As a poet, you already put your very best into every poem you write. But is it possible to become even better? At The WriteLight Group, we believe poetry is a living, evolving craft—and there’s always room to grow. Here are five ideas you can try right now to strengthen your voice and become a more confident, skilled poet.
Read.
You became a poet because you love poetry. Take time each day to read the work of your peers. Not only will this remind you why you fell in love with poetry in the first place, but buying poetry collections and literary journals helps support other writers in the community. You’ll also stay informed on current trends, forms, and stylistic shifts that are shaping today’s poetic landscape.
Borrow.
No place can open your mind to new ideas quite like a library. Get a membership to your local branch and dive into their poetry section—you might discover voices and styles you’ve never considered. Many libraries also offer access to current literary magazines, which can be a great way to explore what journals are publishing now (and help you determine where your own work might fit). If you’re thinking about next steps for your own poems, our post on How To Publish Your Poems offers a helpful breakdown.
Explore.
Step outside your poetic comfort zone. If you typically write in free verse, try a strict form like a villanelle or a sonnet. Or experiment with visual poetry, spoken word, or hybrid forms. Stretching your boundaries might unlock surprising new directions in your writing—and sometimes, a change in form leads to a change in confidence. If you’re feeling stuck or hesitant to take risks, you might find a boost in our guide From Fear To Freedom: How To Stop Holding Back Your Writing.
Connect.
Go beyond the page by connecting with other poets. Join a local writing group, attend open mics, or simply support poets at readings and events by buying their books. Hearing how others approach craft and revision can offer valuable insight—and sometimes, even a short conversation with another poet can inspire your next great line.
Dream.
Challenge your creativity by tapping into your subconscious. Keep a notebook near your bed and jot down your dreams or middle-of-the-night thoughts as soon as you wake up. These fleeting images and emotions often contain raw, honest material that can lead to compelling poetry. And when it’s time to polish those new poems, make sure your revisions are clean and confident—our article on How To Master Proofreading Marks in Microsoft Word can help make the editing process less intimidating.
Becoming a better poet isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s also about staying open, curious, and committed to your voice. Whether you’re dreaming on the page, editing a tricky line, or finally getting ready to share your work, every step counts. For more ways to grow as a writer, check out the rest of our author blog or explore how The WriteLight Group can support you with expert feedback, publishing insight, and a community that truly gets it. Your next poetic breakthrough might be closer than you think.
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