and creative projects, you help grow the CCC into a vibrant, supportive network where ideas flow freely and collaboration thrives.

This is where I put my Write On Coaching cap on and challenge you to click the Comment Button below and share one, two, or all three of the above points. Or if you hear your Inner Villain screaming loudly trying to keep you safe by not leaving a comment, share that!

A Call to Bold Action

If you’ve gained value from this article, now is the perfect time to take bold action. Share this piece with other creatives, invite them to explore their own creative potential, and let’s grow the CCC together.

Your voice matters, and by contributing your insights and work, you empower others to step more fully into their purpose. When we collaborate, everyone wins.

How the Q&A Could Work:

* Minimum of 6 participants to confirm—drop a comment if you're interested.

* Maximum of 12 participants to ensure everyone gets personalized attention.

* Once we hit the threshold, I'll send details for the exclusive session, where we can discuss your creative projects and income strategies!

So, let me hear from you! Another opportunity to ignore that Inner Villain voice and express yourself even if that means letting me know you’re not interested.

This is Brad, your Write On Purpose Coach waiting with baited breath to hear from my fellow authors and artists.

P.S. Here are three images I’m considering using for my next YA eco-fiction book, Awakening: Eco-Guardians Book One. Help me decide which one I should use. Which one do you prefer, from left to right, 1, 2 (middle), or 3 to the far right? Or 4, none of them?

Hello, beautiful creators.

Let’s pause for a moment and talk about something that sits quietly—sometimes awkwardly—at the crossroads of art, ambition, and authenticity: money.

In our culture, success is often measured in financial terms. “How much are you making?” “Did you monetize that?” “What’s your ROI?” These are the questions we’re taught to ask and answer. And while there’s nothing inherently wrong with money—it can be a helpful metric—it’s also a dangerously seductive one.

When we make money our ultimate goal, we can lose the thread of why we create in the first place.

So, today I invite you into a deeper conversation—one that can shift how you relate to your work, your goals, and your sense of fulfillment.

What’s your relationship with money and meaning? I’d love to hear your first reaction—share below.

Why Do You Really Create?

Take a breath. Think back to the moment you first felt called to create—whether to write, paint, perform, build, teach, or serve.

Was your first impulse to earn a paycheck? Or was it something else—something more luminous?

For many of us, our deepest creative urges are born not from scarcity or ambition, but from love. Love of expression. Love of beauty. Love of truth. Love of making meaning from the messiness of life.

But along the way, the world hands us its spreadsheet and says, Show me your value.

Here’s the thing: it’s not an either/or. It’s not “make money” or “follow your purpose.” It’s about which leads. Which drives the decisions? Which shapes your goals?

Let’s be clear—your art, your words, your work deserve compensation. But what if money were the byproduct, not the purpose?

Ray Dalio, one of the most successful investors of our time, didn’t begin his journey chasing wealth. He focused on meaningful work and meaningful relationships, and wealth followed. His compass was purpose, not profit.

Imagine what could open up in your life if you made a similar shift. What would you create from that place?

What’s your primary motivation right now—purpose or profit?Let me know in the comments. I’d love to hear what’s driving you these days.

Inspired by this reflection? Share it with fellow creatives who need to remember why they started.

Rethinking Money’s Role

Lynne Twist, in The Soul of Money, offers a profound shift in perspective. She challenges the myth of scarcity and invites us into a worldview of sufficiency—where money becomes a tool for expressing our values rather than a measure of our worth.

Stephen King once said he never wrote for the money. He wrote because he couldn’t not write. The money was a fortunate consequence.

And that’s the thread I invite you to pick up.

When we create from a place of joy and alignment—when we tune in to our Divinely Inspired Life Purpose—we become conduits for something bigger than commerce. And ironically, that's often when abundance begins to flow.

But even when it doesn't show up immediately in your bank account, you’ll notice it somewhere more important: in your soul’s fulfillment.

A Different Way to Measure Success

Let’s redefine success—not as a number, but as a resonance.

Brian Johnson, founder of Heroic, speaks to this beautifully. True happiness, he says, comes from meaningful work, authentic relationships, deep engagement, and a sense of purpose.

The Life On Purpose perspective aligns: money is a form of energy—but it must be in service to something greater. Otherwise, it becomes a substitute for what really matters.

Ask yourself:

“Is my relationship to money being shaped by love (abundance and alignment), or by fear (lack and survival)?”

This isn’t just an abstract question. It’s one that can change your life.

Because once you see how fear subtly dictates your goals, you can choose to pivot. To move from inherited patterns to intentional purpose. From striving to serving.

Where do you find yourself: shaped by fear, or shaped by love? Share where you’re noticing a pivot.

Practical Ways to Realign with Purpose

Let’s bring this down from the clouds and into your day-to-day. Here are a few soul-rooted practices to help you shift from money-first to purpose-forward:

* Identify Your Why. What brings you alive when you create? What do you hope others feel or experience through your work?

* Align Your Money With Meaning. How can your financial decisions reflect your deepest values? Make money your ally—not your aim.

* Practice Deep Work. Carve out sacred time for focus. Eliminate distractions. Protect your creative space like the temple it is.

* Redefine Your Goals. Make them soul-centered. Instead of “earn $X by Y,” try: “Create work that inspires connection, growth, and healing—and allow abundance to support it.”

* Take Inspired Action. Don’t wait for perfect clarity. Move. Create. Experiment. Let insight and action dance.

