Many writers are writing books or articles with a purpose. Perhaps the book will help your business. Perhaps the stories will help others. Perhaps the story is one that you just feel must be told, whether it’s fiction or non-fiction.
I understand this, and know that it’s good to have a clear motivation for writing. Often we need to stay connected with this motivation as a way to keep the inner critic at bay.
But when working with writers, I always invite them to pay attention to the experience of writing. What does writing do for you now? Despite any future payoff, how does writing impact your life?
Many people feel a sense of satisfaction. Others feel revitalized by their writing. Many of us adore the feeling of going somewhere in our minds, of using our imagination to transcend the mundane.
There are a million reasons to write or create. You are entitled to have whatever reason motivates you.
And you’re also allowed to do it just because you like it. Because it feels good. Not because it will make you rich, famous or respected. Just because it’s fun.
This week, I invite the kind witness into your creative practice. Simply notice how you feel when you are creating. Notice how you feel afterward. Be aware of what it’s like when you don’t create or feel connected to your creative work.
In my class The Devoted Writer, at the end of each writing session, I invite writers to jot three words that describe how that session was for them. This simple reflective practice helps them see exactly what the writing does for them. Try this and see what you notice.
I’d love to know – even if it’s just a few words – why you create. Share a comment below.
Hi Cynthia!
Yesterday while driving home from my studio my brain was on overdrive with ideas. This often happens to me. The middle of the night, first thing in the morning, in the shower…
My Ah Ha moment yesterday was when I realized that the ONLY time my brain quiets down from my barrage of new ideas is when I am making art or writing (usually about art or the creative process).
Some people may think, why how wonderful to always have ideas!
I am here to tell you that for me, the wonderful is when I can quiet down my brain and play with my materials. My soul is at work while my hands are busy making art.
That feeling is so much more wonderful that the idea soup in my brain. That is why I create.
Suzanne,
Your comment is one of a mature artist/writer – one who recognizes that a plethora of ideas isn’t necessarily a good thing. That making things is where true satisfaction lies, not in having a bunch of ideas.
You’ve so wonderfully expressed what making things can do for us – generate a sweet stillness where we can rest the brain and focus on what’s in front of us. What a gift!
I’m grateful for your comment and happy for you that you have a creative practice that nourishes you. 🙂
i write every day, and for many different reasons.
but my favorite form of writing? journaling. because i adore the process.
i like the feel of the pen in my hand, and the magic that takes place when words-that-work-together suddenly appear on the once-blank page. i like the aesthetics of my handwriting, and the way my inner voice shines through when i reread the entry. i like the calming ritual i’ve established with my journal and morning coffee each day.
thank you for a beautiful article and inspiring exercise, cynthia.
Hi April!
So beautifully expressed, your practice! I have the same feeling of wonder and joy when I see a drawing or painting appear on paper from my own hand and heart. It’s like magic!
Thanks for sharing your ritual with us here. I love it. And I appreciate your feedback and am glad this sparked inspiration for you. 🙂
I adore you Cynthia, Thank you.
You are such a HUGE part of why I write. Your words, teachings, heart and encouragement, and your own example help me to stay present and focused and to keep inviting myself into my own delight.
I love to write because I understand myself better when I do. If I ever struggle or feel confused, I will write about it. I also love to write because it feels like a wonderful mystery (or caper!) I like to find out how it all works out.
I also like to write because there is nothing that feels quite as exhilarating. Well, riding a roller coaster, but that is over so fast.
Thank you for what you do,
Hugs,
Robin
Oh Robin!
I am so glad I am a positive influence on your writing! You write so beautifully and with such courage and authenticity.
It can be exhilarating, can’t it! So glad you feel that.
And thank you for what you do! You’ve given me a lot of support as well, and I am grateful.
Hi Cynthia,
Thank God for you!
I love your enthusiasm about writing and creating. When I see your
photograph of paints and pencils, I want to climb in the picture stick my hands in the soft paints and wiggle, twirl and pull my colorful fingers across butcher paper smiling and giggling wildly like a free child.
Blessings,
Sagoree
Thank you, Steva!
I know what you mean about all those art supplies. They are such fun toys for creative people to let loose and enjoy.
Blessings back to you – I am glad you are in my world. 🙂