Thank you so much for 62,000 subscribers! Are you joining me on this writer reset? Have you chosen any areas of focus for yourself? Or are you just diving straight into the writing? Let me know in the comments, so we can cheer each other on!
Thank you so much for posting this part of your journey. I am in the same exact boat right now creatively and hearing that you are going through what I am brought me to tears. I didn't feel alone any more. I have been beating myself up because I have been stuck in a writer's block since 2020 and everything that happened. I am definitely joining you on this writer reset! I want to go back to having fun with my writing. I have so many more ideas to explore in my own book series, and I miss that joy that I used to have when writing. I've struggled with my health and a lot of big changes as well, including a move and finding a full time position teaching which I absolutely love and enjoy. I have been so happy and blessed in many ways but the stress of the world has also weighed heavy on my shoulders, and my health took a hit last year too. I'm slowly getting things back on track but my writing and creating has taken a back seat and I miss it so much. Thank you again for sharing your mindset and strategies, this has been so helpful. I look forward to the next video and making my own steps to finding the joy in creating again.
Congratulations on hitting 62K! 🎉❤ I'm chipping away at my Camp NaNo project. Frankensteining a new master for my WIP. (Currently behind.) Then, if I finish it by the end of the month I think I'm going to take a day or two to let my subconscious work before I talk to the folks at Atticus. My gut is telling me there's something I'm missing/vaguely onto on some level. I just need to figure it out.
@@Sailortwilight I'm in your boat! I'm looking forward to finding the joy again. My garden has been my saviour, but I miss my writing and I'm excited to come back to it. Good luck! 💌
I am absolutely joining in the reset! I am recovering from mold poisoning, which seriously affected my writing. And actually one of my biggest areas of focus will be schooling my kiddos. We homeschool and I tend to write better when we have had a successful school day. So I want to really refine our daily routines and get back to doing full schedules again. 🥰 Looking forward to your vlogs on your reset!
This very week, I made myself write with these things: 1- Journal; 2- I took by next book from the pile, and made myself write (the act) by type the pages I wanted to read, then I heard Muse say "ok ok! I get it!" (500 words later) 3- Chose to tell a whole story in 100 words so I could finish something. Then Muse came back to my main project!!! I had to make myself to write in order to bring back Muse. I hope this helps someone ❤
Just the uplifting message I need to reset my own writing routine. I have been feeling uninspired ever since I was diagnosed with Cancer in November. Now, that I am in a routine of daily radiation, I want to create a schedule for writing that works not only around my job and treatments, but also around self-care, so I will be working all of these plus family and writing time into my reset: Work (so I don't fall behind), treatments (so I regain my strength), self-care (to assist the treatments in getting healthy again), family (to ensure my two autistic teens feel safe and loved) and writing time (to finally finish the conclusion to my book, lol!) It's a lot writing it all out, but I know I can balance all of it, I just need to organize my weeks better.
@@HeartBreathings Thank you. I am actually in good spirits, just so tired, it is hard to tap into my creativity right now. I thought after surgery I would have time to write while I was recovering, but that was a bit too optimistic, lol. I only have 4 more weeks of radiation, so I know things will get better from here. :)
Daily radiation is super hard and it gets harder as it goes along. I did a 42 day radiation/chemo treatment back in August and by the end I was exhausted. I just finished my maintenance chemo in March. When you plan, please make sure to give yourself a lot of grace. Plan for more than you think you’ll need and then double that.
At the end of this video you reminded me of my favorite quote about art: “Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one.” - Stella Adler I can’t wait to see wait this quarter holds for you. I believe in you! 😘
I just want to say you have inspired me so much in the last couple of weeks. I've been in such a negative stressed space regarding my writing career that I couldn’t write for over three months. That along with health issues. So it's been difficult to reset until I decided to binge your videos and you touched me with inspiration and unfiltered relatable thoughts. Thank you so much and I'm excited for this writer reset series! Thank you for all your hard work and transparency. ❤
This means a lot, thank you! It's not always easy to admit what I'm really feeling because it does open me up to criticism but at the same time, I know I'm not alone. It's so hard to write from a place of stress, and I'm grateful that my videos have helped you in any way!