I’d love to hear: What’s one insight you’ve had—and what action will you take this week to align your money goals with your purpose? Drop it in the comments.

A Coaching Nugget:

I + A = G&D(Insight + Action = Growth & Development)

Insight is powerful.Action is transformative.But together—they’re alchemical.

So, what are you seeing now that you weren’t seeing before? And how will you respond?

Your Call to Action

This week, I invite you to release the pressure to monetize everything. Let your creative work breathe. Let your purpose lead.

Let your money goals be a reflection of your deepest values, not a replacement for them.

Let’s build a world where success is measured in meaning, joy, alignment, and contribution—and let financial prosperity follow that flow.

Ready to go deeper? Hit subscribe to get regular coaching reflections on purpose, creativity, and living the life you’re meant for.

Want to reflect out loud? Leave a comment or share this with someone who needs to hear it.

With purpose and love,Brad, Your Write On Purpose Coach

P.S. Let’s talk about how you’re realigning in real time. Join the chat to brainstorm and connect.

The Moment Everything Clicked

You know that moment—when your fingers are flying across the keyboard and your inner critic is, for once, taking a much-needed nap. You’re not writing the words. They’re writing you. Time disappears. Coffee cools. The usual background buzz of "Am I doing this right?" goes mercifully quiet.

That’s flow. And if you’ve tasted it even once, you know it’s not just a productivity hack. It’s home.

But let’s be honest: most of us stumble into flow like tourists without a map—thrilled we’ve found the hidden café but unsure how to get back there again tomorrow.

The questions I invite you to ponder:

What if you could train for it? What if flow wasn’t a fluke—but a practice?

Want more guidance like this in your inbox? Subscribe and let’s journey into purpose together.

“Flow is not something that happens by chance. It is a state that can be cultivated by learning to master the challenge at hand.”—Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Let’s get curious, shall we?

What Is Flow, Really?

Flow isn’t just “being productive” or “feeling inspired.” It’s what Cal Newport would call deep work—that rare, uninterrupted stretch of pure, cognitively demanding effort where we tap into something beyond our everyday selves.

Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, who gave flow its name, described it as “a state of complete absorption,” where action and awareness merge and self-consciousness fades.

Steven Kotler pushes this further, defining it as “the peak state where we feel our best and perform our best.” And in his research with the Flow Research Collective, he’s shown that flow is not mystical—it’s neurological. It’s trainable.

And if you zoom out even further, thinkers like Ken Wilber and Robert Fritz remind us: flow is not just about function—it’s about form. It’s about being. It’s about letting your writing move through you like breath moves through a flute—less effort, more attunement.

“When you are inspired by some great purpose, all your thoughts break their bonds… you discover yourself to be a greater person than you ever dreamed yourself to be.”—Patanjali

This is the sweet spot where Divinely Inspired Life Purpose meets page.

Why We Block Ourselves from Flow

Let’s name the usual suspects that keep us on the outside looking in.

We Focus on the Words

Trying to write the “right” words is like trying to watch yourself dance. The moment you start evaluating, the magic evaporates.

Scott Ford discovered in tennis that focusing on the ball slowed him down. It was only when he switched to focusing on the contact zone—the space where racquet meets ball—that he found his rhythm.

In writing, your contact zone is the page, not the paragraph. Your job? Stay in touch with the act of writing, not the product of it.

We Judge as We Create

You cannot drive and slam the brakes at the same time. Writing and judging are neurologically incompatible. Flow lives in the nonjudgmental now.

Steven Pressfield called this “Resistance.” Cal Newport would call it attention residue. I call it the inner critic trying to run quality control during a birth. Bad timing.

We Overthink

When you try to "figure it out" before you begin, you miss the wisdom that only arrives mid-sentence.

Remember: writing isn’t about control. It’s about communion. When you’re in flow, it’s not you writing—it’s the Work writing through you.

“You do not need to know precisely what is happening, or exactly where it is all going. What you need is to recognize the possibilities and challenges offered by the present moment.”—Thomas Merton

Cultivating Flow (aka, Building a Relationship with the Muse)

This isn’t about tricks. It’s about training. About creating a sacred structure that welcomes the sacred state.

1. Shift from Control to Communion

Before you type a word, take a breath. Then another. Soften your gaze. Feel into the page. Let the pressure go.

Ask:

“What wants to come through today?”“What if this isn’t about me?”“How can I be a vessel instead of a filter?”

This is writing not from ego, but from essence.

2. Create a Flow-Inducing Ritual

As Robert Fritz writes, structure shapes behavior. So create one that points your compass inward:

* Light a candle or incense.

* Set an intention: “Let the words flow through me.”

* Set a Pomodoro timer (25 min) to keep your mind in the container.

* Begin writing immediately—no checking email, no snack break. Begin.

The ritual doesn’t summon flow. It prepares you to receive it.

“Ritual is not magic. It is preparation for presence.”—Unknown (but possibly your future self)

3. Write Fast, Edit Slow

You can’t edit a blank page, and you can’t flow if you’re editing mid-sentence. Set yourself free. Write fast. Let it be messy. Let it be true.

Kotler calls this “struggle to release.” You struggle a little, then surrender. Then—boom—neurochemically, the brain flips into flow. But not if you interrupt it with, “Was that sentence any good?”

Let it pour. Clean up later.

4. Train Your Mind to Love the Process

Cal Newport’s research reminds us: focus is a muscle. Attention is strengthened by training. If you practice sitting with discomfort—just you and the blinking cursor—you’ll eventually pass through boredom and distraction into depth and grace.

