As a writer, I have always been drawn to the power of storytelling. So, when I heard about the Writing with the Soul workshop led by Adrienne Young, I knew I had to attend.
The workshop sells out almost immediately, so I set a timer, sat at my computer, and registered the moment it opened. I managed to nab a spot and I was so happy to be in!
Known for her captivating writing style and ability to tap into emotions, Adrienne promised a unique approach to writing that focused on authenticity and vulnerability. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
In this article, I’ll share my experience attending the workshop and the impact it had on my writing. From emphasizing the importance of writing from the heart to creating deep and authentic characters, this workshop offered a new perspective on what it means to be a writer.
Key Takeaways from the Workshop
One of the most significant takeaways from the workshop was the emphasis on writing from the heart. Adrienne stressed the importance of being true to yourself and your experiences when crafting a story. As writers, we often try to write what we think will be popular or what we think publishers want to see. But in doing so, we lose sight of what makes our writing unique.
And it’s not just writing what we think readers will want. I, for one, often find myself trying to force myself into a writing technique that doesn’t necessarily fit how I write. One of the things I realized during the workshop is that I was suffocating my story by trying to write it how I felt it should be written.
The workshop also highlighted the power of vulnerability in writing. By allowing yourself to be vulnerable on the page, you create a connection with your reader that can’t be replicated in any other way. Adrienne encouraged us to explore our fears and insecurities and use them to fuel our writing.
There were lots of techniques and tips that Adrienne share for how to tap into your soul by writing, but I feel that sharing too many specifics would take away from the workshop itself. In the end, everything I learned through the workshop directly reflected on me as a writer. It was less about craft, and more about being true to yourself, which is exactly what I needed.
The Workshop’s Unique Approach
One of the things that set this workshop apart was the interaction with Adrienne Young and other writers. Rather than simply sitting through lectures, we had opportunities to connect with each other, participate in discussions, and ask for guidance.
The workshop also offered opportunities for self-reflection and creative exploration. Through writing exercises and prompts, we were encouraged to explore our emotions and experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
As a parent with a full-time job, I appreciated how flexible the workshop was schedule-wise. I could make the workshop work for me, even if that meant I needed to “catch up” from time to time.
The Impact of Writing with the Soul
Attending the Writing with the Soul workshop had a significant impact on my writing. Not only did I gain a new perspective on the writing process, but I also observed changes in my writing style and technique. By tapping into my emotions and experiences, my writing became more authentic and compelling.
The biggest thing is I’m writing again. I’ve thrown myself into a draft that I am writing strictly on vibes and emotions with the bare minimum of plotting done. I am letting my story unfold the way it wants to and writing with the soul, my soul.
But the impact went beyond just my writing. I also experienced personal growth and development as a writer. The workshop encouraged me to take risks and be vulnerable in my writing, which has carried over into other areas of my life.
Finally, attending the workshop increased my confidence in expressing personal experiences. As writers, it can be challenging to share personal stories and emotions. But through this workshop, I learned that vulnerability can be a strength, not a weakness.
A Plug for Writing with the Soul
Overall, attending the Writing with the Soul workshop was an unforgettable experience. The emphasis on authenticity and vulnerability in writing was refreshing and inspiring.
For aspiring and established writers, I highly recommend attending a workshop like this. It offers a unique approach to writing that can help you tap into your emotions and experiences in a way that feels authentic and powerful.
Reflecting on the role of soulful writing in contemporary literature, I believe it is more important now than ever. With so much noise and chaos in the world, writing that is honest and heartfelt can offer a sense of connection and meaning. And as writers, we have the power to create that connection through our words. By writing from the soul, we can create stories that resonate with readers and make a lasting impact.
Attending the Writing with the Soul workshop was a transformative experience for me as a writer. It taught me the importance of writing from the heart and being vulnerable on the page. It also offered a unique approach to crafting deep and authentic characters that will stay with me as I continue to write.
Taylor Munsell 
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