Time off, or downtime, encourages creativity. A number of studies have shown it to be true. One published in 2014, for example, reported that a vacation could increase creativity by boosting cognitive flexibility when employees returned to work. Other studies have reported that catching up on sleep, getting “away fromContinue Reading
Creative people often need to say “no” when they say “yes.” Do you know Meghan Trainor’s hit, simply called “NO?” Personally, I can’t help but sing along with the tune. But beyond its catchiness, the lyrics got me thinking: Writers too often say “yes” when they should say “no.” ThisContinue Reading
It’s that time of year again—the time for spring cleaning! I’m feeling the urge to throw things away. Everywhere I look it seems I see too much stuff. On the desk, those papers, they need to go. In the closet, way too much. I haven’t worn that for a coupleContinue Reading
by Sarah Schembri As a writer working from home, I know how creatively draining it can be when you don’t get out of the house to go to the office. I’m not complaining. Working from home allows me to create my own schedule and to work in complete silence, whichContinue Reading
Everyone wants to be more productive these days. We all have so much to do. Is it possible to do more in less time? Whatever apps you may use or tasks you may delegate, there’s one thing you must do if you want to stay on top of your “to-do”Continue Reading
At a recent conference, I was surprised to learn that creative burnout is common among writers. I was at the Aspen Summer Words Conference and had chance to meet award-winning author Hannah Tinti. I heard her speak on the final panel of the week and then asked her sign myContinue Reading
Do you crave that creative euphoria writers sometimes get from writing? Unfortunately, many writers turn to alcohol to get it. Look at the list of famous authors who were alcoholics and you get names like Raymond Chandler, John Cheever, Tennessee Williams, Dylan Thomas, Edgar Allen Poe, Truman Capote, Jack Kerouac,Continue Reading
Are you suffering from the writing blahs? When you sit down to work, do you sigh deeply and resort to eating chocolates until your writing time is over? In other words, has it been awhile since the muse graced your doorstep? If so, it’s time to woo her back. BecauseContinue Reading
If you go too long without taking time off—real time off—you run the risk of suffering from cerebral congestion, which sabotages creativity and imagination.