"Thank you for this wonderful and insightful workshop, and for introducing me to the transformative art of writing. I feel like I have reconnected to parts of myself that I have forgotten about."
Ana V, July 2021 Cohort
More about the power of writing and journaling
Most people are not only creative but courageous and bold, but they don't often have ways of surfacing these parts of themselves. This is where writing - simply as a tool - can help, and no experience is required.
I use guided writing prompts to tap into - and often wake-up - what’s beyond their usual thoughts. This surfaces people’s hidden inner resources and innate creativity which builds their creative confidence and courage to be successful.
Working in groups people share on a deeper level and ice is broken, trust is built, relationships and teams are strengthened. People feel validated and, most importantly, seen. It’s powerful stuff and it's where the magic happens.
Not only do people need no writing experience, but also no grammar, spelling or even sense is required making working this way suitable for everyone. Don’t just take my word for it.
“When I first joined Claire’s course, I hadn’t written more than a creative sentence or two in more than five years (possibly more). As I worked through the various prompts and ideas Claire shared and taught me, I began to explore writing freely in my own time, especially journaling which helped me release a lot of the blocks I was experiencing in other parts of my life. It is quite by coincidence that on a recent call with Claire, I looked at my book shelf and realised that I had written in and finished over half a dozen large sized notebooks, cover to cover! This transformation from blocked to being set free has been the result of work done just over weekends and a few extra sessions over less than a year. I am truly grateful for, what some of my fellow participants refer to as, “Claire-Magic!” Viv
I use easy, guided writing exercises – no grammar required – and discussion. Everyone is included and all voices are heard.
By throwing out the writing rule book and using writing simply as a tool, we open the door to a new channel that bypasses our edited mind.
"Did I write that?"
People almost always write more than they say and consciously think. When I guide people to write freely, they access their innate creativity, wisdom and untapped resources. They learn they're never alone with a pen.
Surfaces perspectives, insights and ideas
Writing freely helps to surface perspectives, insights and come up with ideas. All voices are heard. and it’s where the magic happens (see case studies below).
Creative confidence and courage
Writing in this way builds creative confidence. People become more courageous when they feel that they have something to offer. They set their sights higher. They stick with problems for longer and achieve more making them more resilient.
I talk a lot about creative confidence. Here's what I mean:
Creative Confidence means that, regardless of the role I play in life or the position I hold in business, I feel I have a meaningful contribution to make; to tackle and solve problems, reach goals and come up with ideas.
When people feel creatively confident they will tackle more, believe they have something to offer and persevere for longer. Tom and David Kelley wrote about Creative Confidence in their inspiring book.
Working with writing and journaling helps to build creative confidence by giving everyone the opportunity to:
Let go, express themselves
Surface different aspects of themselves – be seen and heard
Capture stories
Exercise writing muscle and imagination
Access untapped inner resources including creativity
Externalise their internal landscape
Feel confident about what they have to offer
Have some fun
Practice active listening leading to open and flexible thinking
Creative Confidence also supports wellbeing, builds resilience and makes life altogether better.
To watch a recording of my talk 'Permission to be Creative' click here.
“Energised, inspired, curious, focused, excited…” Are just some of the words I hear at the end of workshops when imaginations have been sparked, creativity awakened and energy renewed. Testimonials here.