@@HeartBreathings I know how much anxiety that being open can create because criticism is the worst, but you're changing not only your life but others. Especially when it comes to running our own businesses in the writing sphere and having to be everything at once. While we may set expectations and goals it's okay not to meet them as long as we're still being true to ourselves. That literally changed my life. Your happy planner videos changed the way I plot and I didn't realize how much relying on Notion and things like that just really dampened my creativity and made it feel more like "work" than something I love, my passion. My happy planners have literally made me so happy and I've plotted the end of my current series and just-- I could go on. Changing my space and making it less cluttered, new tools... I set a 15,000 word goal for Camp Nano this year and I'm already at almost 9,000, going for 10,000 by end of day and I've wanted to write even when I don't feel well. So for every criticism and naysayer, for every person who thinks they know better or certain things are unnecessary... just know there are fifty more of us who are thriving for the first time in a long time thanks to you being so open and amazing. You are a gem.
1 minute in and my heart aches… thank you for sharing this message. In late 2019 I decided to write my first novel Blood Moon: Book 1 of the Crescent Crown Saga an adult paranormal romance/urban fantasy. But the pandemic went down in the middle of writing… at first this was good bc I spent what would have been my commute time to work writing. But then I got Epstein barr virus (chronic stress/fatigue). Even still, I published in October 2020! Then my sister in law passed away and we took guardianship of her teenage son in spring 2021. Yet I was STILL determined to publish the sequel and did so October 2021 while I was also planning my wedding 🤦🏼♀️ and still suffering EBV. Finally in 2022 I couldn’t do it all anymore and sought answers as to why I felt tired and brain fog and that’s when I finally got my diagnosis. So I hadn’t written anything for a year and a half. I’m still recovering but as I’ve been getting some better energy days the inspiration has kicked in again. So low key, when I feel up to it I’ve been writing again! I’m publishing a new dark romance fantasy series on Kindle Vella called A Promise So Dark & Wicked as a way to boost my confidence again and hopefully build a reader base. I’m SO excited for this story. But I also remind myself I gotta get good sleep and can’t write late anymore like I used to 😂😅 Thank you thank you thank you. We MUST care for ourselves and our families first and overcome internal challenges to succeed on the external, too! It sucks when bad things happen to us, when we don’t feel well, or the muse is on vacation - I’m glad this is such a supportive writing community! We will get through it together and be stronger on the other end ♥️ Remember to fill your muse’s cup first with good content and she will come back to you in time!
So glad this resonates. It sounds like you have had a really tough few years. Your book sounds great just from the title! And that's fun about the Vella series!
“You need you.” - what a wonderful phrase to hear this morning while listening to you encourage yourself, others and me forward. Thank you for your video. ❤
Girl, same boat! Pass me an oar! Its crazy how similar our current situations look! Thank you for your transparency and honesty. It helps just knowing I'm not the only one... But also, putting words to everything I've been feeling and hearing it said out loud doesn't just make me feel validated, but motivated to actually make steps forward. Thank you! Praying for your journey forward, and that your joy is sparked and you can have some really fire writing sessions soon!
I totally agree--organization helps unclutter the mind. When I moved last year, I set up every drawer, closet, and cupboard to extraordinary organization. Everything has a home! It's made a world of difference. Moving takes so much energy and mind space. Now that you're settled, the words will come. :-)
So I’m only 2 min into this video and I’m already in tears. Target audience definitely reached! My writing life has felt alot like what you’re describing and it’s been hard to come back to the joyfulness of my story world. I’m grateful to say that my characters are still there (they normally leave after I haven’t given them enough attention) but it’s been such a struggle to get back to focusing on them. It’s been breaking my heart. I feel more hopeful knowing I’m not alone in this and that there is a way out!
