Unlock the Secret Writing Hacks Joe Denicholas Swears By—Are You Ready to Transform Your Creativity?

Who are you?

My name is Joseph DeNicholas, I am a therapist and author residing near Boulder, CO.

What do you write?

I write exclusively about mental health and wellness. I started writing because I noticed I was having the same conversations with clients in my therapy practice. Having those conversations didn’t seem like a great use of therapy time, so I started writing the information down and just handing it to people as needed. They loved it and asked for more, and “more” became the book I just published. Though there are hard days, as with almost any job, I do love my work, and I love writing about mental wellbeing. I am very lucky in that I am able to derive meaning and purpose from what I do every day.

Where do you write?

I write where I’m most comfortable — my home office which is full of books, Buddhist statues and artwork, and neon signs from Chicago sports teams. I typically prefer to write on a computer, though I’ve been known to frequently dictate into my phone when I’m out and about — because that’s where some of the best ideas pop up! I use AI to help me phrase things or evaluate a piece in a certain way, but never for original work. I find that AI struggles to produce original and innovative content. I think it’s a decent writing assistant, but not much more (for now).

When do you write?

I write in the morning to early afternoon because I find that is the best time for my mind — most clear, present, and creative. I don’t pay attention to time limits, word counts, or deadlines, I just write for as long as this brain is able to produce quality content. I know when to stop because I can feel it — a subtle sensation that signals my brain is done for the day. In my former career in electronics, I was subjected to more arbitrary deadlines than is good for anyone, so I’m done with those. The work will get done when it gets done, and not a second sooner.

Why do you write?