How to find peace with your writing path

Five Ways to Help Ease your Creative Mind

I posted a thought on Twitter the other day to encourage the writing community. I didn’t think my tweet would resonate with anyone, let alone people liking the photo I shared, which was a trail I had gone on that past weekend.( photo below) It reminded me of a writer’s journey, with its winding path and the sliver of sunshine filtering through the tall cedars and poplars. It made me think of hope and encouragement, seeing the light come into full view when the trail ended. 

The words I shared? Your writing path is unique to you. Embrace the process.

Sometimes posting what we’re hoping to hear is the best motivator when we’re feeling low. It’s like a little voice in our head is pushing us to continue our journey even when we don’t feel so brave. 
​
Writing is my passion, and when surrounded by a community of writers all wanting the same goal, it can be disheartening to see fellow writers accomplish the very thing you want. The truth is, every writer has their own path, and it’s something to remember when feeling discouraged. It’s easy to say, but for years, I was disappointed and convinced myself I was a terrible writer, telling myself that if I was good at what I do, I would be published. 
As creatives, we are sensitive to our emotions and the people around us, so I think it’s easy to mislead ourselves into thinking we’re not good when, in fact, it often comes down to timing and, as some say, luck. 

​
















​If you’re looking to find peace with your writing path, here are five ways to help you through it.

Get support from a friend.
A creative life can be lonely. Some of us don’t have cheerleaders at home to get us to the finish line. We depend on social media groups or friends in the same profession who understand the process and energy it takes to get to the next step. If you have support from a friend—ongoing, like a BFF who emails you back, returns phone calls, and responds to your Instagram memes. Someone you can connect with and who’s in your corner makes a huge difference. There’s nothing like communicating with someone who gets you.

Don’t give up.
It’s hard work. Everyone’s output is different, and we come from different backgrounds and experiences, so it’s only natural for us to walk our own paths. It’s what makes us unique, and we should embrace it and give ourselves grace through the process. Sometimes breaks are needed, and that’s okay. You’re doing this for you, right?
​
It’s not a competition. 
Don’t compare yourself to others. It doesn’t help your creativity. You’ll put all the energy into something that doesn’t serve you. 

---

Support each other. 
Lifting each other up and encouraging someone’s art when you truly appreciate their talent is a great way to cheer someone on. We all have days when we don’t feel successful or feel down about what we do, so offering a pat on the back goes a long way.

Take a break.
Take a moment to enjoy an experience; not only does it give you a break from your craft, but it gives you something to write about.
The best creative thoughts are the ones without a computer. Experiencing nature is one of the reasons I love being outside. I think it has to do with the relaxation and letting thoughts flow freely. Taking a break doesn’t mean you’re not working. 

Your writing path is unique to you; it may give you the peace of mind to write from your heart instead of keeping up with someone else. It’s not a competition. It’s about supporting other creatives. Embracing the process means not being hard on yourself. Work hard on your art, but enjoy what you do. You’re creating because it makes you feel good, and you have something to share. ​

​*opinions are my own