The Spiritual Dimension of Flow

Let’s go even deeper.

Flow, at its root, is about alignment. In the Life and Write On Purpose framework, that means being shaped not by your Inherited Purpose/Inner Villain (fear, lack, struggle), but by your Divinely Inspired Life Purpose/Inner Hero (love, abundance, creativity).

Your Inner Villain will say:

“You’re not doing enough.”“This isn’t good.”“You should already know what to say.”

But your Inner Hero proclaims:

“You’re already enough.”“The words will come.”“Let the energy move through you.”

Writing isn’t just a task—it’s a spiritual alignment. Share this post if you believe flow is a sacred act.

When writing becomes a Purpose Project—a vessel through which you express your divinely aligned self—it no longer matters whether the page is perfect. What matters is the process shapes you as much as you shape the story.

Your Invitation Into the Flow

What if writing wasn’t a battle but a devotion? What if the goal wasn’t just to produce—but to become?

Each time you return to the page with presence, you’re not just writing—you’re becoming someone who trusts. Who listens. Who creates from love, not fear.

What’s your biggest challenge—or insight—when it comes to finding your writing flow? Leave a comment and let’s spark a conversation.

Let’s stop waiting for flow like it’s an elusive muse. Let’s train for it like it’s a sacred calling. Because it is.

“Be regular and orderly in your life, so that you may be wild and original in your work.”—Gustave Flaubert

Final Note: Let the Practice Shape You

Your best writing isn’t waiting in some future version of you. It’s hiding beneath the static of self-doubt and over-efforting.

So this week, let’s try something:

* Write not from control, but from communion.

* Build a ritual.

* Shift your gaze from words to presence.

* Practice a little purposeful play.

And if the words come fast and free—celebrate. If they don’t—trust that even that is part of the process. Because you’re not just writing. You’re learning to flow. And that’s a beautiful thing to become.

Want to connect with other creatives exploring flow and purpose? Join the chat—we’re in this together.

A Personal Invitation to Step Into Your Flow

If this resonates with you—if you’re ready to move beyond struggle and into effortless creativity—I invite you to take the next step. Let’s explore what’s possible when you fully commit to your writing, your voice, and your unique creative journey.

I work with writers, authors, and creators who want to write with purpose, clarity, and flow—consistently. If that’s you, I’d love to offer you a no-obligation Initial Creative Clarity session. In this call, you’ll gain valuable insights into your creative process, and together, we’ll see if we’re the right match to work together.

Go to www.wbradfordswift.com/coach to learn more and request your session.

Your best, most effortless writing is waiting. Let’s unlock it together.

Ever feel like there’s just never enough time to write your book, build your creative dream, or get that idea off the ground? Like you're juggling flaming swords while trying to whisper a sonnet?

You're not alone. It’s one of the most common laments I hear from aspiring authors and creators: “I just don’t have enough time.”

But here’s the truth we often forget: we all get the same 168 hours each week. Subtract the hours for sleep, and you’re still left with close to 100 waking hours. So why do some people seem to flow forward on their big goals while others feel stuck in the swamp of “someday”?

Two words: systems and energy.

Let’s break this down together, Write On Purpose style.

1. Expand Your Existence Systems — Or Risk Shrinking Your Dreams

Think you’re overcommitted? Maybe. But more likely, you’ve just outgrown your current “existence system.”

Let me explain.

An existence system is how you structure your day, your week, your space, and your support. It’s the scaffolding around your life. And if you’re trying to build a purpose-fueled castle on a matchstick scaffolding, well… you can imagine how that goes.

As we step into our Divinely Inspired Life Purpose (as the Life On Purpose Process teaches), we start to see a bigger vision. More possibilities. More projects that actually matter to our soul.

But if we don’t upgrade our systems—calendar habits, boundaries, tech tools, people power—those dreams get heavy. Overwhelm creeps in. We think we need to cut back, when in truth we just need a bigger plate.

Action Step:Do a quick scan: What projects or commitments currently light you up? And what’s one structure (a person, a tool, a habit) you could add or adjust to support it?

Maybe it's booking weekly “creator dates” with yourself. Maybe it's getting help with tech. Maybe it's asking your partner for protected writing time. (Okay, I’ll say it: Maybe it means hiring a Write On Purpose Coach to support you.) One tweak can open the floodgates.

While I’ve used many different existence systems over the decades of being a coach and writer, over the past year, I’ve developed my own simple system with the use of my Remarkable Notebook.

2. Manage Your Energy Like a Sprinter, Not a Marathoner

According to The Power of Full Engagement by Loehr & Schwartz, energy—not time—is the fundamental currency of high performance.

That’s big.

You don’t need to cram more into your calendar. You need to pulse better.

Sprinters know this. They go all-in for a short burst—and then rest fully before the next go. And they perform better because of it.

Yet many of us (especially creators!) treat life like one long-distance grind, dragging ourselves forward with caffeine, guilt, and to-do lists that weigh more than our dogs. That’s a recipe for burnout, not brilliance.

Energy has four dimensions: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. When you attend to all four, you're not just getting more done—you’re getting the right things done from the right place.

Action Step:What is one energy-renewing ritual you could add this week? Could be walking in nature, journaling after your morning coffee, five minutes of silence before bed, or even a midday dance break. Find your version of “between the points” recovery.

