Today's GUEST BLOG comes from Susan Winters, who works, writes and dances salsa in Reno, Nevada. She gives great coaching and writing advice, so feel free to ask questions here or visit her blog.
Susan's novella, Mixed Blessings is now available from Amazon. For more musings and interviews check out her blog http://createontheside.wordpress.com/
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A crisis often leaves us physically and
emotionally drained making routine tasks seem impossible. If you’ve taken time off from your regular
job to handle the situation, you might be tempted to set aside writing
endeavors until life returns to normal.
Bear in mind “normal” may not be on your bus route for a long time.
When you’re broadsided by the unexpected,
change gears, reduce speed, but don’t completely slam on the brakes. Even with a reduced writing schedule you
maintain a link to the world beyond the crisis.
That does not mean going to the other extreme abandoning your loved ones
to the whims of fate, while you flirt with your muse.
Focus on smaller scale projects you can
complete in a reasonable timeframe.
Think minipiece instead of masterpiece.
To have control over a single thing during a time of tumultuous
uncertainty is empowering. Consider
experimenting with a different styles or genre—only if the variety inspires
you. If the thought of breaking into
poetic verse makes you anxious-don’t do it.
Other activities to do while you wait for
the storm to pass:
·
Research
potential markets for your work.
·
Reacquaint
yourself with writers who inspire you.
How did they handle the challenges in their lives?
·
Organize
your work space, sort through working files.
·
Review
the fundamentals of your craft.
·
Update
your on-line networks.
What strategies have worked best for you
while in crisis mode?
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Thanks, Susan, for a great blog post! I know personally that writing kept my sanity when I was providing eldercare for my MIL, who has dementia. That was a challenging time, with a lot of anxiety attacks. But whenever I was down, I put my head into a story. In fact, I produced a book (An Eye For Danger) which got me into a new genre, romantic suspense, and I'm publishing the book to Kindle in July. So good things can come out of tough experiences.
Moreover, during that time and when my dog, Bo, died early this year, my novel critique group helped me focus my energies. So I also see how our community of writers empower us to handle to rough times, whether they give a shoulder to cry on, or assign tasks to keep you busy and forward your career. We have to all stick together in this business, personally and professionally!
Cheers,
The Editor Devil
