The best way to become a writer is by becoming a well-rounded, healthy, motivated person. If your life is in order, you are much more likely to be creative and focused. "Sharpening the Pencil" is a collection of essays bent on reshaping your life in order to destroy the possibility of writer's block. This book can teach you ways to set powerful creative goals that give you writing projects to strive for. It suggests inventive tips and tricks to generate creativity when you're feeling boring and commonplace. The book stresses the importance of a healthy diet and the negative effects of caffeine and alcohol on your natural writing ability. "Sharpening the Pencil" can instruct you to be more productive, relaxed and happy. Author Bryan Cohen's motivational and idea-rich books have sold over 2,500 copies and his inspirational website has had over 100,000 visitors. Cohen's goal is to inspire you into action with his words so that you can be the writer you have always dreamed of. In addition, he wants you to have a fulfilling and joyful life and he hopes "Sharpening the Pencil" can be the first step in a lifelong, positive direction.