Here’s the Bottom Line, My Fellow Creator

Your purpose-inspired dreams don’t need more hours. They need more energy, more alignment, and more support.

So instead of asking, “How can I find more time?”Ask, “How can I flow more energy into what matters most?”

Upgrade your systems. Honor your rhythms. Keep your Purpose Projects alive and breathing. And always remember—this isn't about productivity for productivity’s sake. It's about expressing who you truly are, in a world that’s hungry for your voice.

Feeling inspired? Great. Now take a few moments to reflect:

* When during the week do you feel most energized—and when do you flatline?

* Where have your systems stopped matching the size of your dreams?

* What would shift if you managed your energy like a sprinter, not a grinder?

Tiny shifts in awareness can unlock massive movement. Remember, one key step is taking insights you’ve gleaned and put it into action so let’s start by picking one of the above questions and sharing your answer with this community.

Remember Our New Feature: Every legitimate comment will enter you to win an autograph copy of Rainforest Shaman (book 1 of the Eagle and the Condor series) or Write On Purpose: Authoring Your Legacy in the Second Half of Your Life. Your choice. That’s how much I value hearing from you. You deserve a reward.

Let’s keep creating on purpose.

Brad (Your Write On Purpose Coach)

P.S. If you’re an aspiring author who's tired of going it alone, imagine the momentum you could create by partnering with an experienced author and coach who's been helping people like you for over 35 years. I’d love to explore what’s possible together: https://wbradfordswift.com/coach

And hey—know someone else with a book in their heart? I have a referral program to thank those who help other authors find the support they need: https://wbradfordswift.com/referral/

Let’s grow this purpose-powered creative community—one aligned author at a time.

I know, I’ve been so focused on my own writing of One Cause that I’ve been delinquent in sharing any coaching tips so let’s get into today’s Write On Purpose Coaching Tip that is dedicated to and inspired by my new client, J. S. I’m looking forward to seeing historical novel completed and published in the not-too-distant future.

If you’ve ever said, “I know I should write more, but I just can’t seem to stick with it,” you’re not alone. Aspiring authors everywhere struggle with making writing a consistent habit. But here’s the good news: it’s not your fault.

Yep, you read that right.

You don’t lack discipline. You’re not lazy. You’re not doomed to be an author who never actually writes. The problem isn’t you. It’s the way you’ve been taught to approach habit-building.

The truth? The secret to developing a powerful, daily writing habit isn’t in sheer willpower or waiting for inspiration to strike. It’s in designing your writing habit so small that it’s impossible to fail.

That’s where Tiny Habits, a groundbreaking method by BJ Fogg, and the insights from Atomic Habits by James Clear, come in.

Let’s dive into how you can use purpose-driven habit design to make writing as natural as brushing your teeth.

Step 1: Make Writing Goals Stupidly Small

(Yes, even one sentence counts.)

The biggest mistake aspiring authors make is setting a goal that’s too big—like committing to writing 1,000 words a day when you’re struggling to write even once a week.

Fogg and Clear both emphasize starting small—absurdly small. Think:

* One sentence per day.

* Opening your writing app and typing a single word.

* Jotting down one idea for your story.

This sounds ridiculous, right? How can one sentence a day turn you into a published author?

Here’s the magic: When you lower the bar to an effortless level, you remove resistance. The hardest part of writing isn’t the writing—it’s starting. And once you start, chances are, you’ll write more than just one sentence.

It’s about creating momentum. No more staring at a blank page and dreading the session. Just type one line and call it a win.

Step 2: Anchor Writing to Something You Already Do

(“After I make my coffee, I will write one sentence.”)

The key to making habits stick is to tie them to something you already do daily—a concept called habit anchoring in Tiny Habits.

Think of something you do every day without fail:

* Brushing your teeth

* Drinking your morning coffee

* Opening your laptop

* Sitting down at your desk

Then, attach your writing habit to it. For example:

➡ After I pour my morning coffee, I will open my notebook and write one sentence.➡ After I check my email in the morning, I will write one sentence in my manuscript.➡ After I close my laptop at night, I will jot down one idea for tomorrow’s writing.

By linking your new habit to an existing one, you create an automatic trigger, eliminating the need to remember to write.

Step 3: Celebrate Small Wins

(“YES! I wrote my sentence today!”)

We often think habits require motivation, but what they actually require is reward. Your brain needs to feel good about the action in order to reinforce it.

BJ Fogg recommends celebrating every tiny success—immediately.

* Fist pump? Yes.

* Whispering "I’m a writer!"? Absolutely.

* Smiling and thinking, "I did it!"? Perfect.

It may sound silly, but celebration wires the habit into your brain. When you feel good about writing—even just one sentence—you’re more likely to do it again tomorrow.

Step 4: Troubleshoot Without Blame

("If I’m not writing, how can I make it easier?")

If you struggle to keep up with your writing habit, don’t blame yourself. Instead, adjust your approach.

Ask yourself:

* Did I set the bar too high? (If so, make it smaller.)

* Did I forget to write? (If so, anchor it to something already in your routine.)

* Did I feel resistance? (If so, make it easier—open your document the night before, so it's ready for you.)

Building habits is about design, not discipline. If something isn’t working, tweak it instead of giving up.

Step 5: Let Small Habits Grow Naturally

(“I wrote one sentence. Might as well keep going…”)

Here’s the sneaky power of tiny writing habits: they expand naturally.

You may start with one sentence, but soon you’ll find yourself writing two… then a paragraph… then a page. Some days, you’ll stop at one sentence, and that’s fine. But most days, you’ll write more because starting is the hardest part.

