The world still turns, daily chores reset, and the news clamor more dark headlines with only pin-prints of hope. Every single passing day of this year has felt so dang long. There is always something to react to, or a reaction to swim around. It’s tiring. And I imagine you are tired too. It’s hard being creative when you think everything is burning down.
So when talking writing habits, I hope you find at least enough words to uncover a truth. May it be your inner truth; the truth of an event; or recording someone else’s truth, that all counts right now. Keep truth close to your chest and let that determine your fingers.
Write one word right now that feels stuck in you right now. Stare at it. Observe your handwriting, note the scrawl of hills and peaks. Contemplate it.
Walk away for a couple minutes or as long as the chore takes you. Then come back. And let’s stare at it some more. Break for water in, water out. Return.
That word is your current truth. It has been echoing inside of you for awhile, begging to be let out.
Now grab a piece of paper and the nearest pen. Set the timer for 8 to 10 minutes, and let your brain unleash. Write so fervently you tear the paper and the ink fades onto a pool of mess. Race against yourself. Get pissed off! You just want it to be legible enough for you to reread it, but if you can read messy handwriting, then go for it.
Right now I’m asking for your impulse to be placed directly on page. So catch it then walk away. Sounds weird, but trust me on this. Cause we want to cool down and get some distance. Go to the store and live a bit more of your life. You know where you placed that paper.
Give yourself at least 36 hours before returning. Now read it.
How badly did you cringe? What surprised you? And what is worth keeping and sharing?
Because writing will never be enough. You could pour your whole life story, emotions and fears all onto paper. And all they ever will be is words, unless you choose to turn words into actions. This little pocket note of madness contains hints to your moral code. Use that to point yourself in the right direction and keep yourself honest, while being ready to change.
Save reactions for yourself and trusted ones. Let your responses to others be measured and edited. Not everyone deserves our unedited selves, and that’s okay. But using writing as an emotional and mental springboard can really help with building your unique voice.
Strengthen that voice for making the changes necessary in your projects and your life. I think we are at the point where we need to be writing regularly to practice clear communication.
Stay golden dearies.