Trying (Failing?) to Stay Creatively Motivated During the Pandemic

Photo by Joshua Chun on Unsplash

Remember how you once dreamed of aimless free time—solitary or otherwise—to jumpstart that novel, revise that troublesome chapter, or do a little necessary research? If only we had more time to work on our craft.

CUT TO… the couch, remote in hand.

This isn’t a guilt trip. Everyone is understandably a little dazed, unfocused, distracted (especially if kids are home full-time), or simply too restless these uncertain days. More likely, it’s an emotional merry-go-round. indoors I get it. Even my “Well at least I can get to that stack of pleasure reading!” silver lining resulted in little more than cursory magazine flipping and endless scrolling of social media.

But at some point, for mental and creative health, you’ll need to pause the Netflix binging (Tiger King will still be there, I promise), the anxiety-inducing 24/7 news obsession, and social media (yes, we’re ALL a little/lot stir-crazy).

For better or worse, writing is a solitary pursuit. To ultimately share and connect with many, you first have to retreat—even if it’s just 15 to 60 carved-out minutes a day. (This is why they call it a “writers retreat,” not a “writers vacation.”)

I think it’s particularly beneficial during these uncomfortable days for us to acknowledge and use our gifts. It’s an element of control, self-expression, and discovery. What better time is there to escape to imagined worlds, examine the past and share personal stories, or explore the topics that fascinate us most? Even if in these times of global suffering they feel unimportant or trivial, there’s tenacity and pleasure in doing—in creating, in knowing, This will be important again. Or, It’s important to me. And there’s an audience awaiting who wholeheartedly agrees.

When you’re ready to share those hard-won pages with someone whose only goal is to help you present your best work—whether an editorial assessment, a full manuscript line edit, a coaching session, or whatever’s best-tailored to your needs—I’m here to assist your goal and boost its success.

Honestly, it feels good to be off the couch and back to work. I look forward to seeing what you’ve each been up to and digging in, pen in hand. Writing is solitary but the next step of expert editing is a team sport. In the meantime, stay safe and sane.

Best,

Patrick Price, AKA Ask a Book Editor