James Clear calls this the Gateway Habit Effect—once you do the tiny action, it’s easier to keep going.

Your Tiny Writing Habit Recipe

Now it’s your turn. Create your habit statement:

➡ After I [anchor habit], I will write [tiny habit].➡ Then, I will celebrate by [simple celebration].

Example:After I pour my coffee, I will open my Scrivener document and write one sentence. Then, I’ll smile and say, "I’m a writer!"

That’s it. No overwhelm. No pressure. Just one small step.

Final Thought: Writing Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

Aspiring authors often struggle because they think they need more motivation, discipline, or time. But the real solution is much simpler: design a habit so easy it’s impossible to fail.

Once you get started—one tiny sentence at a time—you’ll be amazed at how quickly writing becomes second nature.

Now, go pour that coffee, open your notebook, and write one line. You’ve got this.

Brad (Your Write On Purpose Coach)As a Write On Purpose coach, I support aspiring authors, especially those in the second half of life to move from aspiring to actual authors, guiding them to write and publish books that leave a lasting legacy, positively impacting readers across generations and enriching their own lives with purpose and meaning.

www.wbradfordswift.com/coach

[email protected]

What was your number one nugget of gold insight that if you added a little action to it, would make the time you invested in this article worthwhile?

I’d love to hear what it was. Leave a comment below.

Unleashed - W. Bradford Swift is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This morning, I woke up with a question weighing heavily on my heart. As a grandfather—Logan calls me his Grand-Dude and Piper is learning to—I often wonder about the world my grandson and granddaughter will grow up in. What will their lives be like when they reaches my age, 75 years old, around the year 2096? This question felt so urgent that I turned to my ego-free writing teammate, GePeTo (my affectionate name for ChatGPT AI), to help me explore it in some depth.

Here’s what I asked GePeTo:

* Given the current state of the world and the degree to which we are addressing the climate challenge, what is Logan's life likely to be like when he reaches my age?

* As his Grand-Dude, what can I do to help prepare him for this likely future?

* What can I do to assist in creating a new, more positive, and caring future for Logan and generations beyond him?

GePeTo’s Thoughtful and Empowering Response

What Logan’s Future Might Hold

The reality of the climate crisis is stark, but there is hope if we act decisively. Without immediate, transformative action, the future Logan may inherit will be marked by challenges such as rising temperatures, severe weather events, biodiversity loss, and resource scarcity. Yet, alongside these challenges lies the opportunity for profound innovation, community resilience, and environmental restoration.

If humanity rises to the occasion, Logan's future could also include a renewable energy revolution, regenerated ecosystems, and a more collaborative global society. The choices we make today will determine which of these futures becomes his reality.

As I read this, I realized: the question isn’t only what Logan’s and Piper’s world will be like—it’s also about what I, as their Grand-Dude, can do to shape it.

Preparing Our Children and Grandchildren for an Uncertain Future

GePeTo’s response reminded me that while we can’t predict the world our children and grandchildren will inherit, we can equip them with the tools, values, and mindset to navigate it. Here’s how we can nurture the next generation:

Start with NatureChildren who love the natural world will grow up wanting to protect it. Take them on hikes to explore forests, streams, and mountains. Share the wonder of watching a seed sprout into a vibrant plant or the joy of growing their own food in a garden. As naturalist John Muir wisely observed, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” By grounding them in the beauty and interconnectedness of the Earth, we plant the seeds of stewardship in their hearts.

Encourage Creative Problem-SolvingThe future will demand adaptability and resilience. You can help develop these qualities in simple, playful ways. Build birdhouses, solar-powered gadgets, or other hands-on projects together. Try games that spark critical thinking and teamwork. Every moment spent nurturing their curiosity and creativity helps prepare them for the challenges—and opportunities—of a changing world.

Instill a Sense of StewardshipEven small actions can teach big lessons. Show them how to leave no trace when camping or exploring outdoors. Involve them in composting, recycling, or conserving water at home. These practices help them see that they are not just inhabitants of this Earth but its caretakers—a role they’ll carry proudly into the future.

Foster Emotional IntelligenceEmpathy and collaboration will be essential in navigating the future. Teach them how to recognize and process their emotions while understanding the feelings of others. Role-play situations where kindness and teamwork can solve problems, helping them see how connection builds stronger communities.

Inspire a Love of LearningCuriosity is the engine of progress. Share stories of inventors, leaders, and visionaries who’ve made a difference. Let them explore with science kits, art supplies, or even a telescope pointed at the stars. Encourage them to ask questions and imagine solutions. A curious mind will always find a way forward.

Creating a Brighter Future Together

GePeTo also reminded me that preparing our loved ones is only part of the equation; we must act boldly today to create a world worth inheriting. Here’s how we can do that, one step at a time:

Be the Change in Your CommunityThink local! Plant a food forest, start a community garden, or host workshops about sustainability. Partner with schools or libraries to share stories that inspire others to act. The ripple effects of even small efforts can be profound.

Raise Your VoiceWrite, speak, or share stories that awaken others to the climate challenge and inspire action. Support young activists, amplifying their voices in the fight for a better future. Greta Thunberg reminds us, “No one is too small to make a difference.” And neither are we.

Invest in Real SolutionsSupport policies and organizations working to protect the planet. Advocate for renewable energy, reforestation, and initiatives that promote sustainability. Every vote, donation, or conversation helps shift the tide.