You reminded me how much getting your workspace organized allows your thoughts to drift and settle, your anxiety and frustrations to dissipate so you can settle down and create. Im in a hotel writing while my kid is at a dance convention and juggling, running and bananas telling myself there are seasons to life...and my creative seasons before kids now have to share the creation of my kids. its a lot.. just do what you can each day and that's enough...xo
I'm watching this video on a Monday morning. If you've ever wondered the impact you make, please know that your words are soaking in. When you grow up in a home where you equate love with productivity, sitting down to write when the well is dry triggers anxiety and depression. I've not put out a book in two years. It was good, but it was forced. When my husband was diagnosed with cancer, all creativity dried up. Because of this ingrained need to be productive, I started taking classes. Masterclass at first, then Mark Dawson, all the way to now. I enjoy educating myself because I truly believe the day you think you know everything is the day you begin to stagnate. Nobody likes "stinkin' thinkin', including me. I'm 30k into this story, and need a reset. I believe in signs and, as I watch this, I have one. A little dragonfly spoke volumes.
I am resetting *everything* this quarter! I started writing in a new genre and plan to launch a new pen name next year. I've tried and failed before, throwing my heart and soul into my books and realising that they're so difficult to advertise that readers can't find them. So, I'm trying again. Fall six times, rise seven. This thing isn't going to beat me.
I love to talk out my story issues on my phone's voice recorder and then listen later. When I listen, it feels like I'm hearing someone else and often I can find the flaws in my thinking and come up with even better ideas. I can also catch myself being negative about my writing and reframe my thinking. It has helped me tremendously.
I can't tell you how much I appreciate your willingness to share your life in such an open and vulnerable way. It provides me with so much comfort and inspiration to watch your videos and I hope you realize how much good you're putting into the world. It makes a difference. 🥰
I really appreciate your honesty and transparency in communicating your struggles with your writing journey. Thank you for sharing your reset plans. It's definitely a needed message in the world today. I look forward to seeing you go through this journey. I have a project I'm working on that I really need to finish and all of your tips will be most welcome.
I love the honesty in the intro. I had the same. Issue for about a year. Between September 2021 and September 2022 I did not do much. I am currently revising and I have been productive since January 2023🎉😊.
I found you a few months ago as a writer looking to improve my technique and productivity. What I didn’t realize was how much I needed your planning videos! I used to be a go getter, then for about 10 years I’ve had physical and mental health issues. Getting on track again has been like slogging through mud. You’ve inspired me in more ways than one. I love how you make planning pretty and fun, and you motivate me to do it. The act of planning has helped me immensely! Im getting more writing done but I’m also doing better in other areas of my life. Thank you for all you do. ❤
I know you have been struggling, you have been so honest and willing to share - but you are a TRUE inspiration! You have been through a crazy couple of years (moves, kids, health -- all of it!!) Thank you for sharing your reset! Just know all of us 'sisters of the pen' are pulling for you as you launch your rocket towards joy and satisfaction with your writing. Stay strong!! xoxo
Thank you - so authentic and inspiring, we are all in this challenging world together trying to create and take care of ourselves and our families. Beautiful living by example to show us your gorgeously organized and WIP world and life. Love it! So helpful and loving to share with us, much appreciated. 🥰
Such an inspiring and uplifting vlog, Sarra. So much of what you said resonated, especially scrolling social media and healthy eating. We are what we watch and what we eat. Also, stress. We unexpectedly had to move house and I feel like I’ve lost the last four months. Now we’re settled in, I need to get back to the joy of writing and creativity. I’m excited to see you re-find that passion for writing and I’ll be supporting you from the sidelines, whilst implementing a lot of what you’ve suggested ♥️
Such a great analysis of why your writing isn't working. I've noticed this as well. I need a stable life to do the mental prep work to write. If that isn't possible, then I'd best focus on other things that make me happy because that may lead to inspiration. Your problem has never been the writing. I've been amazed at how thoughtful and loving how you lead your community... so that WE can write. But if that means that you can't write anymore, then that would be a shame. Great job at resetting your writing life. I love this video.
