It’s been a crazy few weeks! Like something out of a book or a board game but definitely not something we expect to ever experience in real life. And for us writers it raises the question of what does creativity during coronavirus look like?
First things first- I hope everyone is staying safe and being careful out there.
Wash your hands. Practice social distancing. Follow the advice of the CDC, even if it’s not easy.
Ask for help. Help others.
We may be needing to distance ourselves physically but that doesn’t mean we can’t all be uniting together in the face of adversity.
Let’s help each other be well! And let’s be well ourselves both physically and mentally.
So amidst this global coronavirus pandemic, where does creativity fit in?
Today we’re looking at why creativity during coronavirus is important, what time management looks like during uncertain times, and tips on nurturing creativity.
3 Reasons Why Creativity is Still Important during Coronavirus
1: Times like these remind us to reflect on what’s really important in our lives
Why do you write? What are your reasons?
Those reasons may be even more important now.
2: Creativity brings rest
Call it escapism, a distraction, or what you will- books can bring rest. Stories are a coping strategy and a well needed break for us sometimes. I’m not saying we should ignore the world, but sometimes we need time to relax.
3: When times are hard, creativity is a method of hope
Books can bring hope to those who are discouraged. Art can show people that they aren’t alone. Creativity can connect us and sustain us.
4 Thoughts on Productivity in Uncertain Times
There are a lot of unknowns in the world right now.
Health and basic necessities may be in question.
So far as time management, some people have a sudden overabundance of free time and nowhere they can go. Others of us have kids homeschooling at home or may have increased responsibilities of other types.
Either way can be an adjustment. and we may need to adjust where/how creativity fits into our new “normal.”
1: Our identity is not linked with our productivity
Working from home can be an adjustment. The lack of “normal” work or goals can throw us off, and one of the first hits can be to our sense of self.
If we are used to finding our identity and self-worth through our work and accomplishments, we may be struggling a lot right now.
You are valuable and worthwhile and precious regardless of the work you do or don’t do.
That goes for work for your boss, work for yourself, and/or any writing or other creative projects.
We must have grace for ourselves.
Every day is a win. Whether things are going well or really not well at all, I hope you know that you are still amazing!
2: Have goals but be flexible
Setting goals helps us to move towards what’s really important to us. But it’s also valuable- especially right now- to be willing to be flexible in reevaluating these goals regularly to make sure they’re still reflecting our priorities and our realities of life.
For those of you with more free time than normal? Maybe it’s time to really make some big scary goals that will push you toward big results.
For those of us with added responsibilities and uncertain schedules? We may want to adjust our goals accordingly with bite-sized goals we can still work toward but that aren’t so overwhelming.
Frequent reevaluation may be needed as things continue to change!
3: Set boundaries
We don’t need to be checking the news every two minutes. REALLY.
There is value in learning and educating ourselves regarding what is going on in the world right now. But we don’t need to read every article or refresh our news pages or social media every few minutes. This is not healthy or helpful.
Boundaries look different for everyone.
Figure out what works for you and try to stick with it. I’m trying to limit my time on social media and email and channel that time into other activities… like reading and writing 🙂
4: Be patient
Things may be really hard. We need to be patient with ourselves and with others.
We may not have time or mental space for creativity right now. That’s okay. Just keep it on your radar so that we can find a place for it soon.
5 Tips on Nurturing Creativity During Coronavirus (And Always)
So when we find a bit of space, how can we nurture creativity? How do we write when our mind is going in a million directions at once? How do we manage our emotions when making art?
1: Journal
These are unique times! Write about them. Put that emotion on the page and let the thoughts out of your crowded mind. This helps us be mentally prepared to create, and it also gives us a better understanding of emotions themselves which can then be channeled into our art.
It may not be for everyone, but journaling is personally one of my very top self-care strategies.
2: Read
Let’s fill ourselves with stories! Reread your favorites and look online for new ebooks or audio books.
Sometimes we need to be reminded of books’ magic.
3: Try something new
Let this be a chance to let go of any pressure to be good and just try whatever we want! No judgement, no expectations.
I drew cartoons with my girls earlier this week and plan to do painting later today. Not my usual projects but definitely worthwhile!
4: Find community
We need ways to be connected with others.
Whether it’s skype, zoom, facetime, or a regular phone call- finding ways to communicate and be in touch is important. Write a letter. Trade silly pictures with your friends. Talk about your writing and creative projects with whoever you may be quarantined with, and ask about their projects too!
Look for writing groups online! Lots of writers are eager to chat.
Another resource is Camp Nanowrimo which is running next month for anyone who wants to join a virtual “cabin” and be connected with new writers or band together with friends.
5: Write
Even if it feels awkward or uncomfortable, even if we’re distracted or tired… we should still write.
Remind yourself of why you write.
Evaluate your writing goals.
And let’s put or pens to the paper or our fingers on the keyboard and keep going.
Writing is so important, my friends, now more than ever.
For further reading:
Writing in a Time of Anxiety – Nathan Bransford
Good thoughts on what it means to be writing in these crazy days!
Keep Going by Austin Kleon
This is an affiliate link because I own and love everything by Austin Kleon. While you’re at it, sign up for his free newsletter and check out his blog. Excellent, enlightening, and positive stuff.
How are you doing this week? I hope and pray you are well. And I hope you get a chance to rest, be rejuvenated, and create something today!
One thought on “Creativity During Coronavirus”
Comments are closed.