Did I mention before that memoir writing is hard? Well, it is! And right now, in this moment in time, this memoir feels like an albatross around my neck. Going back into old emotions and reliving difficult events in your life is one of the most challenging things to do. As you go mining for those emotionally charged memoires, it is essential to have ways to keep yourself well. Self care is a must for any memoir writer (in fact for any artist). As a quick reference for myself, I’ve drawn up two lists that I go to on a daily basis – ‘Things that make me happy’ and ‘Things to keep me well’, which include

• Movement – Walking, dancing (while listening to my favorite music), skipping. Anything to help those stuck emotions move through your body.
• Meditation – I listen to guided meditations on a daily basis. It tames my monkey mind & helps keep me calm.
• Good sleep – a must!
• Positive affirmations – a new one I’ve introduced since yesterday.
• Watching movies – as a storyteller I’m always on the look out for a good movie.
• Chatting with my writing group – Anne, Alana, Mairead. I’d be lost without you guys! They’ve been keeping me going since May 2021. Writing can be a lonely affair, and having a writing group is one of the best things you can do for your creative endeavors. I appreciate you guys!
• Hugs 🙂
• Talking to yourself kindly and trying not to take yourself too seriously – it’s good to have a laugh, even at yourself (or an imaginary albatross).