Collaborate Across GenerationsWisdom flows both ways. Engage with communities that bring together people of all ages to share knowledge and work toward shared goals. Learn from young leaders while passing on your own insights and values. Together, we can bridge the gaps between generations for the benefit of all.

Live Your Values BoldlySimplify your life to reflect what truly matters. Reduce consumption, embrace sustainability, and show your loved ones that purpose and connection—not possessions—are the keys to a fulfilling life. Lead by example, letting your actions inspire others to follow.

This is how we prepare the next generation. This is how we create a future where they can thrive. And this is how we leave behind a legacy of hope, courage, and love. Let’s start today.

A Grand-Dude’s Legacy of Hope

As I reflect on this, I realize that the greatest gift I can give Logan is hope. Not a naive hope that ignores the challenges ahead, but a grounded, action-driven hope that says: “We can rise to this challenge. We can create a better world.”

I want Logan and Piper to look back one day and say, “My Grand-Dude didn’t just talk about making a difference—he showed me how.”

This begins with us—right now. By taking meaningful action today, we can leave behind a legacy of stewardship, compassion, and courage for our children, grandchildren, and every generation that follows.

As environmentalist Wendell Berry said, “We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” Let’s do everything we can to return it in better shape than we found it.

Call to Action

To all the parents, grandparents, and caregivers reading this: What will your legacy be? How will you prepare your loved ones and help shape the future they’ll inherit? Share your ideas, actions, and reflections in the comments. Together, we can awaken more people to this profound challenge—and opportunity.

This question started as a whisper in my heart this morning, but now it feels like a clarion call. For Logan and Piper, for your children and grandchildren, for all future generations—let’s answer it with courage and love.

P.S. Please join me in January 2025 as I continue to explore what we can do individually and collectively to make a difference for us now and for future generations. More to the point, I will be exploring who we need to be and the transformation in being so key to creating a new future we can all be proud of. I will be sharing a series here on Substack entitled One Cause. I think it may be the greatest challenge of my life as I move into my 4th quarter, so stay tuned.

Aspiring authors and creatives, have you ever felt that nagging sense that there's something more you could give, something deeper you could create? You’re not alone. The journey to aligning your inner purpose with your external actions is one of the most profound challenges—and opportunities—you'll face. Yet, the reward is a life of meaningful contribution, creative fulfillment, and the satisfaction of knowing that your work truly matters.

Let's embark on this journey together, exploring how we can combine powerful philosophical frameworks with actionable strategies to unlock your full potential. We'll delve into Ken Wilber's Integral Model, the Write On Purpose (WOP) framework, and the transformative concept of "Integral Ikigai" to provide you with a roadmap for aligning your inner world with your creative actions.

Ken Wilber's Integral Model, with its four-quadrant approach, offers a holistic view of human experience. Imagine these quadrants as lenses through which you can see different dimensions of your life and work.

On the other hand, the Write On Purpose (WOP) model simplifies life into three transformative stages: Be, Do, and Have.

Finding Your Inner Spark (Upper-Left Quadrant and Be)

The first step in this journey is to connect deeply with your inner world—your thoughts, emotions, and personal growth. In Ken Wilber’s Integral Model, this is represented by the Upper-Left Quadrant, which focuses on subjective experiences. This aligns with the "Be" stage of the Write On Purpose model, where you explore who you truly are and what drives you as a creative.

Take a moment to reflect: What are the underlying motivations that fuel your desire to write or create? Are you driven by a deep-seated passion, or are you seeking validation from external sources? The answers to these questions will help you understand your creative identity and lay the foundation for your work.

In "Die Empty," Todd Henry emphasizes the importance of clarity and urgency in this process. He challenges us to ask, "What is my mission? Where am I headed?" The clarity of purpose is essential to avoiding mediocrity and ensuring that every day counts toward building a body of work you can be proud of​.

Taking Inspired Action (Upper-Right Quadrant and Do)

Once you've connected with your inner spark, it's time to translate that inspiration into action. The Upper-Right Quadrant in Wilber's model represents your observable actions and behaviors, directly aligning with the "Do" stage in the Write On Purpose framework.

But how do you ensure that your actions are effective? Cal Newport’s concept of "Deep Work" provides a critical insight here. Newport argues that in a world filled with distractions, the ability to focus deeply on your craft is becoming increasingly rare and valuable. By dedicating time to deep, undistracted work, you not only improve the quality of your creations but also make meaningful progress toward your goals​.

Consider this: Are you setting aside regular, focused time to write or create? Or are you letting distractions and shallow tasks consume your day? The distinction between deep work and shallow work is crucial—one leads to lasting achievement, while the other leaves you feeling busy but unfulfilled.

Connecting with Community (Lower-Left Quadrant and Be)

Creativity doesn’t happen in isolation. The Lower-Left Quadrant of the Integral Model emphasizes the importance of shared values and cultural influences, which aligns with the collective aspect of "Be" in the Write On Purpose framework.

Engaging with a community of like-minded individuals can provide you with invaluable support, inspiration, and accountability. It’s why I created the Write On Purpose Creative Collaboration Gatherings which is opened to all paid subscribers.

If such support calls to you, take a moment to join as a paid subscriber.

If you are already a paid subscriber, Thanks! Now, would you be so kind as to share this article with others so we can continue to build a powerful support community?

As Rollo May explains in The Courage to Create, courage is not the absence of despair, but the capacity to move ahead in spite of it​.

