Untangling Perfectionism from Practice

In this seminar, we’ll use guided writing exercises and discussions in order to identify perfectionism, procrastination, and other downfalls to our writing productivity. We’ll learn how to understand our unique writing processes and where our inner voices or expectations are interrupting our goals. For the brainstorming stage of writing, we’ll discuss how to overcome imposter syndrome and our fears surrounding our ideas.

For the drafting stage, we’ll explore how to develop a healthy relationship with our inner editor and a positive conduit to the story. For editing, we’ll learn strategies for organization and control that don’t stifle the magic of the project.

And finally, when it comes to submissions and publication, we’ll develop tangible plans and reminders for ourselves to create the stamina and perspective needed to maintain a long writing career. By the end of this session, writers will have completed several worksheets with specific insight into their writing process, and will develop a personalized plan to intercept destructive perfectionist habits in the future.

Class Format

This class will take place using Zoom videoconferencing. About 15 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin, you'll receive an email from your instructor with a link to join the class meeting!

Scholarship Information

Thanks to the excellent literary citizenship of our donors, scholarships are available for all GrubStreet classes. To apply, click the gray "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your application at least one week before the start date of a class. Please await our scholarship committee's decision before registering for the class. We cannot hold spots in classes, so the sooner you apply, the better. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.

For more more detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.