
Writing can be an act of transformation, self-discovery, and empowerment. In a recent discussion between Kyra Schaefer, CEO of As You Wish Publishing, and Elias Patras, intuitive motivator, author, and workshop facilitator, the power of writing as a healing and creative tool came to life. Here are some highlights and insights from their conversation to inspire healing through writing.
1. Writing as a Tool for Self-Discovery
Elias shares that writing helped him uncover hidden aspects of himself, especially during challenging times. Whether it was journaling through his high school struggles or navigating his divorce, writing provided clarity and connection to his inner truth.
For Elias, writing isn’t just about telling a story; it’s about acknowledging where you’ve been and where you’re headed. He describes it as a bridge between the mind, heart, and soul. Kyra echoes this, emphasizing how writing can help “close the loop” on emotions and thoughts, offering a cathartic release and new perspectives.
2. Overcoming the Fear of Writing
Many aspiring writers grapple with self-doubt and impostor syndrome. Elias recalls the fears that surfaced while writing his first book: Who am I to write this? Will anyone read it? His advice? “All it takes is someone to believe in you—and that someone is you.”
Kyra adds that even experienced authors face fears, such as hitting the “publish” button. The key is to push through and remember that imperfection is part of the process. “Every book has a mistake,” she says. “Done is better than good.”
3. The Healing Power of Writing
Writing can be especially powerful for those processing trauma or struggling with self-esteem challenges. Elias shares how writing shifted his perspective from seeing himself as a victim to becoming a narrator of his own life. He found healing in telling his story and reflecting on its lessons, transforming pain into resilience.
Kyra suggests exercises to deepen the healing potential of writing, such as writing letters to your younger self or viewing your past experiences through the lens of compassion.
4. Channeling Creativity Through Writing
Both Elias and Kyra highlight the magic of letting go and trusting the process. Elias describes moments of automatic writing where the words flowed effortlessly, often surprising him upon rereading. He advises writers to allow their creativity to take the lead, without overthinking or second-guessing.
Kyra points to practices like morning pages—a technique from The Artist’s Way—to unlock creative insights and ideas. Writing freely without judgment can reveal hidden gems and spark inspiration.
5. Writing as a Collaborative and Transformative Experience
Kyra and Elias emphasize the importance of community and collaboration in writing. They discuss their upcoming retreat, where participants will not only explore their creative potential but also contribute to a collaborative book project. This unique experience combines personal growth with the opportunity to become a published author.
Your Story Matters
As Kyra and Elias conclude, they remind us that everyone has a story worth sharing. Writing can be a deeply personal act of self-expression, but it also has the power to inspire and connect with others. “If it’s happened to you, and you’ve grown through it, someone else needs to hear it,” Elias says.
Ready to Start Your Writing Journey?
If you’re inspired to explore the transformative power of writing, consider joining the "Express Your Soul Through Writing" Retreat in April. Set in the serene Mechanicsville, Iowa, this retreat offers the perfect environment to unlock your creative potential, heal through writing, and connect with a supportive community.
For more guidance on self-publishing, check out Kyra’s Publishing Made Easy class, designed to empower authors with the tools and confidence to bring their stories to life.
Start your writing journey today—because your voice matters, and the world is ready to hear your story.