The week after Christmas is strange.The year is basically over, the new one hasn’t started yet, and the pressure to “figure everything out” starts creeping in.If you’re feeling behind… if you’re wondering why you didn’t make more progress… or if you’re already disappointed in yourself before the new year even begins...this video is for you.In this walk-and-talk reflection, I share a grace-centered way to look at the past year and a healthier, more sustainable way to think about goals, growth, and New Year’s resolutions.00:00 Introduction and Year Reflection00:46 Navigating the In-Between01:27 Rethinking Goals and Expectations02:23 Embracing Grace and Progress04:01 Intentional Steps ForwardYou didn’t fail 2025.You’re not behind.And you don’t need to blow up your life to move forward.Maybe this isn’t the year everything changes.Maybe it’s just the year you begin.If you’re an aspiring writer, creative, or busy parent who wants to make progress without burning out, stick around. This is a conversation we’re going to keep having.#NewYearReflection #GraceOverHustle #PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift #CreativeLife #AspiringWriter #WritingLife #CreativeProcess #FaithAndWork #PurposeDriven #SlowGrowth #IntentionalLiving #FindTimeToWrite

visit https://early.tcburr.com to create a writing rhythm that works with your busy life

check out https://start.tcburr.com to get my Scrivener QuickStart GuideIf you’re a busy dad who wants to write a book but can’t afford to waste time on the wrong setup, this video is for you.

One of the first questions most aspiring authors ask is simple and practical:

What tool should I use?

And two that come up often in this discussion are Google Docs and Scrivener. I’ve written in both while working, raising a family, and trying to make steady progress on my debut novel. In this episode, I walk through how each tool actually feels to use when your energy is limited and your writing time is unpredictable.

Here’s my honest takeaway. Both tools work. One of them is built specifically for long-form writing like books.

In this video, I cover:- Why so many writers start in Google Docs and where it shines

- Where Google Docs starts to feel limiting for book-length projects- Why Scrivener is designed for novels and long-form writing- How each tool fits into a tired, distracted writing schedule- What matters more than software when your goal is to finish a book

This is not a hype video or a hard sell. It’s a practical comparison for people who want to write a book alongside real life.

If you’re an overworked dad with a full calendar and a story you still want to tell, this should help you choose a writing tool that makes it easier to keep going.

Check out Scrivener https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener/overview?fpr=t-c37

This is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS00:00 Scrivener vs Google Docs for Writing a Book00:35 My writing journey and why tools matter01:32 Why writers need a system03:00 Do you need to invest in writing software?03:34 Getting started in Scrivener04:01 Where Google Docs works better07:16 Where Scrivener works better10:48 Scrivener or Google Docs: which is better?11:56 Final verdict12:14 When Scrivener and Google Docs both make sense

#Scrivener#GoogleDocs#WritingTools#AspiringAuthor#BusyDadLife#WritingABook#DadWriter#AuthorLife#WritingInYour40s#FinishYourBook

If you want to finally write that book, you need a system! Get the early writer's blueprint at ➡️ https://early.tcburr.comIs this the year you finally write the book you’ve always dreamed of?If you’ve ever said “I want to write a book someday” but struggle with time, motivation, or consistency, this video is for you.AI is everywhere. Technology is moving fast. But real stories, lived experience, and human connection can never be replaced. The world doesn’t need more content. It needs your story. WE need your story. In this video, I break down what actually gets books written (and why big January pushes aren't enough), including:• Why motivation fades, and what works instead• A simple system most aspiring writers are missing• How consistent writing habits are built over time• Why writing alone is harder than it needs to beIf you’re tired of starting and stopping, waiting for inspiration, or telling yourself you’ll “get serious someday,” it’s time for a better approach. Let this be the year you finally take action. 👉 Get the Early Writer’s Blueprint (my gift to you):https://early.tcburr.comhttps://early.tcburr.comIt’s a 30-day progressive system designed to help you build real momentum, without burnout, perfectionism, or all-or-nothing thinking.And follow along with my journey  @tcburr  for more writing encouragement. You've got this, writer. PS - Go read Atomic Habits - https://amzn.to/4oTWR34 (this is an affiliate link, which means I'll get a small commission if you purchase, at no extra cost to you) #WriteYourBook #AspiringAuthor #WritingMotivation #NewWriter #WritingHabit #AuthorMindset #WriteEveryDay #CreativeProcess #BookWriting #WriterLife