Thank you so much for this, Sarra. It’s reassuring and inspiring to know that even authors with a beautiful career can struggle with self doubt and writing. It is really great that you are taking so many of us along with you on this inspiring journey. I hope we all find joy in our writing again:)
Thank you, sarra, for all your encouragement and inspiration!! I'm looking forward to this series. I've been feeling uninspired for quite some time now with health issues that have taken over my quality of life and functionality, I still find I'm grieving the old version of myself in ways. As well as dealing with home renovations for the last several years. It's been rough, to say the least. My writing and a lot of my goals have been put on pause over the last two years, and I'm looking forward to finding the spark once again. Thank you for always being so vulnerable with us. That takes courage within itself, and I just want to know how much I commend you for that. You're a beautiful soul, and I'm so glad I've found this community 💗 xoxo
You know what I can envision in your beautiful garden. I mini highland cow. You’d need two, they require company, but imagine going out in the morning and stroking cows. How inspiring. But if cows aren’t your thing, joy will come. Evie is still a baby, and you have those hormones still, buzzing around. Be kind, Sarra, you’re doing a lot. You make videos, you organize a lot, I think you are a serial organizer, it makes you feel good. Get settled, get a routine and joy will come. ❤
This really spoke to my soul, Sarra. Especially the last part about pursuing our joy and creativity even when it feels "wrong" (my word) to do so in the midst of all the atrocities going on. I've really been spiraling down lately, and I know that writing will lift me back up. Also staying offline and not obsessively following all the news. Working on movement and eating better, too. :) Thank you for your tranparency and compassion. When I finish my next book, you're going in the acknowledgments!
Thanks for sharing your plans, and for the encouragement. Each person finds their joy in their own way. And it truly never is too late to start over. 💜
I think the last few years have negatively impacted a lot of creative people. I have seen a lot of other creatives hit their walls, and need to regroup and refocus. I am also with you, too, as a writer and an artist.
I've been in a writing slump for almost a year. My husband lost his job the end of February and we're having to move at the end of August, where we don't know. Two weeks ago my father lost his battle with cancer, after a 20 year fight. I am so overwhelmed with everything that I feel like giving up, but I know writing is my calling. I've known since the age of 15. I am currently drafting book two in my YA series, but I'm finding it difficult to want to write. (I published book one and a poetry book after taking P&T last year!) I want to join you on this writer reset. I NEED to do this. I always find inspiration in your videos and I'm going through the P&T course again in hopes that it'll get me excited about writing again. Love you Sarra and I thank you!
Thank you for sharing your struggles. They help the rest of us who are also struggling. Ever since my husband died, I have been in the negative spiral that you mentioned. I'm just now coming out of it and wanting to reclaim my passion for writing.
@@HeartBreathings Thank you. It's been almost 3 years, and reading books has been my escape. It's so true what you said about needing that during hard times.
Okay I deleted my first comment because wanted to really hear your whole video and think about it. I've been watching you for years and I absolutely love you. You are one of my writing mentors. I have been in the same position; homeschooling two children, renovating an old house, blogging and a youtube channel, patreon, writing. I have published 31 books in 8 years but haven't written fiction in 5 of those years. For me, I was spread too thin. I recently let everything go but my writing craft (and children of course) and unplugged 98% from the internet. I have been, like you, filling up on fiction, music, playing and good movies. My fiction writing mind has returned full force. Food for though.
As wonderful as it would be, I do not make a living with my writing, so the pressure isn’t there. I remember my older brother saying you enjoy a hobby more when it’s not your job, and you’ve gone through so many major life changes since that time you were the most productive. You’re bound to slow down after all that. Then there’s the effect that happens when you realized you achieved something you’ve dreamed of. One might tend to coast a bit and enjoy the benefits of hard work. So, there are no big surprises there. It’s all normal.
