Dani Shapiro's Writing Process & The "Myth of Inspiration" 

Truly helpful for a new author, thank you so, so much, Marie & Dani! Here are my top three takeaways: 1) the message should be true & useful, 2) I will start noticing the world, the gift around me, and I will no longer walk sightless among miracles, and 3) if I write with great specificity, my own story, my own imagination, it's going to connect.

I'm still just pondering all that I watched and heard. I think I'll have to watch it again. I am a retired firefighter, I retired at age 50 because I had seen one to many dead kids. This on top of my daughter attempting suicide 5 different times left me with a horrible case of PTSD. I have always been an overcomer and able to achieve almost anything I put my mind to, however the PTSD left me paralyzed and unable to even get out of bed. My process to getting better myself was to: 1. Help others with what I fight with. 2. Not be ashamed of what I'm dealing with. 3. Create momentum, this for me has been by forcing myself to be responsible for the lives of my animals. I have a ranch in North East Washington. And most recently I created a RU-vid channel that focuses on my life as a horseman, reconditioning my great grandfather's wood working tools. My life after the fire service. But I am vloging about it, writing about it. 4. Finding something each day to be thankful for no matter how small it is. This whole presentation spoke to me thank you! I guess the hardest part about putting something on paper would be that I would be that someone would read it and judge me for my thoughts. This whole process of creating is one of catharsis one of healing. Dani, Marie thank you for sharing.

This was by far my favorite interview on your channel- this one really spoke to me. So many nuggets. I loved Dani's voice too. So calming, soothing. This interview resonated with me on so many levels.

So wonderful. I struggle the most with referring to myself as a writer because I haven't been published yet. It's like people don't take my writing process seriously until they see a physical copy in a bookstore. I have great problems calling my writing process "work" as well because of this. Oftentimes friends and family call on the phone expecting me to stop with what I'm doing because I work from Home and that's not "work", no Office job, no leaving the house a certain time every day. This video gave me so much so thank you from the bottom of my heart!

I just want to wish anyone who's working on a writing project the best of luck! I am myself working on a project I'm very passionate about, but haven't gotten beyond the note-taking process yet. Sometimes, it's very difficult to take a story idea and develop it into a full story for either a whole book or (in my case) screenplay. Generally, it can be hard to develop a whole book from a single idea, even if it's non-fiction. I think reminding yourself of why a project really matters is key to completing it.

I love that she shares the fears that pop up in her head and I can relate... a trend I've seen is even amazing creatives like Dani have the same demons they're battling internally as they create. Just lets me know I'm on the right path!

I just stumbled on this interview and I am surprised that it hasn't got as much Thump's up as it deserves.What a sharp and clear mind you are!.The clip is in my download's list to enable me listen over and over until I publish my very first book.You just earned a loyal reader.Thanks.

Not necessarily a myth, but definitely not reliable. If we only wrote when we felt inspired, none of us would ever finish a thing... Great video as always, Marie!

This was the most inspiring thing I've seen in a while. "It requires courage... and endurance." Man. Time to pick up my paint brush.

Funnily enough this finally have me the push to write an article I've been meaning to write. Thank you.

Best insight: 1. Her dreams weren't big enough. Maybe I should aspire for more. For things I can't even imagine yet. 2. To not wait for the world to approve or sign off on your dreams skills talents... That is one I'm actively trying to do this year. 3. I loved the "I remember" idea. I'm going to try it today with a good cappuccino!!!

Dear Marie, my first book is bestseller in Croatia, and at this moment, I am writing my second book with all the “demons” around my head😁 Thank you for this video, I can’t even tell you how much you helped me❤️ Sending you hugs from beautifull Zagreb, All my love, Ivana Plechinger

I really like that Dani is saying it takes stamina and determination over talent!

I appreciate what was said about reaching 'the bottom of the ocean,' that utter despair when your inner voice keeps telling you 'you're no good' etc. with the acknowledgement that there is light at the top. I'm similar to Marie in that when I was 'forced' to write for my business (marketing ideas, 'creative' minutes from meetings, long emails to colleagues etc.) my fingers just raced across the keyboard and I could churn out a few pages very very quickly. What a difference now, when I'm trying to actually put my own personal stories down. Anyway, this is very helpful and I will for sure become a subscriber to MarieTV. Thanks to both of you!

Such a comforting conversation for writers to hear. Thank you.

I clicked on this today while on deadline and uninspired and I really needed to remember that it's not easy at all but it's worth it to me. x

How many times can I like this? It was full of insights for me. The most important insight is to appreciate that I do NOTICE THE GIFTS. That habit has taken decades - not to develop, because it was always my nature, but - TO ALLOW; to acknowledge. Today I will begin many sentences with "I remember..." This morning I feel like I have been privileged with a front row seat at an expensive and truly valuable writer's class, from my kitchen table in snowy northern Michigan. I will listen again. Thank you both.

« Gifts are nothing without endurability! » Loved that quote.

