Success Points Highlights

Patience: The Invisible Skill That Builds Every Writing Career

Patience: The Invisible Skill That Builds Every Writing Career

In this inspiring piece, Clay Stafford explores patience as the hidden foundation of every successful writing career. Through insight, encouragement, and practical advice, he reminds writers that progress happens quietly, through consistent effort and long-term devotion to the craft—one word, one page, one day at a time.

Build a Platform: Developing a Presence That Connects

Build a Platform: Developing a Presence That Connects

A writer’s platform isn’t about shouting to be heard—it’s about connection. In this insightful piece, Clay Stafford reframes platform-building as an act of service and authenticity. Discover how to define who you are, what you stand for, and why your voice matters to build genuine relationships that last.

Show, Don’t Tell: Use Sensory Details to Immerse Readers in Your Story

Show, Don’t Tell: Use Sensory Details to Immerse Readers in Your Story

“Show, don’t tell” isn’t just a writing cliché—it’s the heartbeat of immersive storytelling. In this piece, Clay Stafford explores how sensory details, specificity, and subtext transform simple narration into a living experience. Learn how to make readers feel your story, not just read it.

Write a Strong Synopsis: Practice Writing Effective Summaries of Your Work for Agents and Publishers

Write a Strong Synopsis: Practice Writing Effective Summaries of Your Work for Agents and Publishers

A synopsis isn’t just a summary—it’s proof that you understand story. Learn how to craft clear, compelling synopses that demonstrate mastery of structure, pacing, and emotional arc. From query letters to full submissions, this guide walks you through the process of distilling your story to its most powerful essence.

Reading to Write: Why Great Writers Are Always Great Readers & How to Be Both

Reading to Write: Why Great Writers Are Always Great Readers & How to Be Both

Great writers are always great readers—and not by accident. Clay Stafford explores how reading with purpose strengthens a writer’s craft, voice, and imagination. Learn to turn every book into a classroom, expand your creative vocabulary, and transform reading into an essential part of your writing practice.