Writer’s Compass
Writing can feel like being lost in a forest.
I know how much of a struggle it is sometimes to write. The utter anguish of it.
But I also have experienced how much books and words have saved me. After every overwhelming experience in my life, I’ve scanned the bookshelves for something that would give me the feeling that I was less alone – because I knew that someone, somewhere, had experienced something similar and had written about it. But reading and writing also connected me with worlds and experiences that I’ve never known, expanding my perception of what the world, and what life, could be.
The writing process is transformative. I realised that we want to write not just to communicate, but to connect.
Who is this for?
You want to write something, or are in the middle of writing something but have become stuck.
This offering is for those who want to connect with their writer self, that self that desires not only to communicate, but longs for connection through writing: with themselves, with others, with the world. This writing can take various forms: fiction, non-fiction, audio drama, poetry, essays: the list is endless.
It is for those who care as much about the writing process as the final product, because they understand that writing is transformative, that they can be changed by the process through being willing to go deeper - into their desires, longings, fears, memories - because they will meet themselves along the way.
What will we do
You have a self-defined writing project or goal (which can simply be to start writing).
We will work together to identify your challenges and strategise next steps towards this goal. Each writer is an individual – unique with their own set of skills, gifts, challenges and questions. My role is to provide you with support and guidance to get you closer to where you want to be as a writer. Support can come in a combination of the following depending on each person’s needs:
Accountability
This is more than just about holding your feet to the fire so you don’t procrastinate. It’s about working with you to develop a road map that you can follow. Of course, there will be agreed deadlines that you will be accountable for. But the focus is on building a level of consistency in your productivity so you can achieve the things that you want with your writing.
Time management
Often getting in the way of productivity is time management. I can help you to find a workable writing schedule that includes times of rest or time away from the writing (which sometimes can be just as important!) We are often overwhelmed with the other demands in our lives and put our writing on the backburner. If you know that writing is important to you and need help with making it a priority, we can work on creating space and and setting boundaries. This is more than just about time management – it’s about the creative process and how we make space for it in our already busy lives.
Writing craft
Depending on your writing project or goals, we can work on the craft of writing - basics of storytelling, creative non-fiction, essay-writing, audio drama, as just a few examples. We can identify your strengths and weaknesses as a writer and learn ways to continually improve your craft.
Emotional support
The writing process can be an emotional rollercoaster! I know how pervasive those negative voices in our heads can be, as well as the unconscious beliefs that hold us back. Sometimes you need support to push through negative voices or when you’ve hit a wall in your writing. Sometimes you just need encouragement and someone to cheer you on.
What the Writer’s Compass is not
This is not about outsourcing the (sometimes agonising) work of writing, or for your writing to be rescued by me. It’s about stepping into your own power and agency as a writer, even if its timidly at first, and gaining confidence as you go along.
We are working together to support you in your writing goals, but ultimately you are responsible for the work and for the consequences of following or not following the process.
I’ll be with you, but ultimately, it’s up to you to walk through the forest. This is for people willing to take that step.
Who am I
I’ve written and published short stories, audio dramas, an academic book as well as essays and book reviews. For more info please visit my websites: mayngo.net, and Prague Writers Workshop
I’ve also worked for years as a teacher of English and completed a PhD in anthropology. My experience in the educational sector has helped me understand that at the heart of learning is the teacher/student or coaching/client relationship.
It is this relationship that creates a safe space for vulnerability - where true growth and development can occur.
How will it work
I start with listening to what you need.
We will then talk through any current challenges you have and set some goals. I will then devise a strategy. The strategy determines the work ahead, while also, hopefully, leaving some room for magic, for the unexpected. In our coaching, I want to hold space for the little transformations that can occur, as you start to move towards what you want to express as a writer. I hope that in our time together you will see that you can write, and can continue on this writing journey long after you’ve finished your time with me.
The basic framework would look like this:
Monthly plan
- Calls or emails
- A personalised writing plan
- Customised writing assignments
The exact configuration for the month will be determined together during the intake session.
Cost: 250 euros per month
Any questions at all, please feel free to ask.
- An article I wrote about the writing process:
On how the writing process is like being pregnant
“Fairytale forest” by aivas14 is licensed under CC BY 2.0.