I cried many times as I watched this episode. I finished my first draft of my memoir and never seriously did my first edit for few months now. I am constantly procrastinating and doubting myself and judging the draft of my first book. I feel so anxious, feel lost and worthless at times. thank you so much for this episode. It made me want to face my draft again and start editing it.

Productive despair - thank you for helping me see my situation with hope. When I hit the bottom I can launch myself back up to the surface!

What a wise writer!!! This was incredibly helpful and inspiring advice!!! I'm checking out some of her work now. This was the first time I've sat and watched a 40-minute talk all the way through. As a 19-year-old avid writer (also afraid to call myself a 'writer') in college with my own blog, that's writing a book, I never related more in my life to the inner struggles discussed. I've written since I was about 8 years old - short-stories, essays about the world for fun, my philosophy etc. but I never wanted to be a writer. I never considered it until I was suddenly lauded with encouraging comments from teachers my last two years of high school and my first year of college when I was dead set on a Chemistry path. One that I had no interest or natural ability in. She's spot on about the writer's inner censor and treating writing it like a process. I keep stopping myself before I've even started because of my imposter syndrome; I feel like I have a book inside me with valid, useful things to say, but not the skill to do it justice or market it properly. I'm afraid no one will read it. But i know that I can only get better at this by writing more, that I just need the courage not insurmountable confidence. That I should stop waiting for people's permission because there's never gonna be a right time.

This was so damn good. Literally good for my soul. Aww man. I needed this. Ps.Can't wait to buy your book Marie!!

Something about the endless indignities was something I related to as I’m bumble along seeing what i create in the moments where I get a chance. It’s interesting and humbling and makes me realize things I never thought about and gives me self-wisdom to tune my direction and find out who I am here and how I feel about that and whether it is that I need to change myself or where I’m heading

So many gems in this interview. Dani's story of setting aside the 200 pages really resonated. It wasn't wasted work, It just wasn't what the book needed to be a solid, good book. And that it took stepping away from the process on book tour that gave her fresh eyes. For me, it is that nothing is just good because you made it. You make your work stronger through iteration, distance, a critical eye, sharing it with trusted people. Also, relaying that story of the writer telling his story on his side of the closed door, and his brother telling his own story on his side. I do want to write a memoir. I thought it would be easier to write now that both of my parents passed away, but I still worry about my sister's other experience. She has her story and I have mine. Thank you, Dani and Marie for a 38 rich minutes well spent.

36:17 Sabbath prayer I will take with me. Thanks!

Listened to this while outlining my BOOK!! 🙌🏼

I love what she said about ab artist having to keep their eyes and ears open. I also love the distinguishment between courage and confidence.. Face Your Fear and do it anyway is a motto I live by on the daily. Thanks as always Marie. Diana

I loved this interview! Just discovered her radio show on "Family Secrets" and heard her interview today on KoGo 600. I really liked her tip of using "I remember..." as a writing prompt. Great interview! I loved it! Will come back and listen to this again! Thank you both!

Thanks Marie, for being the inspiring person that you are and also having inspiring people share their stories on your show. I always find that I'm watching on of your episodes just at the right time I need to. Today's episode is no different. Thanks for being your unique self and sharing that with us.

So much of this interview resonates with me. I absolutely loved it! Thank you, Marie and Dani!

This is the best episode yet for writers! Thank you Marie and Dani xo Llyane

This morning while I asked for guidance for my day, I finally admitted that there's a block in my finances and in my writing. I asked to be guided as to how to unblock these areas and then this video popped up. Thank you thank you thank you for sharing. 🌻💜💎🦄🌼

This just got the tears flowing :)

Dani is so vulnerable it’s refreshing!

I had just ordered Dani’s new book this morning when this interview came to my inbox. Timing☺️. Several gems, but “Gifts are nothing without endurability” is now written down and will be placed by my computer. Also, “I remember...” Thank you.

Wow and her talking about motherhood... WOW. True talk. I have a 17-month-old son now and IT'S HARD.

Get to know one of the best authors.....thanks....I didn’t even knew her name!!!

I heard clearly that as a writer, you don't necessarily need to wait for inspiration, before writing. I realize that since I have not taken a writing class nor have been exposed to experienced writers, I have been operating with the misconception that I, indeed, needed an inspirational moment to 'write'. I am now giving myself permission to write, write, write...on the good days and the bad. Just write!

Love this one! I’ve always felt weirdly connected to Dani Shapiro since our names are so similar (mine’s Dani DiPirro) and it was awesome to see two of my favs chatting about such great topics! 😀💗

This interview MOVED me! Thank you both

Love this interview. Really really helpful. I am a-writer-wanna-be; all the feelings that were being discussed are true. And, here I am in the middle of the night writing this, trying to find inspiration to create or write. Thank you Dani and Marie. Love you both.

Hi Marie! I totally loved this episode as I had a revelation moment about my reaction to something that happened a day before watching this interview with Dani Shapiro. I love the way you draw out deeper and relevant responses from author Shapiro. The best interview for me, surely. Thank you.