visit https://pages.tcburr.com to create a writing rhythm that works with your busy life and full schedule! Think you're too busy to write a book? You're not alone, but you're also not stuck. Every author has wrestled with the same challenge: finding time that doesn’t seem to exist.In this video, I’ll share 3 powerful principles that will help you transform your writing life, even if your schedule feels impossible:1️⃣ Shift Your MindsetStop believing you need giant chunks of time. Small consistent reps beat occasional marathons.➡️ visit https://tcburr.com to get my Mindset Reset Guide for Authors2️⃣ Protect Your TimeLearn simple, intentional strategies to carve out writing space (yes, even with a busy life).3️⃣ Write in CommunityAccountability and encouragement accelerate progress and keep you going when motivation fades.You don’t need more hours in the day.You need a new perspective, and I want to help you finally start (and finish) your book. Because the world deserves to read it.

Subscribe on YouTube @tcburr

Which principle are you implementing this week?#WritingHabits #BusyWriters #WriteYourBook #NoTimeToWrite #AspiringAuthors #AuthorMindset #WritingTips #WritingRoutine #WritingMotivation #WritersCommunity #BookWritingJourney

visit https://pages.tcburr.com to set a goal, make progress, and see big results on your book while still building in time for rest!

Writing a book is one of the hardest (and most meaningful) things you’ll ever do.But if I could go back and talk to myself before I started writing, these are the three things I wish I knew:1️⃣ It’s much harder and takes far longer than you think.This ISN'T because you’re “doing it wrong,” but because writing a book is a big, beautiful challenge.2️⃣ You grow more than you expect.The writing process reshapes your confidence, your creativity, and your clarity as an author.3️⃣ It’s unbelievably rewarding.Finishing your book (the book that only you can write) is worth every minute you invest. Every. Single. Minute. If you’re a new or aspiring writer, I hope this encourages you to keep going.Your story is worth the work, even if it takes longer than you'd hoped. Keep going! You've got this, writer.

subscribe on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@tcburr.#WritingTips #HowToWriteABook #NewWriters #AmWriting #WritingAdvice #WritingMotivation #AuthorTube #AspiringAuthors #WritingCommunity #WritersLife #CreativeProcess #WriteYourBook #BookWritingTips #WritingJourney #WritingMindset

AI tools are everywhere right now...but should you use them to write your book?

Watch the video episode on YouTube @tcburr

My take: You have enough REAL intelligence and creativity inside of you, so you don't need artificial intelligence to help you. I also don't think that's what readers want, anyway. In this video episode, I share my honest take on where AI belongs (and where it doesn’t) in your writing process. I’ll break down why I believe you are the only one who can write your story, and how relying on AI can rob you of the creative growth that turns you into a real author.We’ll cover:- Why using AI for writing can limit your creativity- The difference between productivity AI tools and generative AI- How to build confidence and skill the right way (through writing)AI is an incredibly powerful tool, but needs to be kept in its place and in my opinion, that place is out of the creative process. Agree? Disagree? Let me know in a YouTube comment!To create a writing routine (without the use of AI) that sees you:- Writing consistently- Making big progress on your book and- Still building in time for intentional rest, visit pages.tcburr.com to grab my free, 4-week, self-guided writing challenge. You've got this, writer. 🫶🏻#WritingTips #WritersLife #AIWriting #AIvsWriters #CreativeProcess #WritingAdvice #AuthorMindset #WritingMotivation #AmWriting #WritersOnYouTube #SelfPublishing #BookWriting #AIinWriting #WritingCoach

👉 Download my free Scrivener Quickstart Guide: start.tcburr.comWriting a novel with multiple points of view can get messy fast, but Scrivener makes it simple to keep everything organized.

In this video demo, I’ll show you how to use labels and the Outliner view to build a clean, visual multi-POV outline for your book. You’ll learn how to color-code your scenes by character, sort and rearrange your story. This can help you spot pacing or balance issues before you even draft.If you're writing a story with multiple POVs, this system helps you see your story clearly and stay focused from first draft to final edit.📘 What you’ll learn:How to assign labels for each POVViewing scenes in the Corkboard by label (POV)How color-coding provides quick visuals to improve pacing and consistency👉 Download my free Scrivener Quickstart Guide: start.tcburr.com👉 Try my Scene Card Template (Story Genius compatible): story.tcburr.com#scrivener #writingtips #amwriting #authortips #writingsoftware #novelwriting #scrivenertutorial #writingproductivity #writersofyoutube #writingadvice #writingorganization #outlinetips #multiPOVnovel

visit story.tcburr.com to get my free Story Genius scene card template!

