Creative Writing for Cluttered Minds

People have been recording legends, stories, and accounts of their lives since the beginning of human history. However, many people are hesitant to put pen to paper after they are no longer required to for academic purposes. Others are burnt out from writing in their professions, and others still are simply too nervous that they might say something “wrong”. But, it has been shown that journaling and creative writing can be powerful tools for processing emotion and gaining insight in the worst and best of times.

The best way to learn how to write is to read. Many of us are visual learners, and absorbing the sentence structure, word choice, and other qualities of writing we see in our favorite novels is one of the fastest ways to begin to understand how we want our own writing to sound. In addition to all that reading can teach you about writing, it is also an excellent way to take a break from reality and become absorbed in another world. Books and magazines are easy to carry with you to the office, the park, and anywhere else you need to find a break. There is also a plethora of virtual reading material like audiobooks and blogs if a book feels too daunting. 

Although reading is an excellent way to begin the process of journaling, it is certainly not out of bounds to jump right into the journaling process. Recently, journaling has become popular through social media, especially during the pandemic. People not only had more time to engage in journaling, but there was also so much to process that journaling became one of many accessible outlets for the emotional turmoil experienced across the world. However, the practice of journaling does not require a global crisis. Journaling about the average day is a great way to not only process the day, but also to give people a place to remind themselves of experiences and emotions they might have otherwise forgotten. However, this is not to say that journaling should not be used in moments of crisis. Many therapists recommend journaling because it is a judgement free method to share our feelings. It’s important not to put too much pressure on what you write in a journal; they can become novels or simply a station for a runaway train of thought. 

Outside of journaling, which is primarily nonfiction, creative writing is another great way to engage with writing for mindfulness. After leaving school, many people forget the joy of making a story come to life on the page. Creative writing allows the mind to wander into fantasy worlds, mysteries, and romance all without leaving the office. It is a common misconception that one must be “a writer” in order to jot down a story or anecdote, but creative writing is for everyone. We all have stories we carry with us, and like our emotions, it is important to let them out every once in a while. So, the next time you think to yourself; “that would make a great story”, give yourself the chance to write it. 

To learn more about the power of reading and writing, check out Tripod’s latest episode “Our Keys to the World: Reading and Writing” on our website or anywhere you find podcasts. 

By Lily Brennan