You can learn all the craft techniques in the world, but without the right mindset, writing can start to feel like a battle you never win. In this episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we’re diving deep into what we believe is the most underrated but essential part of the writing life: mindset.

Whether you’re working on your first book or just beginning to call yourself a writer, this episode explores how your inner world shapes your creative process far more than word count goals or plot outlines ever could.

We answer 13 honest and vulnerable questions about writing mindset, covering everything from fear of failure to imposter syndrome, creative blocks, limiting beliefs, procrastination, perfectionism, and what it really means to move from amateur to professional (no matter where you are in your publishing journey).

We also share the personal rituals and mental shifts that help us stay resilient, creative, and committed to the work, even on the hard days.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Why mindset is the foundation of writing success

02:19 – Our mindset journeys, what’s changed and what’s still a work in progress

10:43 – Defining a healthy writing mindset

13:29 – How mindset helped, or hurt, our writing

16:24 – Common limiting beliefs and how to challenge them

18:40 – Resistance, rejection, and reframing fear

28:47 – The power of rituals, routines, and energy management

34:56 – Coaching yourself through tough writing days

39:43 – Celebrating small wins and cultivating long-term motivation

44:16 – What it really means to think like a professional

47:21 – One mindset principle we swear by

50:32 – Outro: The role of coaching in your mindset journey

Keywords: beginner writing, writing advice, writing mindset, creative blocks, debut authors, self-belief, motivation, imposter syndrome, writing rituals, mental resilience, writing growth

Writing is hard—but it doesn’t have to be lonely. This episode is a reminder that you’re not the only one struggling—and that with the right mindset, you can keep showing up for your stories, even when doubt creeps in.

Book References:

Grit - Angela Duckworth

Atomic habits - James Clear

The War of Art - Steven Pressfield

Peak - Robert Pool and Andre Ericsson