Surrounding yourself with others who understand the creative struggle can help you push through challenges and stay committed to your work.

Navigating the External World (Lower-Right Quadrant and Have)

Finally, we must navigate the external world—the systems and structures that govern the creative industries. The Lower-Right Quadrant in Wilber’s model corresponds with the "Have" stage in the Write On Purpose framework, where you focus on the tangible results of your efforts.

This is where the concept of "Integral Ikigai" becomes particularly powerful.

By aligning what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and how you can be rewarded, you create a sustainable model for your creative career. It’s about finding that sweet spot where your passion meets practicality, ensuring that your work not only fulfills you but also supports your livelihood.

This idea of aligning passion with practicality is something I’ve lived and breathed throughout my own journey as a writer and coach. When I first started writing, I was driven purely by the love of it—the thrill of capturing thoughts on paper, the satisfaction of creating something meaningful out of the chaos in my mind. But I quickly realized that passion alone wasn’t enough to sustain a creative career. There was a gap between what I loved doing and what the world needed, between my inner calling and the external realities of making a living.

I’ve been exactly where many of you are now—sitting at the crossroads of creativity and practicality, wondering how to turn this deep-seated love for writing into something that not only feeds the soul but also pays the bills. It took time, and a lot of trial and error, to find that sweet spot where my writing not only resonated with others but also became a viable part of my livelihood.

That’s why I’m so passionate about supporting others on this path. I know firsthand the challenges of navigating the creative world and the importance of aligning your work with both your purpose and the needs of the world. It’s not an easy road, but I believe deeply in the power of words and stories to transform lives—including your own.

Every day, I wake up excited about the work I do, knowing that it’s not just about writing for the sake of writing, but about making a meaningful impact. It’s about helping other aspiring authors and creatives bridge that gap, to not just write, but to write with purpose, to create work that matters, and to build a life that reflects their deepest values.

If you’re struggling to find that balance, know that you’re not alone. I’m here to walk this journey with you, to offer the insights and tools that have helped me, and to help you craft a path that’s uniquely yours. This is more than just a job for me—it’s a calling, and I’m honored to share it with you.

Bringing It All Together

By integrating these models, you can create a holistic approach to your creative life. Begin by nurturing your inner world, then take consistent, focused action. Engage with a supportive community, and navigate the external world with a clear understanding of your purpose.

Imagine a life where each day is infused with a sense of meaning and direction. Picture yourself surrounded by a community that uplifts you, and imagine your work being recognized and appreciated on a global scale. When you do this becomes so much more than a dream—it grows into a possible future when you align your purpose with your actions.

So, what’s the next step you can take today to move closer to this vision? How will you ensure that your next creative project is a true reflection of your deepest values?

If you're ready to dive deeper into this journey and access more transformative insights, consider becoming a paid subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll gain access to exclusive content designed to help you unlock your full creative potential. Don’t just dream about the life you want—start creating it today.

Unleashed - W. Bradford Swift is a reader-supported publication and community. To receive new posts and support my work, become a paid subscriber.

The following is my first time sharing a portion of my current work-in-progress book with the working title, Write On Purpose: Authoring Your Legacy in the Second Half of Your Life. While it will appear towards the end of the book, I feel it’s the perfect way to introduce the book that also encapsulates my purpose and intention in writing it. (It’s also my first attempt at podcasting through Substack. Gulp!)

This labor of love is scheduled be released to the world on June 19th, National Writing Day (at least in the U.K. I’m hoping it will catch on in the U. S. as well). It will be available on Amazon for pre-order soon. So, with my Inner Villain screaming in my ear, “Don’t do it! You’re not ready to go public with this,” here goes.

In the world of writing and publishing, the prevailing focus often revolves around the pursuit of bestseller status. Authors are encouraged to chase sales figures, marketing strategies, and profit margins, as if these were the ultimate measures of success. But what if we were to redefine success as an author? What if, instead of striving to be a bestselling author, we set our sights on becoming a legacy-worthy author?

The distinction between these two goals is profound. A bestselling book may enjoy a fleeting moment of popularity, but a legacy-worthy book endures. It transcends trends and generations, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of readers. A legacy-worthy book is not just a product to be sold, but a gift to be shared—a timeless story or message that continues to inspire, challenge, and transform long after its initial publication.

So, what makes a book legacy-worthy? At its core, a legacy-worthy book possesses a set of distinct qualities and attributes. It is written with an authentic voice, one that reflects the author's unique perspective and life experiences. It carries a timeless message or theme that resonates deeply with readers, tapping into the universal human experience. A legacy-worthy book is marked by exceptional craftsmanship in writing, editing, and production, reflecting the author's commitment to creating an enduring work of art.

But perhaps most importantly, a legacy-worthy book has a transformative impact on readers. It challenges assumptions, offers fresh perspectives, and encourages personal growth and transformation. It forges a deep emotional connection, evoking laughter, tears, or powerful "aha" moments that linger long in readers' memories. A legacy-worthy book becomes a touchstone for understanding and discussing the defining ideas and events of an era, leaving a lasting imprint on the cultural landscape.

The pursuit of writing a legacy-worthy book is a noble and transformative journey, one that requires a deep commitment to authenticity, vulnerability, and personal growth. As we explore the qualities that make a book truly enduring, it's important to reflect on the stories that have left an indelible mark on our own lives.

