Or…an alternate title could be Things That Might Help Creative People in Times of Stress
I’ve searched far and wide for an encouraging essay or article to share with friends and my students during this time but came up empty. So, I decided to write one. Granted this is obviously just one writer’s point of view. But, I think now more than ever we can all use the encouragement.
For some of us writing is a life line, it kinda keeps us feeling human. For me, if I’m not “making” I can’t organize my anxiety and it takes over. When I’m knee deep into drafting a project or researching and outlining it, this act keeps my brain humming along, making me more productive in other parts of my life.
So, obviously these won’t be helpful to everyone. But here are some things I’m trying to get my brain back on track (and my stories, too). I’m trying and failing at most of these, by the way. But having a list makes me feel like they might be attainable at some point.
1. Write it down. Historically, it could be pretty useful to note the mundane stuff that will make history books more interesting. What was it like for you today? How did you juggle your life and expectations? Also, writing down your daily experiences can help emotionally as well.
2. READ. Period. Read books that bring you joy, that remind you how much you love words and how stories can transform the world. Yeah, that’ll make you remember why you wanted to write that story. If you don’t have time to read novels, read short stories or poetry! They take less time but can transfix your brain for a bit. Poetry makes you smarter. It’s true.
3. Get dressed. I know, and I am guilty of this too. But the occasional shower and getting dressed in the morning is very helpful for everyone. It’s about setting up some sort of schedule.
4. Give yourself a break. But also put social media at a distance. It’s stressful, and no there isn’t a new article that’s going to change your experience drastically. Give it a break. Your anxiety will decrease and your ability to focus on that story will increase. I think yoga (By Adriene) or exercise if you are able, or doing some sort of mindful meditation is helpful. But also just putting down your phone for a hour will do wonders for the brain space.
5. If you can’t write right now, read and do research! Hang onto the exciting experience of falling down endless roads of story information! Use the online library and the interwebs. Do deep dives into history, politics, or other random bits of information so that you can give your brain a clue at what you’d like it to do.
6. Clean with limitations. I see you, wiping, washing, etc. and I applaud you. But try to set up time limits for the distractions like laundry and cleaning. Maybe set a schedule. Working at home is hard even during non-pandemic times!
7. Try to find a tiny corner that is facing something you don’t mind looking at. Use headphones, a candle whatever else can trick your brain into thinking it’s in some glamourous office (not the little corner in the closet—whatever!). Just make it up. Find a room, nook, cranny, closet, corner of your own. When you’re there, give yourself permission to just be a writer. Take comfort in ceremony.
8. And, a lot of us are juggling so much that we can’t actually make new words right now. Know that that’s okay. Also, writing isn’t just typing out new words (we all know that). Feed your inner writer by watching shows that you love, read snippets that you adore, read poetry (it’s short and makes you smart), throw yourself into an art project with your kid or cat or whatever. Just make sure you are kind to your artist side, and as we survive, don’t forget to try to encourage yourself to also live.
And I’m trying to remember that maybe the world needs our words and our stories. So, I’m doing what I need to do to get through this time (healthy choices mostly) and am trying to remind myself that stories will come when they can. I haven’t written a new word in ages, but I’m plotting, planning, day-dreaming.
Wishing you well.
Olivia