The Art of Just Showing Up
Embracing the Blank Page
Don’t Get Bent Out of Shape
Writing, in many ways, parallels the practice of yoga. It’s not about the complexity of the pose or the eloquence of your prose; it’s about showing up — to the mat, to the blank page. The true value in writing often lies not in the finished product but in the act of showing up to write. Let’s delve into why just being present at your writing desk (or wherever you find your creative spark) is a victory in itself.
The Journey of Writing and Yoga
In yoga, the physical act of arriving on the mat is considered the completion of the journey. Similarly, in writing, reaching the blank page is a significant accomplishment. It’s about making a commitment to your craft and honoring it by simply being there, ready to engage with your thoughts and ideas.
The Battle Should Be in Your Story, Not in getting to the Page
Many writers find their biggest battle is not with plot twists or character development; it’s actually making it to the blank page. The real narrative conflict should be within your story, not in the act of starting to write. If you’re spending more energy fighting internal battles to start writing than actually writing, it’s time to rethink your approach.
You Are Enough to Start Writing
There’s a common misconception that you need to be ‘more’ before you can write — more prepared, more inspired, more skilled. But this is a fallacy. Who you are at this moment is enough to start writing. Your unique perspective, with all its imperfections and quirks, is what will bring authenticity and depth to your work.
Beware of the ‘I Just Need to XYZ’ Trap
How often have you thought, “I’ll just do XYZ, and then I’ll write,” only to find that XYZ becomes a never-ending list? This is a classic procrastination tactic. Waiting for the perfect conditions to write is like waiting for all the traffic lights to be green before you start your journey — it’s just not practical (But it is safe, don’t run red lights folks, that’s dangerous … and illegal). The key is to start where you are, with what you have.
Celebrate the Act of Showing Up
It’s pretty simple: the true value in writing lies in the act of just showing up. It’s about embracing the blank page, bringing your whole self to your writing, and understanding that your presence is the first and most crucial step in the creative process. So next time you hesitate, remember: just showing up is half the battle won.
