Journaling with Kayleigh — online journaling community

Keeping a journal can be so much more…

Let’s explore the world of journaling together.

Journaling is the swiss army knife of writing. It can help you with everything from keeping on top of your to-do list, to bringing generations of your family together, and processing your emotions.

In Journaling with Kayleigh we explore the many facets of journaling one month at a time, learning about a single journaler from history and applying the techniques they used in our own journals.

You’ll get access to downloadable resources, live zoom classes (and recordings), and daily discussion with other journalers like you.

Join the group now with a free 1 week trial.  

Learn more

Hello writer!

I’m Kayleigh and I help beginning writers find the habits that work for them, so they can get out of their heads and enjoy writing again.

 

Once upon a time I was a burnt-out professional in the financial services industry, dreaming about writing but never putting a word on the page. In 2008 I took a writing class down the street from my office and, little by little, started putting the pieces of my writing life together.

 

I made a lot of mistakes along the way, and wasted a lot of time listening to advice that stifled my creativity and made me feel like there must be something wrong with me because I didn’t write every day (still don’t), I couldn’t hear my characters speaking to me (oh well), and my journal entries always fizzled out after “Dear Diary” (I built a whole class around this!).

 

Today I have an MFA from Emerson College, publications and award nominations for my short stories and essays, and over ten years teaching experience in colleges and writing centers -- including that downtown writing center where I took my first writing class all those years ago.

 

Now, I’m passionate about helping blocked writers like I used to be stop beating themselves up and find a path back to writing. If this sounds like you, welcome.

 

 I’m so glad you’re here.

Kayleigh Shoen, writing coach and creative writing teacher, smiling

What People Are Saying

  • “I loved this class. I didn't know what to expect as I've never taken a writing class before and work in a corporate environment. I found the class to be very energizing. Kayleigh is an excellent instructor and made the time fun and educational.”

    Student in “Jumpstart Your Writing” at Grub Street

  • “Kayleigh was an amazing instructor and truly built a positive culture and sense of community. Each class was helpful leaving me energized and empowered to write and come back each week with updates. I’m so sad it’s over!”

    Student in “Jumpstart Your Novel” at Grub Street

  • “I learned so much about the writing process. Kayleigh is an excellent teacher! She gave us information, taught us about the process, and gave us lots of opportunity for writing practice. I highly recommend Kayleigh as a teacher!”

    Student in “Writing Fiction from Real Life” at Arlington Community Education

  • "Her warm welcome extended to a comfortable atmosphere that encouraged all participants to contribute. "

    Student from Arlington Community Education

  • “Kayleigh does a great job designing classes and selects a great range of specific literary works that lead to good discussions. She is also a skilled and non-intimidating facilitator-instructor.” … “We all laugh and learn from one another!”

    Student in “Read & Discuss: Best American Short Stories” and other classes at Arlington Community Education

Featured Class

Visit Classes page for complete list of upcoming classes.

Free Draft Generator

Class offered through Grub Street Writers Center.

Whether you’re brand new to creative writing or a writer in search of a quick creative boost, our Free Draft Generator Sessions are a great place to start the seeds of new writing projects, connect with other writers, and discover the vibrant community at GrubStreet waiting to support your literary journey. In this one hour session, you’ll have the opportunity to respond to engaging writing prompts, share your work with others, and receive information about upcoming GrubStreet workshops and events to help you further develop your writing skills and pursue your creative goals.

Wednesday, Aug 26 | 6 – 7pm ET |  Grub Street, Boston Seaport | FREE but requires registration. | Register at: https://grubstreet.org/seminar/free-draft-generator-shoen-su26