About Shut Up & Write!
Shut Up & Write! (SUAW) is a vibrant, global community of writers who believe in the magic of writing together. Since 2007, we’ve helped people around the world build sustainable writing habits through simple, inclusive, community-powered events. From local cafés to online Zoom rooms, SUAW sessions provide a focused hour where writers of all backgrounds can finally “show up and write.”
Our Mission & Values: At its heart, SUAW is about inclusivity, consistency, and support. We welcome everyone—from novelists and academics to bloggers and beginners—because we believe every writer can benefit from a supportive environment. Our events are free and open to all. There’s no critiquing, no pressure, and no judgement. Instead, we foster a come-as-you-are atmosphere. The goal is to help each other make progress, one quiet hour at a time.
How It Started: What began in 2007 as a few friends writing in a San Francisco café has grown into a worldwide movement. Today, SUAW hosts thousands of writing sessions across continents. Despite this growth, the core idea remains the same: a set time and place where writers commit to focusing on their work—together. This simple formula has proven remarkably effective in beating procrastination and building community.
By becoming an organizer, you’re carrying forward this mission. You’re not only carving out time for your own writing; you’re also creating a space for others to pursue their creative goals. That ripple effect—from one café table or Zoom room to a global network of writers—is the power of Shut Up & Write!