This report describes how I developed and use simple creative writing methods in the education of nurses and other health professionals. I outline key aspects of my approach and tell the story of how and why I came to develop it. I tell the story ‘warts and all’ explaining where the ideas came from how I coped with obstacles and what I did on the many occasions I felt completely out of my depth. You will find examples of creative writing exercises that you can follow for your own interest or with your students and I will point to the literature that provides the theoretical context for the approach. I hope the report will prompt you to think about using creative approaches in teaching and I hope it will give you the confidence to experiment as you develop your own pedagogical approach.