Resourcefulness is my super Power.
As a woman of color; a woman who resides in one of the most challenging cities in the country; a chick who has worn many hats personally and professionally in my life span; a woman of modest means...well, it kind of comes with the territory.
As I look outside my window and attempt to make weekend plans, I am not pleased that I have to postpone an outdoors party that I had in the works again, due to rainfall of Biblical proportions.
And according to the recent weather forecast, we have plenty more where that came from.
CHOICES AND CHANGES...
In the midst, I realize that I have a choice. I can sulk and hide under the covers for the upcoming days, or make the most of being confined at home. After all, it's not like we don't have enough experience under our belts with the mandates associated with Corona Virus over the last year or two. True?
Besides which, inclement weather seems to be on the menu for many places around the country. The weather is either as hot as Hades or flooding, or raining like cats and dogs. So, it pays to be flexible and patient. As there are a few lovely days here and there some where. And for writers, the proper mindset affects productivity; if there is no output, there's no income.
ACCORDINGLY, HERE ARE 7 FUN THINGS TO DO TO KEEP YOUR SPIRITS UP AND MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DOWN TIME:
pixabay.com
1. HAVE A MOVIE MARATHON
Whether you score your movies through Netflix, the Dollar Store, or your favorite movie channel, kick back with some popcorn, a glass of wine, and your favorite box of candy. Escape. De-stress. Often, for writers this recreational pursuit can lead to inspiration for a poem, a short story or a paid movie review.
2. PHONE A FRIEND
When was the last time you picked up a phone to speak with your peeps? Social media is not the only way to connect and bond. Yesterday, for example, I got an unexpected call from one of my college buddies that really lifted my spirits and made me mindful of everyday blessings. Trust me, someone is probably waiting to hear from you.
3. TRY SOME NEW RECIPES
Even if you don't really dig cooking, you can garner some great recipes online that will impress your next house guests, relax you, and please your palate. YouTube has some fun tutorials. Matter of fact, I learned how to make Jello Shots from an online site. And believe me... they are a real crowd pleaser at parties!
HERE ARE A FEW OF MY FAVORITE GO TO SPOTS:
4. JAM TO SOME GOOD MUSIC
Did you know that June is Black Music Month? What better time to explore some new musical artists of color? Or to revisit some of the oldies but goodies? Besides altering a bad mood, music is reported to have health benefits as well.
According to gethealthystayhealthy.com: "Studies have shown that when you hear music to your liking, the brain actually releases a chemical called dopamine that has positive effects on mood. Music can make us feel strong emotions, such as joy, sadness, or fear—some will agree that it has the power to move us. According to some researchers, music may even have the power to improve our health and well-being."
It appears that there is some validity to the adage "Music soothes the savage beast."
5. GO BLOG HOPPING!
Catch up on what's going on in the blogosphere. Were you aware that blogs are now considered a reputable source of local, national and entertainment oriented information? Word!
Visit old favorites and discover new ones that suit your interests and lifestyle.
6. UPDATE YOUR OWN BLOG
Consider infusing your site with new content, current happenings, calls for submissions, your latest poem, etc.
Stay relevant. Keep the conversation going.
7. READ
Reading is as essential to writers as cookware is to chefs. How else will you come to understand the needs of an audience? Or learn how to spin a phrase? Or expand your vocabulary? Or examine various literary devices?
Final Thought
Don't allow inclement weather to "ground" your spirits.
Stay rooted in everyday blessings. "When life brings you lemons, make lemonade!"
Your turn, readers.
Agree or disagree? What's your favorite thing to do in inclement weather?
Image credits: Pixabay.com
I agree! There are so many things we can do - productive and/or just plain relaxing - that are good for our "writer's brains". Regular life, sprinkled with down time and entertainment provides great diversions, inspiration, and therapy. I know I need to allow myself to indulge and be lazy sometimes, too. My favorites are reading and watching good movies. Thanks for sharing, Jen!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a fun time. Thanks so much for your thoughts, Karen!
ReplyDelete