The myth of the grind: why your best ideas happen when you’re not writing
This article challenges the popular “hustle culture” mindset in writing and argues that constant grinding is not the key to creative breakthroughs. While consistency and discipline matter, creative work doesn’t function like an assembly line. Forcing high word counts and working endlessly can lead to burnout, flat storytelling, and frustration.
The piece introduces the psychological concept of incubation, the idea that when writers step away from their manuscript, their subconscious continues solving story problems in the background. Many breakthroughs happen during low-effort activities like walking, cooking, or doing housework, and not while staring at a blinking cursor.
Creative Writing for Kids: The hidden skill that strengthens every other school subject
Parent, if you’re only thinking about English grades, you’re thinking too small. Creative writing builds critical thinking, academic strength across subjects, clear communication skills, resilience and confidence in your child.
The child who can structure a story can structure a science report. The child who can analyse a character can analyse a historical event. The child who can revise a draft can tackle a difficult maths concept.
Creative writing isn’t just a hobby. It’s a life skill.
If you want more than “just passing” for your child, read this article.
#CreativeWritingForKids #ConfidentLearners #CriticalThinking #ParentingWithPurpose #KidsWhoWrite
Featured Story Number #27 – The Superpower
On the last day of summer, four friends hold a long jump competition in a quiet driveway. But when one of them takes his turn, something impossible happens. Instead of landing on the pavement, he finds himself flying through his uncle’s grand manor house just like he did as a child. Moments later, he’s back on the driveway with his friends staring in shock.
Why your author brand matters more than your book cover
You can have the most stunning book cover in your genre and still hear crickets. Your cover might stop the scroll, but your author brand is what makes someone click “buy,” leave a review, and pre-order your next release without reading the blurb.
In a crowded self-publishing world, talent isn’t enough. Visibility isn’t enough. Even a brilliant manuscript isn’t enough. Readers choose writers they know, trust, and feel connected to. If you’re pouring all your energy into your book and ignoring your brand, you’re building on shaky ground.
The question isn’t, “Is my cover good enough?” It’s: “Am I giving readers a reason to follow me beyond one book?”
If you’re serious about becoming an author and not just publishing a book, it’s time to build your brand on purpose.
Second Book Syndrome: How to write your next book after a successful debut
Your debut novel did well, readers loved it, it got great reviews, maybe even awards. But now you’re staring at a blank page thinking, “What if that was my only good book?”
Welcome to Second Book Syndrome.
Book one, there was no pressure and no expectations. Just you and the story. But with Book two comes deadlines, readers waiting and comparisons to your published first book. You’re not just writing a novel in private anymore, you’re now writing under a spotlight.
That added pressure brings more self-doubt and panic. The imposter syndrome is louder and there’s temptation to “get it perfect” in the first draft.
Second Book Syndrome doesn’t mean you’re a one-hit wonder. It means you care about making sure this book is even better than the first. So just breathe, and take it one step at a time.
Give yourself permission to write badly, permission to separate creativity from pressure, and permission to find a new voice without comparing it to the old one.
Read the rest of the article for more encouragement, tips and inspiration.
Why professional support matters for young authors
If your child loves writing and storytelling but feels stuck, frustrated, or unsure how to improve, working with a children’s writing coach could make all the difference. While parents play an essential role in encouraging creativity, professional writing support helps young writers develop the technical skills, structure, and confidence they need to grow.
In this article, we explore how a children’s writing coach provides personalised feedback, teaches essential storytelling techniques such as character development and plot structure, and helps kids set achievable writing goals. Unlike traditional school writing lessons, creative writing coaching focuses on imagination, voice development, and real-world publishing insight tailored specifically for young writers.
The 30-day countdown: A stress-free marketing plan for your book launch
New article – You’ve written the book. The hard, lonely, soul-stretching part is done. And now it’s almost launch day, and suddenly everyone expects you to become a marketing expert overnight. If you’re staring at your calendar thinking, “I have no idea how to do this without burning out,” take a breath. You’re at the part no one warns you about.
A simple 30-day launch window works because it keeps momentum without overwhelming you. It gives you permission to show up imperfectly, talk about your book like a human, and build real connection instead of noise.
