Fingers crossed and all other things being well, I’m bound for Hippocamp 2021 this weekend to give my presentation, “Find Your Focus: Exploring the Why/What/How of your Writing Process.” While disappointed that Delta has made it impossible to socialize naturally at the conference, I am still very excited to go! It’s my third time attending, but first time as a speaker, and that gives the whole weekend a fresh feel. I’m also quite proud of the effort I’ve put into my presentation and think it’ll go well.

One of my favorite lines of the presentation, and one that I could’ve spent the entire session on by itself, is this:

You must take care of the writer before you take care of the writing.

This is a lesson I’ve learned over and over during the pandemic. The foundation of a creative life is the wellness of the creator. This rule can be applied to all the other facets of my life, and many other professions as well. Some examples:

You must take care of the mother before you take care of the mothering.

You must take care of the educator before you take care of the educating.

You must take care of the musician before you take care of the music.

“Taking care” will look different for every individual. For me, taking care during the pandemic has looked like this. If you’re frustrated, angry with yourself, or feeling stuck, return to a mantra like the ones I listed above. Take the time to reflect, heal, and regroup before trying again. There is no creativity without the creator. No work can be done without the worker.

Find a balance that allows you to prioritize your own needs, and the rest of your creative life will fall into place.

What would your wellness mantra be?

A note about the conference: After it’s over, I’d be happy to share my presentation with anyone who’s interested (a few of you have already asked, and I haven’t forgotten). Wish me luck! And those of you attending Hippocamp– I can’t wait to see you in person! Even with masks, even with social distance, it’s going to be great!