Making It

This tool is taken from the chapter called ‘Making It’ in Julia Cameron‘s The Right To Write. In this chapter, Julia narrates her experience with a young man who sought her advice on how to make it as a writer. He had a counterpoint for every piece of advice that Julia gave him and found it hard to believe that the best way of making it as a writer is to write!

Making It

This tool asks you to take a small step toward declaring yourself a writer. You will need to set aside an hour of writing time, preferably “out” rather than in. You will be writing two letters. The first letter is from your Inner Writer to you. The second letter is from you to your Inner Writer. Using this tool will give you a chance to air your fears and grievances. It will also give you a chance to offer reassurance and make plans.

Letter From My Inner Writer to Me

Dear Corinne

I’ve been waiting for this moment, patiently watching as you hesitate and question. It’s not that I don’t understand. I see the doubt, the fear that maybe what you have to say won’t matter, or worse, that you’re not a “real” writer. But here’s the truth: you are a writer. Writing isn’t about perfection, it’s about showing up, again and again, even when the words don’t flow easily or the ideas feel scattered.

I know you’re worried that your words won’t be enough, or that you’ll never finish what you start. I feel that too, but I’m here with you, always ready to write, to make something out of nothing. Every word you write is part of a larger journey, and each one brings you closer to finding your true voice.

Let me remind you: there is no wrong way to write. Only ways that will help you learn, grow, and discover. The fear you carry? It’s not something that should stop you, it’s something to move through. So, trust me when I say this—you have everything you need to begin. And there’s no better time than right now.

Let’s write together. Let’s make something real.

With love and patience
Your Inner Writer

Letter From Me to My Inner Writer

Dear Inner Writer

Thank you for your words. I feel a sense of relief after reading them, as if you’ve somehow been keeping the light on for me all this time. I know you’re right—writing isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect words. It’s about showing up, and I admit, I’ve been afraid to do that consistently.

I’ve struggled with fear, with the idea that my writing won’t be good enough. I fear that I’ll never finish anything, or that what I create will fall short of what I imagine in my head. But your reminder that I am a writer, even in my doubt, gives me the courage to try again.

I promise to set aside more time for us to write. I won’t let the fear of imperfection hold us back anymore. I’ll let go of the need to be perfect and just create. I know it won’t always be easy, but I’m willing to make the space for us. I want to honor this creative part of myself, even when it feels like the words aren’t flowing or the page is too blank.

Thank you for being patient with me. I’m ready to start, even if it’s small, and I know we’ll find our way together.

With trust and determination
Corinne

The exercise, Making It is about creating an intentional dialogue with your “Inner Writer”—a concept that personifies the part of you that holds your creative instincts, desires, and aspirations. Writing these two letters is an opportunity to explore both the challenges and aspirations you have about writing, while also committing to nurturing this part of yourself.

Would you like to give it a try?