Check out the video of this episode on YouTubeWant to use Lisa Cron’s Scene Card method (from the book Story Genius) inside Scrivener? In this video, I walk you through exactly how I build these cards in Scrivener to outline, plot, and shape each scene with cause, effect, and internal stakes.You’ll see how I:- Set up a scene card template (Alpha Point, cause/effect, “third rail,” etc.) - Use color coding and metadata - Make sure every scene has internal + external movement- Keep everything organized

This is a demo-style video and best consumed on Youtube.

Whether you're a plotter or a pantser, this demo will help you bring better focus to every scene, and avoid wandering pages that don’t move your story forward.If you want more Scrivener walkthroughs, subscribe to @tcburr on YouTube and comment to let me know what you'd like to see! #Scrivener #SceneCards #StoryGenius #WritingSoftware #WritingTips #NovelPlanning #WritersLife #AmWriting #WritingAdvice #BookWriting #Plotting

**This is a video demo-style episode and is best consumed on YouTube @tcburr **

What's the right tool for you to write, edit, and organize your book?If you're a new or aspiring author who's ever wrestled with this question, Scrivener might just be it.In this episode, I’m sharing why I love Scrivener. From its powerful features to its one-time cost (no subscriptions!) and generous trial period that lets you test it out before you commit, I think Scrivener is hands-down the best writing software there is.Whether you’re outlining your first novel or organizing your nonfiction book, Scrivener can help you stay focused, structured, and creative, all in one place.In this video we'll discuss:✏️ Why Scrivener is my go-to writing tool🗂️ Favorite Scrivener features for authors🆓 How to use the free trial to test your writing workflowIf you’re wondering, “Is Scrivener worth it?” for me it's a resounding YES! But watch this video and decide for yourself!

Visit pages.tcburr.com and grab my 30k in 30 Days self guided writing challenge.

You've got this, writer! #scrivener #writingsoftware #writingtools #writingapps #writingtips #amwriting #newwriters #writingmotivation #authorjourney #writingadvice

Everyone’s searching for the secret to becoming an author, but the simplest truth is, you just have to start writing. ✍️In this episode, I’ll show you how to build momentum without burning out.You’ll learn how to:✅ Start small and stay consistent

✅ Make your writing rhythm easy to stick with

✅ Track your progress visually

✅ Celebrate your successes (because progress counts!)Your routine doesn't have to be perfect, and you DON'T have to break the bank buying the most expensive writing tools. You just have to start showing up, one small session at a time.If you’re a new or aspiring author who’s ready to finally start (and finish) your book, this is your reminder: you everything you need to get started today.So why wouldn't you? :) To create a writing routine that sees you:- Writing consistently- Making big progress on your book and- Still building in time for intentional rest, visit pages.tcburr.com to grab my free, 4-week, self-guided writing challenge.

And get my free Word Count Calculator at tcburr.comYou've got this, writer. 🫶🏻#writingtips #becominganauthor #writingadvice #amwriting #writerslife #howtobeawriter #newwriters #writingmotivation #authortips #writingmindset

If you’ve been struggling to build a consistent writing routine, this video is for you!A GREAT companion to this episode is my 4-week self-guided writing challenge, which you can download for free at pages.tcburr.com.Every writer, especially the new and aspiring author, needs three things to build a lasting writing habit: a time, a tool, and a target.🕒 Time: Set a regular, realistic writing schedule that helps you show up consistently. This *DOES NOT* have to mean writing every day.🛠️ Tool: Don’t overcomplicate your process. Find the tool that's best for you, and use only the tools you need for the job of writing your book.🎯 Target: Set a goal you can actually hit. Word count, writing days, or hours are all great candidates for a good target. The key is giving yourself grace and celebrating progress.In this episode, you’ll learn how to simplify your writing process, create a routine that fits your life, and finally start seeing big progress on your book.To create a writing routine that sees you writing consistently, making big progress on your book, and still building in intentional rest, visit pages.tcburr.com to grab my 4-week, self-guided writing challenge. You've got this, writer. 🫶🏻

Reading isn’t just entertainment, it’s a writer’s secret weapon.