From bedtime stories to book deals: How to support your child’s writing dreams
When a child says they want to play football professionally, parents sign them up for training. When they show talent in music, we get them lessons and a proper instrument. But when they want to write? We hand them a notebook and hope for the best.
Taking your child’s writing ambitions seriously doesn’t mean pushing them into early burnout or turning creativity into a chore. It means recognizing that if they’re passionate about storytelling, they deserve the same support and structure we’d give any other meaningful pursuit.
Why most writing advice ignores real-life constraints
Most writing advice for aspiring authors comes from a good place. But most of it was written by people who don’t have your own life. They don’t know about your demanding full-time job, your hectic business, your kids who need help with homework, or your ageing parent who needs care three evenings a week.
If you’re juggling a high-powered job or running a business and raising kids, your “free time” isn’t really free. You’re managing deadlines, clients, team issues, school runs, homework help, packed lunches, bedtime routines, and that invisible mental load that seems to follow you into every room.
So no, you’re not “lazy” or “undisciplined” if you’re not writing daily. You’re carrying a lot.
But I believe if you have a story inside you, you deserve the support to tell it – regardless of how busy, messy, or complicated your life might be.
Writing when you’re tired, not inspired
Too tired to write? That might be exactly when you should.
Some of the most honest writing I’ve done hasn’t come from inspiration or clarity. It’s come at the end of long days, when my brain was dull, my energy was low, and I didn’t have the strength to overthink.
The quiet truth: when you’re tired, your inner critic is tired too. That voice that nitpicks every sentence loosens its grip. You stop trying to be clever. You stop performing. And something raw, something real and true slips onto the page.
Waiting for perfect conditions is one of the fastest ways to stay stuck. Writing while tired isn’t laziness or lack of discipline. It’s often how work actually gets finished.
So if you’ve got ten quiet minutes tonight and a story that won’t leave you alone, don’t wait to feel inspired. Just write truthfully. That’s often more than enough.
What it means to take writers seriously, especially children
Children are natural storytellers. The worlds they create, the characters they invent, the questions they ask; those are not distractions from “real learning.” They are learning. And when their stories are dismissed as cute or unimportant, something powerful gets silenced.
Taking young writers seriously doesn’t mean pretending every story is perfect. It means listening, providing resources, offering guidance and celebrating effort, not just outcomes. It means saying, “Your voice matters.”
When children feel seen as writers, they don’t just write better stories, they grow into confident thinkers and communicators who aren’t afraid to share their ideas.
Why most writers edit too early and sabotage momentum
Your first draft is not meant to be impressive, it’s meant to exist. Stories are discovered by moving forward, not by endlessly fixing what you already know. Every time you switch from writing to editing, you slam the brakes on your creative momentum. No wonder the story stalls.
How storytelling helps children reclaim agency
When children are given the space to tell stories, something powerful happens. They stop being passengers in their experiences and start becoming authors of them.
Through storytelling, children practice choice, they explore fear safely, they imagine solutions before they face them.
The brave princess, the misunderstood dragon, the child who finds their way through chaos; these aren’t “just stories.” They’re rehearsals for real life.
What publishers actually look for beyond “good writing”
It is true; having brilliant prose isn’t enough to get published. After all those hours perfecting your sentences and agonizing over word choices, this feels like a betrayal. But understanding what publishers really want will actually make you a stronger writer and give you a much better shot at getting that yes.
Why creative expression is not a luxury for children
Creative expression isn’t the cherry on top of a child’s education. It’s not a luxury reserved for families with extra time and money. It’s actually one of the most fundamental building blocks of healthy child development, right up there with learning to read and basic numeracy.
Why finishing drafts matters more than talent
The most naturally gifted writer in your writing group probably isn’t the one who’ll get published first. It’s the one who actually finishes their drafts.
Does talent matter? Yes it does. But talent without the ability to finish projects is like having a sports car with no engine. It might look impressive, but it’s not taking you anywhere.
How we are nurturing the next generation of storytellers
At Accomplish Press, we’ve made it our mission to give young people the tools to share their inner worlds and ideas with the rest of us. But nurturing the next generation of storytellers isn’t just about teaching kids to write pretty sentences (though that’s part of it). It’s about fostering creativity, building confidence, and showing young minds that their stories matter.
