Writing is a deeply personal and creative process. Yet, like any habit, it can fall into patterns that limit our growth. If you’ve been writing the same way for years, you might be missing out on fresh perspectives and rich storytelling. Whether you’re just starting your writing journey or are already several books in, experimenting with your style can take your writing to new heights.

We all have our comfort zones for writing. Maybe you’re someone who sits down with just a vague idea, lets it marinate for a while, and then allows the words to pour out freely. That’s a beautiful and intuitive way to write. Many writers describe this kind of flow as “channeling,” where it almost feels like the story is coming through them, not from them.

I’ve used that method, too. But over the years, I’ve also learned the value in switching gears and trying different approaches to keep my creativity alive and evolving. If you’re ready to stretch, bend, and strengthen your style, here are five powerful ways to challenge your writing voice and breathe new life into your work:

1. The Power of Structure: Mind Maps and Blueprints

When I first began writing over a decade ago, I started with structure. My go-to method was using a mind map. I’d begin with a central theme in the middle of a page, just one core idea, and then branch out with bubbles around it, each one holding a supporting idea or concept. This helped me see the bigger picture clearly and gave me direction. Then, I created a blueprint for each chapter or article. This blueprint included:

• Why I was writing it (my purpose)
• What important points I wanted the reader to leave with
• What emotions I wish to stir in the reader
• A clear intro, middle, and conclusion

This system became the nucleus of my writing, especially for the “A Journey of Riches” series, which has now grown to 39 published books. I also used it when co-writing books with a single author. Having that clear structure gave me a sense of stability and focus.

2. Challenging Yourself to Grow: Mixing Up Your Style

In 2018, I started challenging myself to break away from just one writing style. I wanted to grow, to explore different methods. So I experimented. Sometimes I started with only a simple idea and no actual plan—just letting the words carry the narrative forward organically. Other times, I returned to structure with an outline that included a beginning, middle, and lasting impression.

These days, I use a blend of both. I enjoy having a solid outline—with a strong theme and a few main points (usually about five per chapter)—but I also allow space for spontaneity, emotion, and flow. And here’s the thing, you can do this too.

3. Noticing Patterns: Crutch Words and Sentence Style

Every writer has habits. I noticed mine when I re-read my early drafts: I used the word “realized” over and over. Another was “and”, which led to long, run-on sentences.

At first, I’d think, “That’s okay, the editor will fix it.” But then I understood that self-awareness in your writing helps you grow more confident and intentional. Notice your own go-to words. Are there certain phrases or sentence structures you rely on too much? Switch them up. Add punctuation. Try shorter sentences for impact.

Some people avoid semicolons (Malcolm Gladwell, author of Outliers, famously said you should never use them). But I say, who makes these rules anyway? Let your unique voice come through and make your choices deliberately.

4. Refining the First Draft: It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect

When writing your first draft, take the pressure off. It doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to exist. Some of my early drafts were what I call a “dog’s breakfast”, messy, unpolished, raw. I’d pour everything out, long sentences, no punctuation, thoughts flying everywhere. But that’s okay. You can come back later and refine it. Add more depth. Use sensory language. Include what things smell like, what they feel like, what they sound like. This makes your writing more vivid and alive.

Other times, less is more. Add brevity. Trim the fat. Find the rhythm.

5. Writing for One Person: Get Personal and Intentional

One of the most powerful shifts I made in my writing was to imagine writing to just one person, like I was catching up with a close friend over coffee.

Generations of writers have passed down this tip. I first read it in the classic book On Writing Well by William Zinsser (published in 1976). It helps you stay conversational, engaging, and emotionally connected. At the same time, get really clear on your why. Why are you writing this piece? Who is it for? What do you want the reader to feel, understand, or do afterward?

Simon Sinek’s book Start With Why is a great resource for this. Having a strong sense of purpose will pull you through the tough days, those moments when you feel like everything you’ve written is garbage (yes, even the best writers have those days).

So, learn from the Greats, but stay true to you. Sometimes, I would model my writing after other authors. I once wrote a chapter inspired by the voice of Paulo Coelho (The Alchemist) but added my own flavor to it. That was a fun exercise, but the key is always to return to your voice. You’re not trying to copy someone, you’re experimenting, learning, growing.

Rick Rubin, legendary music producer (he worked with artists like Adele, Jay-Z, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers), shares a powerful idea in his book The Creative Act: A Way of Being. He talks about changing small things, like how artists hear themselves in their headphones, to spark entirely new results in their music. The same goes for writing. A small tweak in your process can open a whole new world of expression.

So here’s the big takeaway, there’s no right or wrong way to create. There’s only your way. But challenging yourself to explore different paths can make you a better, more confident, and more connected writer. Whether you use mind maps, outlines, channeling, personal letters, or messy first drafts, just keep showing up. Write with intention, with heart and with vision.

And always remember: every masterpiece begins with a single word. Stay inspired, keep creating, and may your words light the path for someone else.

Onwards and Upwards!