If you want to become a better writer, you need to become a better reader.

In this episode, we’ll break down how reading helps writers in three powerful ways: education, inspiration, and recreation.

Reading teaches you about your craft, and it can also teach you storytelling techniques, structure, pacing, and style without sitting in a classroom.

Books spark new ideas, fuel your creativity, and keep your imagination flowing.

And reading for fun keeps you connected to the joy of stories, making your own writing more alive.

Whether you’re a new writer just starting your first book or an aspiring author who wants to sharpen your craft, this episode will show you why reading is one of the most important habits you can build.Some of my favorite writing books: - How to Really Write a Book (and other forms of self-torture) by Sarah Dressler- Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody- Story Genius by Lisa Cron- On Writing by Stephen King- The Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald Maas- Published by Chandler Bolt- The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

What are YOU reading?

For help creating a writing routine that sees you:- writing consistently- making big progress on your book and- still building in intentional restVisit pages.tcburr.com to grab my 4-week, self-guided writing challenge. You've got this, writer. 🫶🏻

So many writers believe their value depends on hitting a daily word count.

If you don’t reach 1,000 words a day, you’re failing.

If someone else writes more, you’re not a “real writer.”

But the reality is, your worth was never meant to be measured in numbers.

In this video, I’ll share why word counts don’t define your success, and why you, as a writer, already have value and dignity simply because of who you are.

We were created to create, and writing should bring freedom and joy, not shame or comparison.

If you’re a new or aspiring author, this message is for you.

You don’t need to keep up with anyone else’s pace.

You don’t need to earn your identity as a writer through word counts.

You already belong here.Your writing matters because you matter.

And when you write from that truth, you’ll discover a more sustainable, joyful, and authentic writing life.

Subscribe to  ⁨@tcburr⁩  on YouTube for more writing & mindset encouragement, and visit tcburr.com for free writing resources or to schedule a coaching call.

You've got this, writer. 🫶🏻

As a new or aspiring author, it’s easy to feel like you’re not making progress fast enough.

Writing a book is a long, challenging process and imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and comparison can make you question whether you’re really a “real writer.”

But every step forward counts, and learning how to celebrate your progress as an author is one of the best ways to stay motivated and keep writing.In this episode, we’ll discuss strategies I use to help acknowledge wins and boost confidence as a writer.

✅ How to track your writing progress visually so you can see tangible proof that your book is taking shape

✅ Why it’s important to mark milestones as a new author — from your first few words to your finished draft manuscript

✅ Simple ways to reward yourself tangibly so your brain connects writing with achievement and joy

Whether you’re working on your first novel, nonfiction book, or personal writing project, these mindset shifts will help you:

- Beat imposter syndrome as a new author

- Stay motivated during the long writing process

- Build confidence and consistency in your writing habit

Remember that progress, not perfection, is what makes you a successful writer

Writing a book isn’t just about reaching the finish line.

It’s about recognizing the growth, discipline, and creativity you build along the way. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or stuck, celebrating small wins can transform your writing journey.

To start writing consistently, making big progress on your book, and still build in intentional rest, grab my 4-week writing challenge today as my gift to you.

Get it at ➡️ pages.tcburr.com

What's a big author win YOU'RE celebrating?

If you're watching on YouTube, let me know in a comment.

If you're listening on Apple Podcasts, rate and review the show 🙏

For new and aspiring authors, it's easy to feel terrified, frustrated, and overwhelmed by social media (ask me how I know 🫠).

Or at least, it's easy to feel like you aren't doing enough to market your books or yourself as an author.

But you can't just walk away...can you?

In this episode, I'm sharing why I'm quitting social media, and still expect to grow as an author without posting daily reels, stories, or TikToks.

We'll discuss:- Why social media return on investment (ROI) isn’t worth the level of effort (LOE) for most authors

- The opportunity cost of endless posting and scrolling

- How social platforms can drain creativity and confidence

- Strategies to market your book *without social media*-----------------------------------------------------If you've ever asked yourself,

“Do I have to be on TikTok or Instagram to sell books?”

“How do I market my book without social media?”