For me, books like The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee stand out as legacy-worthy works. These books possess a timeless wisdom and a profound understanding of the human experience that transcends cultural and generational boundaries. They speak to universal truths and emotions, inviting readers to examine their own lives and values through the lens of the characters' struggles and triumphs.

Throughout my own reading life, I've encountered books that embody the qualities of legacy-worthy writing. One such book is The Overstory by Richard Powers. This sweeping, multigenerational novel explores the complex relationship between humans and trees, weaving together multiple storylines and perspectives to create a profound meditation on the interconnectedness of all life. When I first read The Overstory, I was so deeply moved and transformed by its message that I immediately read it again, immersing myself in its lush prose and powerful insights.

Another book that has left an indelible mark on me is Boy's Life by Robert R. McCammon. This coming-of-age story, set in the American South of the 1960s, is a masterful blend of mystery, magic, and nostalgia. McCammon's vivid, poetic writing captures the wonder and terror of childhood with such authenticity and emotional resonance that I've returned to this book again and again over the years, each time discovering new layers of meaning and beauty.

So, how can aspiring authors cultivate the mindset and skills necessary to create such impactful works? It begins with a willingness to dive deep within ourselves, to confront our own fears, doubts, and vulnerabilities, and to bring those raw, authentic experiences to the page. When we write from a place of genuine emotion and hard-won insight, we create stories that resonate on a soul level with our readers.

This is where the power of vulnerability comes into play. By sharing our own struggles, failures, and moments of transformation, we give our readers permission to do the same. We create a sense of connection and empathy that goes beyond the surface level of plot and character, forging a bond that can last a lifetime.

As authors, shifting our focus from bestselling to legacy-worthy requires a fundamental change in mindset. It means moving beyond the allure of quick success or external validation and instead focusing on the deeper meaning and impact of our work. It means writing with empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the world. It means embracing the idea of writing as a form of service, offering something of value to readers that can enrich their lives or expand their understanding of the world.

This shift in mindset is not always easy. It requires us to confront our own Inner Villains – the voices of self-doubt, fear, and resistance that can hold us back from truly pouring our hearts and souls into our writing. But by tapping into our Inner Heroes—the voices of courage, compassion, and purpose that inspire us to create something meaningful and enduring—we can rise to the challenge of crafting a legacy-worthy book.

So, how can you overcome your own Inner Villains and harness the power of your Inner Heroes to write a book that will stand the test of time and leave a lasting impact on your readers?

Of course, writing a legacy-worthy book is not without its challenges. Fear and resistance can be constant companions on the journey, whispering doubts in our ears and tempting us to play it safe. In these moments, it's essential to have strategies in place to stay motivated and committed to our vision.

One such strategy is to seek out mentors and writing communities who can offer guidance, support, and accountability along the way. Surrounding ourselves with others who share our passion for meaningful storytelling can provide a source of inspiration and encouragement when the road gets tough.

Another key aspect of writing a legacy-worthy book is understanding our target audience and crafting our message with empathy and intention. We must ask ourselves: Who are the readers who will most benefit from this story? What are their deepest needs, fears, and desires? By writing with our audience in mind, we can ensure that our book reaches the hearts and minds of those who need it most.

It's also important to recognize that writing a legacy-worthy book is not just about the end product, but about the personal growth and transformation that occurs along the way. As we pour our hearts and souls into our writing, we are inevitably changed by the process. We gain new insights, face our own demons, and emerge on the other side with a greater sense of purpose and clarity.

This growth mindset is essential for navigating the practical realities of the publishing industry and the challenges of marketing and promoting our work. While the path of the legacy-worthy author may not be the easiest or most straightforward, it is ultimately the most rewarding.

As authors, we may not know when we set out to write a book whether it will become a bestseller or a legacy-worthy work. But by embracing the intention to create something meaningful and enduring, we open ourselves up to a higher purpose in our writing. We create a bigger game for ourselves, one that challenges us to dig deeper, to be more authentic and vulnerable, to strive for excellence and craftsmanship in every aspect of our work.

So, dear aspiring author, I invite you to embrace the journey of writing a legacy-worthy book with courage, authenticity, and an open heart. Trust in the power of your own unique voice and experiences to create something truly meaningful and enduring.

And remember, the concept of legacy-worthy writing extends beyond just books. Every article, essay, or social media post we create has the potential to touch lives and leave a lasting impact. By approaching all of our writing with the same level of intention, craftsmanship, and heart, we can build a body of work that speaks to the best in ourselves and in our readers.

The path of the legacy-worthy author is not for the faint of heart. It requires a willingness to face our fears, to be vulnerable and authentic, and to persevere in the face of obstacles and setbacks. But for those who are willing to embrace the challenge, the rewards are immeasurable.

So, dear reader, I invite you to consider: What kind of author do you want to be? Are you content to chase fleeting success and external validation, or are you ready to embark on the journey of creating a legacy-worthy book? Are you willing to confront your Inner Villains and tap into your Inner Heroes, to write with purpose and meaning, to offer something of enduring value to the world?

The choice is yours. But know this: The path of the legacy-worthy author is not an easy one. It requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to grow and evolve as a writer and a human being. But it is also a path of profound rewards—the satisfaction of knowing that your words have touched lives, shaped minds, and left a lasting impact on the world.

So, are you ready to embark on this transformative journey? Are you ready to create a book that will stand the test of time and leave a lasting legacy of wisdom, hope, and inspiration?

The blank page awaits, my friend. Let's begin. And I, for one, can't wait to see where it takes you.