Stage 1: Dream
Habits, Mindset & Planning
Every successful writing journey begins with a clear plan. Stage 1 is where you step back and ask the big questions: What do you want to write? Who are you writing for? What purpose will your words serve? Whether you're creating poetry, nonfiction, fiction, or a blog-based business, this stage helps you clarify your goals, define your audience, and set realistic expectations for your writing career.
In this stage, you’ll explore tools for goal setting, planning timelines, organizing ideas, and outlining your path forward. These resources help you avoid overwhelm, stay focused, and build a strong foundation for every stage to come.
Journaling & Mindset Tools
Daily writing isn’t just about word count—it’s also about clarity, consistency, and emotional well-being. Journaling tools help writers build discipline, track their thoughts, and strengthen creative mindset habits. Whether you’re capturing story ideas, reflecting on your day, or managing stress, these digital journaling platforms support your writing life at every stage.
750words.com
A private, minimalist journaling platform inspired by “Morning Pages.” Great for developing a consistent daily writing habit without distractions.
https://750words.com
Apple Journal
A free iOS app that auto-generates journaling prompts using your location, music, and photo activity. Great for memory-keeping and reflecting on moments.
https://www.apple.com/ios/journal
Day One
An award-winning journaling app with end-to-end encryption, daily prompts, media uploads, and syncing across iOS, macOS, and Android.
https://dayoneapp.com
Daylio
Combines mood tracking with daily journaling in a quick-entry, visual format. Ideal for writers managing emotional wellness or building self-awareness habits.
https://daylio.net
Diarium
One-time purchase journaling app with multimedia support, calendar integration, and local data storage. Great for users who prefer offline tools.
https://diariumapp.com
Journey.Cloud
A beautifully designed journaling platform for mobile and desktop. Offers guided prompts, video and audio entries, and a secure cloud-sync.
https://journey.cloud/membership/?ref=DeborahAnnMartin
Penzu
A secure, customizable online journal with strong encryption. Ideal for writers who want digital privacy and flexible formatting options.
https://penzu.com
Reflection.app
AI-powered journaling tool with guided questions, mood insights, and personal growth tracking. Includes a generous affiliate program (30% recurring revenue).
https://www.reflection.app/affiliate-partner
Physical Journals
Some writers prefer pen and paper over digital apps and for good reason. Handwritten journaling can slow the mind, deepen reflection, and spark creativity. These affiliate-friendly physical journals help writers are develop intentional daily habits while offering beautiful, gift-worthy designs.
Evergreen Journals
Hardcover guided journals designed to increase productivity and mindfulness with structured prompts, progress tracking, and elegant layouts.
https://www.evergreenjournals.com/pages/affiliate-program
Intelligent Change – Five Minute Journal
Best-selling gratitude journal used by writers and creatives worldwide. Promotes mindset shifts with quick morning and evening reflections.
https://www.intelligentchange.com/pages/ic-partner-program
Promptly Journals
Linen-bound journals designed for healing, grief, legacy storytelling, and family memories. A favorite for authors writing through life transitions.
https://promptlyjournals.com/pages/affiliate-program
Story of My Life Journal
Memory-keeping journals designed to help individuals capture their legacy, personal stories, and family history through prompts and guided storytelling.
https://storyofmylifejournal.com/affiliate-program/
Three Six Five Journals
Daily guided journals with minimalist design that help users reflect, refocus, and build sustainable journaling habits over a full year.
https://threesixfivejournals.com/pages/affiliate/
Writer Communities & Memberships
Writing doesn’t have to be a solo journey. These communities offer encouragement, expert training, submission opportunities, job leads, feedback, and support from fellow writers. Whether you journal, freelance, publish indie books, or just want to grow your craft—these platforms help you stay connected and inspired.
Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi)
A global nonprofit supporting indie authors with publishing advice, watchdog services, contract guidance, and exclusive discounts on publishing tools.
https://www.allianceindependentauthors.org
Authors Publish
Free membership platform offering weekly submission calls, publisher spotlights, and practical publishing advice for short fiction, poetry, and nonfiction writers.
https://www.authorspublish.com
Freelance Writers Den
Private membership community offering workshops, accountability, job listings, and business support for freelance writers at all levels.
https://freelancewritersden.com/affiliates/
Independent Author Network
A paid membership site that helps indie authors increase visibility through directory listings, book features, promotional tools, and award contests.
https://www.independentauthornetwork.com
International Association for Journal Writing
Membership hub for journal writers offering guided prompts, themed courses, expert interviews, and a supportive community focused on personal growth through writing.
https://www.iajw.org/affiliate-program/
Scribophile
Highly active peer critique community for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writers. Offers in-depth feedback, writing contests, forums, and a karma-based exchange system.
https://www.scribophile.com
