Like many of you, I’ve been in quarantine for 25 days. I’m in that high-risk population because of my Cystic Fibrosis.

The first few days were spent making lofty plans to finish a project, start projects, and edit existing works.

By the second week, I was stressed. I was afraid of getting sick, overwhelmed by the news, and becoming frustrated by my lack of writing progress. I had to take a step back and refocus my energy on the things I could control: what I did with and how I spent my time.

What do you do to help refocus your writing energy?

• Tap into your writing community

Tapping into my writing community keeps me focused and inspired on my goals. It is a hub for all things writing, marketing and motivation. An added bonus is being surrounded by like-minded creators.

• Show up

Skipping writing time because of lack of motivation is easier than planting your butt in the chair. But I can assure you, one hundred new words consistently each day is better than zero. You can’t edit what you don’t have.

• Get inspired

I don’t know about you, but this pandemic has given me new perspective. I suspect millions of people are going to devote time into pursuing their dreams. I also imagine some of those dreams are of being self-employed and not dependent on a 9-5. 

Some of us are realizing how vulnerable we are and want to change that.

The good news? Authors are already on that path of entrepreneurship. 

For others, getting inspired isn’t anything as drastic. It’s outlining a new story, developing a simple marketing plan, or designing a new cover.

• Small steps

Part of my frustration was making a huge list of things to accomplish during my quarantine time. Instead, focus on small achievable goals that can be celebrated when completed.

Write for short periods of time each day or on consistent days each week. Depending on your output, 30-45 mins might be enough to feel productive. With the kids home, 15-30 mins of speed writing will suffice. The goal is forward movement using small recognizable steps.

How are you maintaining your creativity?

What I’m reading: Become a Successful Indie Author 

Feel good story: After 13 years of social distancing, giant pandas finally mate