Author Interview with Author and Writing Coach Wayne South Smith

I talk to Wayne about his new book on journaling for creativity and personal growth

A few weeks back, I shared my aspirational plans for 2024 with y'all. One idea was to foster kinder self-talk through journaling and daily affirmations. Midlife has hit me like a ton of bricks, and I kind of shit-talk myself. But honestly, that’s nothing new. The subject of today’s newsletter knows that all too well.

Wayne South Smith coached me to publication with my novel in 2016. We've stayed friends. After coaching writers and editing books, he released his first book, Writing Spirit: Journaling for Creativity and Personal Growth, in November 2023. I was thrilled for him and it felt like the Big Man Above had put it in my lap at the right time, too. The pages are interwoven with memoir, which are like a permission slip for the reader to embrace vulnerability as they work through the exercises.

So what is Writing Spirit about?

It’s a sustainable, feel-good journaling practice guidebook, illuminated by stories of lessons learned from Wayne’s life and journaling practice. Each of its twelve chapters welcomes you with affirming personal stories from his life experiences (not once does he trash talk himself - impressive!) followed by a list of affirmations and journal prompts for that chapter’s theme. Some of the chapter topics include: writing practice, writing imagination, writing safety, writing fears, and writing procrastination. My favorite one is Chapter 7: “Writing Perfection.” (I think y’all know me by now. Surprised?).

I know most of you aren’t writers, but please don’t tune out. This book is for EVERYONE. If you are a human who has feelings and has ever had the urge to write about those feelings but has squashed that urge (as we tend to do many things that make us feel good as adults), Writing Spirit, a spiral notebook, and a nice pen will lift your spirit. I promise.

Wayne and I spoke about the book and his journey to publication.

What was your inspiration for writing this book?

My inspiration for writing this book was journaling daily and writing affirmations to discover better ways to shift my thinking and make better choices.  When I began to share the experiences in writing with others, I received warmth, excitement, and encouragement.  So, I wrote more.

How does it feel to publish a book after cheering on so many clients to publication?

The publishing process felt natural as I’ve guided authors to 60 books.  However, with my book, the experience elicited surprises like when I first saw the completed cover or when the proof copy arrived.  Then, I felt opulent when I unboxed 60 copies of my book. From there, I felt I was glowing from within, sporting a perpetual smile.

How does it feel to share such personal stories in a book? 

Honestly, it’s marvelous.  When I draft memoir, I write from gut truth just like I do in my journal.  I knew I would have lots of revisions, which was ideal because I wanted to push myself to be more authentic, vulnerable, and honest to inspire others with their personal journaling. 

Is this book only for writers or can anyone who wants to start a journaling practice benefit from your book?

I wrote this book for anyone who considers beginning or expanding a journaling practice. I wanted the book to be relatable to seniors, teens, and everyone in between.  I wrote to incite memories for others with a heartfelt invitation to grow their own unique way to journal. 

Do you work with writers in a group setting if they want to take their writing to a new level?

Yes, for 21 years, I have guided individuals, small workshops, and large groups in memoir, fiction, children’s books, screenwriting and other creative genres, including journaling. And I work with all experience levels. 

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from writing this book?

Over the years of writing this book, I’ve learned lots of lessons. One that comes to mind is living the realization that a journaling practice supports the writing process for publication.  Many think that it’s “just more writing,” but being able to share feelings with yourself, just for yourself, then writing affirmations to get back on track when things go awry or need a new beginning…well, it’s magical.  One fuels the other.

Would you ever write another book again?

Once the writing ended and publishing tasks were done, several candidates for next projects vied for time in my mind.  My plan is to write several more books, something in fiction, humor, perhaps a screenplay.  Maybe even a sequel to Writing Spirit.  Soon, I’ll see which idea inspires the most passion and go for it!

Wayne South Smith is a writing coach, editor, public speaker, and author. Since 2003, he has guided writers from inspiration to publication with books and other successful projects. He credits his daily journaling alongside affirmative thinking as sustaining his growth both as a writer and human.  For more, visit waynesouthsmith.com.

Buy Writing Spirit: Journaling for Creativity and Personal Growth

Do you keep a journal? If so, what’s your routine? Do you enjoy journaling prompts or do you free-write?

If you’re not a journaler, how are you not insane? Please share your secret? I think the rest of us need your secrets in the comments….