Happy New Year 2026! Starting with a Blank Slate
Before you dive headfirst into your writing goals for 2026, take a moment to create what I call a “writing manifesto”, a personal declaration of why you write and what you hope to achieve through your creative practice.
Dear writer, you’re exactly where you need to be
As the year comes to a close, many writers find themselves reflecting on unfinished drafts or missed goals. This encouraging article is a reminder that your writing journey is unfolding exactly as it should.
Featured Story Number #26 – Disaster at the Fair
When a thrilling fair ride malfunctions, Josephine and her friends race against time to save trapped passengers. Amid smoke, sparks, and rising panic, the teens battle fear and failure to shut down the runaway ride. Disaster at the Fair is an adventure about courage, teamwork, and acting fast in danger.
Featured Story Number #25 – The Cat in the Library
When mysterious sounds echo through an empty school library, Harper and her friends fear a ghost. Their mission leads to a heartwarming surprise. The Cat in the Library is a cosy mystery about friendship, bravery, and an unexpected new pet.
Featured Essay – My Role Model: Serena Williams
Welcome to another week of amazing creativity from the students of our Creative Writing Club! This week, we are sharing a narrative essay, where the students were asked to write about someone they admire or consider a role model. This essay focuses on Serena Williams, and it was written by Ramona, aged 15. Enjoy! Essay on […]
Featured Story Number #24 – Treasures of the Mystery Island
The story “Treasures of the Mystery Island” follows Tyche Kalyani, a young treasure hunter and descendant of royal finders. Guided by her late grandfather’s journal, she searches for “The Lost Gem” across various locations, encountering challenges and discovering family secrets, ultimately finding the treasure and fulfilling her grandfather’s legacy.
Featured Story Number #23 – The Note
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing short stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. This week’s story was written by Aruniha, aged 11. Enjoy! The Note Nothing interesting […]
Featured Story Number #22 – Number Thirty-Seven
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing short stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. This week’s story was written by Amy, aged 11. Enjoy! Number Thirty-Seven “So, Henry, […]
Featured Essay – The Visit to The Tulip Garden
The Creative Writing Club showcases an essay by 11-year-old Aruniha, detailing a vivid visit to a tulip garden during Easter. The essay captures the beautiful colors, scents, and experiences, including playful moments with family, peaceful reflections, and a delightful ice cream treat, making it a memorable day full of joy and wonder.
Featured Story #21 – The Legend of the Mermaid
This week’s featured story, “The Legend of the Mermaid,” describes a mermaid tasked with protecting her ocean home from humans. She transforms into a human to stop a man from revealing her existence. As danger approaches, her guardian Avalon helps her escape, emphasizing the need to protect their world.
Featured Story #20 – The Mysterious Stranger
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing short stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. This week’s prompt was – write a story about a stranger who arrived in a town […]
Featured Story #19 – The Gem of Power
The story follows twin wizards, Oliver and Jack, tasked by their king to retrieve the Gem of Power from the dragon Grog. Initially competitive, they must cooperate during their quest.
Featured Story #18 – Annalise’s Adventure
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing short stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. This week’s prompt was – write a story about a girl who discovered a magic […]
Featured Story #17 – Undercover Celebrity
The latest story in the Creative Writing Club features 10-year-old Samar’s tale about celebrity David Johnson, who accepts a challenge to live undercover as his twin brother, a sports teacher. As he navigates this new life, he uncovers a prank orchestrated by his brother and enjoys a humorous resolution.
Featured Story #16 – The Court of Friendship
This week’s short story from the Creative Writing Club features Maya and Lily, best friends and basketball stars. Their friendship is tested when jealousy arises over a new student, Jake. They find themselves on rival teams during a championship match, ultimately reconciling after a tense game, realizing their bond is more important than rivalry.
Resolutions – Short Story by Tolulope Popoola
On New Year’s Eve, Danielle reluctantly joins her best friend Sarah and boyfriend Matthew at a crowded bar. Engaging with new acquaintances, she finds herself invited to a charitable ice plunge event. The experience helps revive her spirits, leading to a celebratory night.
Featured Story #15 – The Lost Boy
This week’s Featured Short Story, “The Lost Boy,” follows a young boy named Eddy, who gets separated from his family while camping. He meets a talking fox named Ella, who helps him find his way back. Together, they navigate challenges, ultimately reuniting with Eddy’s family, who decide to adopt Ella.
