Writing inspiration: Jump into the pool!
Is there a creative project or dream in your heart that you want to follow?
Dear reader,
Have you ever tried to wade into a swimming pool when the water felt too cold?
Recently, a few people have spoken to me about creative projects they’re interested in pursuing. I remember when I took a long break from one of my novels when I was younger, and I felt a sort of dread at the idea of getting back into the book. I wanted to keep writing it, but the idea of having to remember what I wrote and where I left off — that felt like really hard work. That may seem strange given I work very hard and value hard work, but the idea of having to re-learn the story and characters felt like a big, daunting task.
Jumping into a new project or one you haven’t worked on in a while reminds me of the experience of getting into a pool. If you wade in, the upside is that you can take your time and control your comfort to a certain degree. However, unless the pool is heated, it’s going to feel super cold and unpleasant as you slowly get into the water.
You could also choose to dive or jump in, which can be shocking, but helps you get used to the water and onto the swimming part faster.
With both methods, you will experience some unpleasantness before it feels better, and then you can enjoy swimming!
That’s why we do it—that’s why, even though we don’t usually look forward to the getting-into-the-pool part, we, well, get into the pool. It’s because despite the unpleasantness at first, we want to swim and we know we’ll enjoy it!
Writing something new or returning to a writing or other creative project is like that. I know it seems difficult at first, especially if it’s a creative endeavour you haven’t explored yet. I know it can seem daunting and even discouraging.
But if something inside you is interested in writing or another creative endeavour, then maybe some part of you knows you will enjoy it.
What’s the difference between dreaming and reality? It’s possible it could be you. You picking up the pen or sitting at the keyboard and typing.
If you have some “me” time and you really want to start a new creative project or jump back into one you already created, I hope this helps provide inspiration and encouragement. Sometimes Nike’s slogan really does apply best: “Just do it!”
PS. When the analogy for getting into the pool and dreaming + reality came to me, I realized that both are major elements in In Your Dreams. Pure coincidence!
The next issue of Doing the Write Thing is coming to your inbox soon!
I have a full draft of an issue almost ready to go, but I really wanted to get this inspiration out to you first and to focus on your passion for writing (or other creative endeavour). I hope this helps!