I don’t know about you, but I’ve slowed down a lot in the past few weeks. I find myself juggling different kinds of tasks. Instead of trying to squeeze in more meetings and emails and embark on small projects with quick wins, I’m chatting with my family more, trying out new recipes, and keeping my house much cleaner. (Also I, like apparently many others, have been using my laptop a lot more than my phone lately.)
I feel a little guilty because I’m not writing as much as I’d like. It’s nice though to know I’m not the only one. Anne R. Allen recently shared why it’s so hard to write right now, and tips for dealing. It’s worth reading the full article, and I especially liked the tips on helping readers and adjusting expectations. I’m still working on adjusting expectations, and I’d like to think I’ve done some good.
For example, some of my writing time is now devoted to dancing:
@iknowdino##Dinosaurs are the best. Big thanks to @mattsteffanina for his choreography and @pinkcandysparkles for the ##dinosaurdance inspiration. ##happyathome♬ Finesse – Cardi B Verse (Remix) [Feat. Cardi B] – Bruno Mars
As well as to mask making:
If you’ve already published some books, there are some easy ways to give back right now, such as through Smashwords’ Authors Give Back promotion.
Writer Unboxed also has some helpful advice, which includes not comparing yourself to others, and starting small. Maybe it’s helpful to get writing prompts, like via Post Deck app (I haven’t tried it yet, but it sounds intriguing). Content Marketing Institute also has some steps for an interim content marketing strategy (it’s geared more toward businesses, but could still apply).
And last, a couple more resources to stay connected to people during this time:
- “Corona Diaries: An Open-Source Platform of Personal COVID-19 Stories” on Nieman Reports
- “Making the Switch from Little Free Libraries to Little Free Pantries” on Publisher’s Weekly
