The Writer's Secret Weapon: Gratitude
Why I try to be grateful every day
Every writer’s been there. You scroll through Substack, Medium or LinkedIn and see another writer celebrating 10,000 subscribers, a six-figure launch, or a book deal.
And that little voice whispers, “Why not me?”
I’ve felt it too. The frustration and envy. Even the quiet anger that someone else’s success seems so effortless while you’re still grinding out words before work.
But here’s the truth: comparison is a thief. It robs you of joy, creativity, and momentum.
The antidote? Gratitude.
Gratitude isn’t just a nice idea. It’s a power tool for writers. Because when you feel grateful, your writing changes. It softens, then refocuses, then resonates.
So how can you become a more grateful writer?
1. Start Your Day With Thanks, Not Metrics
Instead of checking opens, likes, or sales first thing in the morning, write down three things you’re thankful for in your writing life.
Maybe it’s the email from a reader who said your words helped them. Or perhaps it’s those 30 quiet minutes you have each day to write. Maybe it’s the support of your wife and family.
This habit reframes success. It reminds you that every small step matters.
2. Celebrate Progress, Not Just Peaks
Big milestones are great — but your real growth happens in the everyday writing reps.
Finished a draft today? Celebrate it.
Hit publish on an article even though you weren’t sure it was perfect? Celebrate that too.
Every small win builds the foundation for the big ones. Gratitude helps you notice them — and stay motivated long enough to reach your goals.
3. Be Grateful for the Readers You Do Have
It’s easy to focus on the subscribers you don’t have yet. But right now, real people are taking time out of their lives to read your work.
Write for them, thank them and engage with them.
Because if you can delight 10 readers, you can grow to 100. Then 1,000. Gratitude is the bridge.
Gratitude doesn’t just make you a better writer — it makes you a better person. And that shift shows up in your words: warmer, more generous, more engaging.
So next time envy creeps in, pause. Write down three things you’re thankful for. Then get back to work.
Because your best writing doesn’t come from comparison. It comes from appreciation.
👉 Want to build a writing habit that sticks?
Get my free weekday newsletter packed with practical tips for growing your audience and income through daily writing:
👻 Writing Wraith Ghostwriting
Need content that sounds like you & grows your business (without writing it yourself)? Want to work with a 25+ year veteran copywriter?