Exclusive Interview – Tolulope Popoola featured in Brainz Magazine
Hello friends! I’m sharing my recent interview with Brainz Magazine. In this interview, I share a bit about my writing journey (including some interesting bits from childhood), my work as a coach and publisher, some advice for aspiring authors, and more! Click here to read the full interview Hope you enjoy reading! Let me know […]
Featured Story #14 – The Whispering Woods
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing short stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. This week’s story was written by Amy, aged 10. Enjoy! The Whispering Woods Lily held […]
Featured Story #13 – Day at the Seaside
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. The assignment this week, was to write a story based on a seaside setting. This story […]
Featured Story #12 – Banishing My Mom
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. This story was written by Amy, aged 10. Enjoy! Banishing my Mom “No, Freya, you can’t […]
Featured Story #11 – The New Creation
Hello everyone! We are sharing another story from our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. This week’s story was from the prompt: Write a story about a shy quiet boy who built a robot with an unusual set of skills and became famous in his town. This story was written by […]
Favouritism – Featured Story #10
In “Favouritism,” a story from our Featured Short Stories series by the Creative Writing Club, 10-year-old Chinwendu narrates the tale of sibling rivalry and jealousy. Victoria struggles with acting, overshadowed by her sister Valerie’s prowess. After a dramatic fallout and a risky runaway attempt, familial misunderstandings are resolved, demonstrating the siblings’ equal worth and unique talents. This story, penned with youthful insight, reflects on acceptance and personal growth amidst familial expectations.
The Brutal Betrayal – Featured Story #9
The Creative Writing Club presents a story of friendship and betrayal by 11-year-old Lolade. The narrative follows Nora’s emotional journey as her best friend Ben moves away, her family suffers financial hardship, and their reunion is soured by his new and cruel girlfriend Ruby. As they rekindle their friendship and Ben reveals his mother’s illness, Nora confronts her feelings of betrayal. Through adversity, Nora maintains her grades and resilience, buoyed by her father’s support, while ultimately discovering Ben’s true feelings for her.
The club encourages young writers to join and express their creativity.
The Sun and Rain Weaver – Featured Story #8
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. This week’s story prompt was: Write a story about a girl that could control the weather. […]
Greater than Death – Featured Story #7
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. This story was written by Amy, aged 10. Enjoy! Greater than Death There was […]
Essay – My Best Memory of 2023 – Featured Essay #2
Welcome to another week of amazing creativity from the students of our Creative Writing Club! This week, we are sharing another essay from our second lesson of the term. This essay was written by Harman, aged 9. Enjoy! My Best Memory of 2023 In 2023, I took part in many exciting piano exams, I went […]
Essay – My Christmas Holiday – Featured Essays #1
Happy New Year! Welcome back to Creative Writing Club! I hope you all had a lovely time over the Christmas and New Year holidays, and you are excited to start the new year. At the start of each term, the students write an essay on how they spent their last holiday. This week, we are […]
The Christmas Switch – Featured Story #6
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. For the next few days, we will be sharing stories with a Christmas theme. Today’s story is from […]
A Wonderful Christmas Adventure – Featured Story #4
We are sharing the next story in our series, Featured Short Stories, written by students in the Creative Writing Club. Every week, the students in the club work on writing stories, sometimes from their own ideas, and sometimes from story prompts. For the next few days, we will be sharing stories with a Christmas theme. So […]
How to turn your child’s love for video games into a creative writing project
Is your child obsessed with video games? What if their screen time could become story time?
Before you worry about “too much gaming,” consider this: modern video games teach world-building, character development, plot structure, and creative storytelling, the same skills used in creative writing. In this article, I share how you can turn your child’s love for Minecraft, Roblox, Zelda or other narrative games into a powerful creative writing project. If you’re a parent of a child or teenager who loves gaming, this could completely change how you see their hobby.
Let’s turn players into authors. ✍️
Read more here.
#CreativeWritingForKids #ParentingTips #ScreenTimeBalance #VideoGames #KidsWhoWrite #LiteracyMatters #YoungWriters #TolulopePopoola #WritingCoach #AccomplishPress