I'm watching snow fall in Denver as I write this.
My family and I have been on a vacation of sorts for more than a week. I've been enjoying my childhood haunts and playing with my kids. I've had a chance to finish reading a novel and start another one. A client re-configured assignments, so I've had only e-mails to draw me near to the computer. No deadlines to interfere with my focus on fun.
While the play and fun has helped to revive some of my creativity, staying in a place that is not conducive for writing for more than a week has dulled my writing abilities.
I have always had an understanding about how important it is to write regularly, but because I write regularly, I rarely have had a chance to test that understanding.
Now I have.
My writing muscles feel sluggish. My brain feels slushy.
I'm enjoying my vacation, but writing this post is making me realize how I may have to start exercising my writing muscles before returning home.
Otherwise, I may need a to take a writing vacation once I'm back from my family vacation.
Elizabeth King Humphrey is a writer and creativity coach. When she is not on vacation, Elizabeth contributes to AOL's ParentDish, she blogs at The Write Elizabeth, delving into creativity in everyday places.
Exercising the Write Muscles
Thursday, March 25, 2010
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3 comments:
I understand that to be a writer you have to be writing and disciplined about doing it regularly, but what if you feel that most of the stuff you write is not good at all. Do you give up, or pursue it until you are happy?
I feel sluggish when I do not physically excercise, but I did not realize my ability to write also diminshes each day I choose not to sit in front of that scary blank page. My brain closes down that quickly? Yep.
@Cathy - I generally pursue something until I'm happier about it. Often when I write, it is like a puzzle, if a piece feels wonky, I will play with it until I'm happier with it.
@Judaye - I like that. I never thought of my brain closing down. Next time I'm on vacation, I'd better get a "Closed" sign to hang out. (At least I know my kids will understand it...! LOL!)
Thanks for your comments!
Elizabeth
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