Go easy on yourself by Claire Musters

I have found myself writing more than one blog post on this subject; I think that’s reflective of where I am at – and many others of us too (when I opened Christian Writer after having written this, I saw editor James Prescott had written something similar). 

Having researched and written an article on the emotional cost of lockdown, during the past week I have had an intense experience of it as my kids have struggled to readjust to being at school.

 

Initially being at home on my own was very strange – I missed them, but also lapped up the sense of space and freedom. I’ve loved singing at the top of my voice, not worrying about interrupting an online lesson, and have also got back to doing a bit of exercise before settling down to work.

 

But writing has still been difficult, even though many of the distractions are gone. I recognise exhaustion has been a big part of this, but nevertheless it took me by surprise.

 

With a short, intense deadline I’ve been fine, although I’ve noticed my concentration doesn’t last too long. But, even though I now have more extended periods of time where I can sit and write, I’m finding I need to get up and take a break more regularly than I used to.

 

International Women’s Day came and went, without me blogging about it (something I do every year). And I’ve also kept quiet over all the discussions on women not feeling safe. Both of these subjects would usually get my writer’s juices flowing and I began to feel annoyed at myself for ‘missing opportunities’. 

 

Then I remembered that self-compassion truly is a thing.

 

There is a reason I feel wrung out. Why words aren’t coming so easily. And that needs acknowledging, addressing where necessary (hence I chose to go to bed rather than staying up to watch the recording of THE interview last week, even though one of the jobs I am currently doing is for an organisation that comments on current events).

 

I know we have each had our own different experiences during the three lockdowns. But I also know that none of us has remained unaffected. Initially, I naively thought my life wouldn’t change too much, as I’ve worked from home for years – while my writing set up is still the same, so much else has been transformed beyond recognition!

 

So, wherever you are at with your writing – whether totally engrossed and prolifically turning out a masterpiece, agonising over producing a single sentence, or somewhere in between – please go easy on yourself. And remember – self-compassion as a writer truly is a thing – and an important one at that.

Claire is a freelance writer, speaker and editor, mum, pastor’s wife and worship leader. Her books include Taking off the mask: daring to be the person God created you to be, various Cover to Cover and Insight Guide titles. She has also written a devotional on disappointment and loss (available as an eBook or physical book). Grace-Filled Marriage by Claire and Steve Musters will be published by Authentic Media on 7 May. Find out more at www.clairemusters.com and https://thebigchurchread.co.uk/grace-filled-marriage/ where you can sign up to receive emails about the reading plan and videos we are producing for the Big Church Read