I attended the Sandia Starforgers Retreat last month, where one of our fantastic instructors led the group in a few exercises. Somehow we got into the habit of cheering for the small things people wrote or decided in response to those exercises. It was spontaneous, but it felt right, even when the specific achievements were […]
Remembering to Celebrate the Small Wins Read More »
I’ve been writing something by hand. Two hours a week, fountain pen on notebook paper, just following my characters as they explore a mysterious place. When I started, the only thing I had was the setting, and even that was a bare sketch. The characters have slowly taken shape as I’ve gone on. The scenario
Writing Just for Fun Read More »
The reasons it’s especially hard to be an artist right now are the same reasons we all have to keep trying.
Finding my Artistic Footing in These Uncertain Times Read More »
Thinking about quitting can be a healthy thought exercise, whether or not you actually do it.
On Considering Quitting Read More »
One person’s example of dealing with a creative block. Also, politics.
Writers Block and the Elephant in the Room Read More »
I had plans for my blog in December. I was actually really excited to talk about how I go about reviewing my past performance in setting new goals, because I think I’ve learned some useful things about that over the years. But apparently, my theme for all of 2024 is that sometimes you have to
Any extended project, from writing a book to fighting fascism, needs to be respected as a long-haul effort. You’ve got to take breaks. You’ve got to safeguard your strength. And you’ve got to find joy and hope to keep you going. I’ve collected a couple of things that have helped me, in hopes that one of them might help you, too.
Things to Get You Through Read More »
Whooo boy. How’s your anxiety this week? Weirdly, mine’s the lowest it’s been in months. Maybe because there’s really nothing left for me to do. (For the moment – additional activism comes later.) I’ve supported the candidates and causes I care most about. I’ve voted. I’ve encouraged a few other people to vote, and talked
How I Plan to Survive Election Week Read More »
The TRICKIEST thing about self-care is that your needs will change from one situation to the next, and it can sometimes take a bit of work to adapt to the changing situation.
What Does Self-Care Look Like? Read More »
Perfectionism is a like a terrible manager, and gets in the way of actual productivity. Learn to fight it by seeing yourself as a work in progress.
Combating Perfectionism with a Mindset Shift Read More »