I love the “I remember...” prompt. Just thinking about using it inspires me to make time to write. Just to see what I remember. Great interview. Worth my time.

Great conversation. Thanks for bringing some understanding to the many sides of inspiration! I appreciate the many teachings! This was just what I needed...

Writing for the connection is huge and it does fall under forgetfulness with some off days. Thank you. This interview was awesome (:

Thank you for this interview! I love it❤

Hi Marie and Dani - such a brilliant episode - i made tons of notes as so much resonated from what you both said- this couldn't have come at a better time ( of Course) as I am working on my ebook- I printed off the as someone called it First Shi**Y draft yesterday and feel like the real work begins now- thanks for the gifts from you both "the demons are part of the process "no censoring"- "everyday a new indignity"- "time to make the donuts"- "I remember I remember"- 'courage"the gifts are truly noticed with love Bernie xxxx

Marie Forleo you are amazing and love your energy! This interview was so exhilarating and inspiring. I been having alot of conflicts lately about what do or how to start with writing , but somehow everything feels like its going the right way. This interview with Dani Shapiro feels like it was meant for me, I just hope thru alot of hard work and selfwork I one day will publish something. So let me end with a quote "Gifts are nothing without endurability" Dani Shapiro

Wow, thank you for your honesty, truth always gives me courage. Love and Light

Loved this interview. So validating. So grounding thank you. Productive despair.. Yes. and Courage vs. confidence.

Thank you for this interview. I need to write my story as there are signs, or I might be making them up! I love you, Marie! :)

Thank you so much for this video! As a new blogger, this is so refreshing and helpful. I also love your style Marie!

I love it Marie, so motivating! I'm a writer too, It was very useful!

So inspiring!!

Was excited to watch this video until I saw the title. Inspiration is definitely not a myth. I've almost finished my second novel mostly on the fuel of inspiration. Yes, there are times when you have to just push through a tough spot. I've been having to do that a little more often than I'd like due to almost crippling self-doubt. But I find I write best when inspired. Everything flows and needs less editing later. It being elusive at times doesn't make it a myth. And there are ways to try to trigger your inspiration as well. You don't always have to just sit around waiting for it to "strike". Listening to music, watching movies, and reading are all good inspiration triggers for me. But you could also try being out in nature, taking a walk, or even exercise (for some people). Anyhow, I respect that different writers have a different process. I'm just tired of other writers telling me that my process is wrong. Which is why I tend to stay away from writing lessons and tips. No hate toward Marie or Dani. I may even come back and watch the video when I'm better prepared to pick and choose what to take from it.

I am self employed, and the hardest part is balancing out personal and business is the hardest thing. And I am a mom, a wife, a student working on my master's. It is very hard and I get overwhelmed between project due dates and having enough time with my daughter and husband and keeping a house clean and cooking for my family 😩

what abeautiful converstion 😍👍🏼💕⭐️

"I remember" so simple but profound

Thank you so much! This has inspired me to resurrect my novel and write write write, whatever it is that ‘I remember’. :)

This was soooo GREAT!! It touched my heart. Thank you both.

Really great talk, and just what I needed to hear right now! Thank you! Much Love!!!

Phenomenal video, Marie! I learned a lot from this.

Such an awesome interview. Thank you for putting this together for us.

This was incredible. Thank you. 🙏

Awesome episode, thank you. I'm a writer, and definitely related. 💖

This was great. I really needed it.

wow! sooo can relate here! love this interview.

I remember--perfect way to awaken the brain and to always be open to the miracles around you (;

This helped me so much. Thank you :)

Luv the example that Dani Shapiro gave, from the other writer, regarding discerning the boundaries when writing about one’s experience which may involve other people...You may write about what YOU hear going on behind closed doors and/or your experience of and response to it- You may not write about what is happening behind closed doors. Did I get it right?

I needed this

Fantastic! Thank you!

Thank you. I feel inspired! :D XD

Courage is facing your fear. I hope to gain from this myth.

Q- Is it a good idea to let the family read the book before publishing? Could take a whine for me as I have 10 siblings!

No man would ever have had to do such an interview.

12:35

today I have found you

Great show, ladies. Dani's writing exercise "I remember..." really jumped out at me. I was sitting in front of my computer this past holiday season and I decided to record one song a day, like a musical sketch pad by myself. I used that concept and came up with this.ru-vid.com/group/PLj5DtL3L5a1IalZEcSA2Dx5D_sdPI6pr- I'm going to use her exercise to take the sketches to another level. Thank you so much for sharing your perspective.

Omg her answers are so sharp reminds me of Ben Shapiro

Marie! Do you offer internships?

It's courage not inspiration that makes our book a reality.

Together we All Can Ride ON THE RIGHT ROAD INTO THE FUTURE OF GREATNESS WITH A GOOD HEART LEADING THE WAY THROUGH LOVE PEACE AND me TERESA Evans Together we All Can Ride ON THE RIGHT ROAD INTO THE FUTURE OF GREATNESS

The what do you do question should be banned.

1st...!!