“What’s the best way to grow as an author without burning out?”

…this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.

Author, you don't have to quit completely, but you can scale back, focus on what works and what you enjoy, and finally feel the freedom to write without the constant pressure of the algorithms. Follow the podcast for more writing and mindset encouragement, and let me know in a comment or review how scaling back on social media might help you! You've got this, writer. 🫶🏻

visit tcburr.com for more writing and mindset resources.

Is now the right time to start your book? Or to start again after taking time away?

Spoiler alert: yes.

But also, maybe not. And that’s okay too.

In this episode, we’ll unpack why anytime can be the perfect time to begin writing, and how you can finally move past waiting for ideal conditions.Because let's be honest. There will NEVER be a perfect time to start writing. On this episode we discuss - the power of tapping into the natural momentum that already exists in your calendar- why you don't need perfect circumstances to start writing- how to approach your writing in seasons, instead of set in stone rigidityBecause your book deserves to be written, and today may just be the perfect day to get started. Grab my idea grabber ➡️ Idea.tcburr.comGet the 4 week writing challenge ➡️ pages.tcburr.comSubscribe to  @tcburr  for more writing & mindset encouragement.You've got this, writer.

We've all been there.

Those moments when you're feeling stuck at the keyboard, wondering how to keep writing when you’re not feeling inspired.

You’re not alone.

New, aspiring, and even seasoned authors face those days when motivation disappears.

But that does NOT mean your writing has to stop.

In this episode, we’ll cover 4 simple strategies that help writers keep making progress even when inspiration wanes.

No matter where you are in your writing journey, these tips will help you

• beat writer’s block
• stay productive
• build a writing habit that lasts

So you can finally finish that book you've always dreamed of.

Resources mentioned on this episode:

Idea Grabber ➡️ get it today at idea.tcburr.com

30k In 30 days writing challenge ➡️ get it today at pages.tcburr.com

You've got this, writer. 🫶🏻

Your mindset can be your greatest enemy, or your biggest asset when it comes to writing your book.

It doesn't matter how much time you invest in writing, what tools you use, or even how much talent you have as an author.

If you don't have the right mindset, you won't make it far in your book writing journey.

Your mindset is the foundation of EVERYTHING you'll build as an author.

But the good news is, your mindset can be rewired to HELP you write your book, instead of holding you back.

On this episode we discuss the power of mindset, how critical it is to finding success in writing, and how you can retrain your brain, reset your mindset, and start allowing it to fuel your progress today.

Subscribe for more writing & mindset encouragement

Download my free mindset reset guide for writers at tcburr.com

Grab my 30k in 30days writing challenge at pages.tcburr.com

What's ONE mindset shift you can make today? Let me know in a YouTube comment or review on Apple podcasts.

you've got this, writer 🫶🏻

Frustrated with book marketing? These 3 author marketing tips will help writers like you build your brand, sell more books, and have a lot more fun in the process.

If you're struggling to market your book, you're not alone. For SO many authors, marketing the book is the most difficult, most frustrating, and least enjoyable part of the process.

Whether you're just beginning your writing journey or you've published one more books but can't seem to get sales, marketing can feel exhausting, confusing, and honestly, sometimes it feels like it can take the joy out of writing.

We don't want that!

In this video I share 3 powerful book marketing ideas that will change the way you think about marketing your book.Feel more confident, creative, and in control of your book marketing. Without feeling like you're shouting into the void. Which of these three resonates most with you? Let me know in the comments!For help with your writing and marketing efforts, visit tcburr.com and sign up for a 1:1 coaching session. You've got this! 🫶🏻

Connect with me:

@tc.burr on Threads & Instagram

@tcburr on YouTube

Schedule 1:1 Coaching

30k in 30 Days Writing Challenge

Free Gifts!

On this episode I share a bit of an update on my writing journey.

The long and short is - it's been incredibly difficult, taken much longer than I thought it would take, but it's been worth the investment.

Every time I sit down to write I discover more about my story, and perhaps more importantly, I discover more about myself as a writer.

Are you thinking of writing a book?

I cannot encourage you strongly enough - do it!

Want help getting started?

I created a free, self-guided 4 week challenge to help you set a goal, make a plan, and add up to 30,000 words or more to your manuscript.

Get it today as my gift to you at pages.tcburr.com

You've got this, writer!