The Power of Positive Feedback
Embracing supportive critique can transform your writing process and boost your creative confidence
This is what I know to be true. Positive feedback helps your writing. How do I know? I’ve seen it work. In myself, in clients, in other writers. When we hear what is strong about our pieces, it allows us to keep turning back to the page. Keep opening our memories, our imaginations. Keep asking ourselves “what more is here?”
I’ve been in plenty of writing classes or workshops with people who wanted to know “tell me where it’s wrong so I can fix it” or “tell me what’s not working, so I can see where the piece is weakest.” I used to think that way.
Most writing courses and groups are built on that premise. Inevitably, the one piece of feedback participants seemed to crave and ask for was “what could I have done differently? Better?” There was a constant drive to correct and to perfect the writing.
That push toward betterment by focusing on what’s wrong may have gotten us far in some areas of our lives. Certainly, the wider social systems are set up this way. Schools. Grades. Job performance reviews. Literary criticism. Sports coaching. Peer journal reviews. Quality control processes. Product reviews on the internet…The list goes on and on.
Yet, when we are writing—when we are making art—there is much at stake. Our voices, our stories, our very beings long to be heard, witnessed. And when we do pick up the pen or open the laptop, that expectation of ‘being told where the writing doesn’t work’ can shut us down.
Even if its not overt. Even if its very subtle.
There’s a certain amount of suspicion when it comes to giving supportive, positive feedback or only saying what’s good about a piece. As if, if that’s all you hear, you’ll never get any better. As if somehow, it’s not enough.
I’m here to tell you it is.
When you hear over and over again, what things are working—what images are powerful; what phrases linger or pack a punch; what your writing made someone feel and experience—you remember those things. You not only feel seen as someone who has taken a risk in writing something true and honest, also you feel empowered. Your curiosity is ignited.
And, you have the courage to show up again next time, on the page—and in your truth.
Coming Soon: Embrace Positivity in Your Writing Journey!
Exciting news for those interested in writing! This September, I'll be launching two writers groups that embody the principles of positivity and the other elements of the AWA (Amherst Writers & Artists) method.
• Evening Group
• Daytime Group
These supportive communities will help nurture your creativity and boost your confidence.
Interested in joining or want to have a say in the schedule? Email me to express your interest or vote on preferred days and times. I’d love to have you join me on this positive writing adventure!