I love you…I’m not a writer, but I am an entrepreneur. Your videos help me feel like I’m not alone in the struggles, so thank you for being willing to be vulnerable ❤❤
I haven’t worked on any serious projects since nanowrimo 2020. That changed just last night. I had a story idea and started outlining and brainstorming for a story bible. I even wanted to get my whiteboard out of storage! Sometimes life gets busy, and we don’t always have the mental space for writing…even if it brings us an immense amount of joy. I hope you’re able to work through it and come out the other side. ❤
I didn't need this series when you first posted it, but it's just what I need now. Thanks for always having such heartfelt, empathetic advice to offer your fellow writers. ❤❤
Thank you so much for posting this, I too have been really struggling with this and can really relate to a lot of what you said, especially about the toxicity online and how it affects you. You’re such an inspiration Sarra and I’m sending you lots of love as you journey through your writer reset ❤
I have a treadmill pad and a relatively inexpensive IKEA up-down desk. I do appreciate your idea about tying walking into family time. Making it the first and last hour of my working day in my study has made all the difference creatively. I hope you find your own best way, Sarra
Thank you for this video. I have been pulled away from writing for almost 2 years due to my partners failing health. I will watch your journey to reset. Good luck. I miss writing SO much too!
Yet another video that hit me right in the gut! Your words of wisdom and encouragement are what every aspiring writer needs to hear every day. We need more people like you who have the courage to earnestly follow their dreams so others can be inspired to not give up on theirs. A writer retreat is just what I need to recharge and rekindle my creativity again. Thank you, Sarra, for being a voice of hope in the online community 💜
I needed this video. I've been letting things slip since the beginning of the year and it's been such a gradual progression, I didn't really even notice it until you said some of the things you said. Thank you for the wake up call! It's amazing how much food affects every aspect of our lives. I don't have PCOS, but I struggle with sleep too. My diet has a lot to do with my sleep struggles, mood, energy, ability to focus.... Why is food so hard???... I have Communication in my top five Strengths too and am highly verbal. I have to talk everything through, especially what I'm writing - my husband is willing, but he doesn't get my genre at all. It's one of the things I've realized has been holding me back a little. I currently don't have anyone to talk about my writing with. That's one of my projects this quarter - find some writing buddies I can actually talk to, rather than just messaging...The view from your backyard is gorgeous. I can't wait to see how the garden progresses... Organization is such a struggle for me, but it really does affect writing! I get anxious with clutter... but I'm terrible about tidying up as I go. I let my desk get to the point where it looks like a Cat 5 hurricane hit it... I feel you on the couch - I have a chair in my office that I bought specifically so I could read in it... it's been nothing but extra storage for books for months... Thank you for being so open with your ups & downs, successes & struggles. You are truly inspirational and I don't know where we'd be without you.💖
Wow, this is super amazing. I have been wanting to get back to writing for a long time but I wasn't really enjoying myself when I was writing because it felt like another homework/ project assignment. which is sad because the writing was my favorite creative outlet. Thank you so much for being inspiring me to never give up and restart my writing again.
i'm so grateful for this video! I have been stressed about work and have totally neglected my personal goal for campnano which was supposed to bring me joy... and now that they fired and have to sue them (!)... I've been so anxious and it's been hard breathing normally... and still... all I can think of is "but I have to clean and organize before writing"... anyway, this is exactly what I needed to remember that I'm not crazy, I'm not the only one going through hard times, and there is a way moving forward
I'm so sorry that happened! I was going through that kind of breathless, panic anxiety in late 2021 and it's so hard to focus when you don't feel safe!! Do what you need to do, and it's going to be okay!
I'm halfway through the video as I type this and it's like I'm hearing my own story. Thank you for sharing this video and creating the Writer Reset workbook. I will absolutely join in that reset.
Thank you so much for doing videos on this right now! It's perfect timing for me. I put aside writing for years while I went to nursing school and now I'm beginning to settle into my new career and I'm itching to do my own writer reset. I miss that writing spark just like you were saying! Looking forward to these videos!
You are a Writer Sarrah!! I just finished what I believe was your first book, and I loved it. The character development and plot was amazing! I am a legal consultant,representing many abused women and kiddos’s ,and this book really spoke to me. Soooo…..You’re Def an amazing writer, and we all understand sometimes life just gets in the way. I’m confident you will bounce back even mightier than before. Stay Strong! 💓💓🙏🙏🙏
Oh I love this! Just what I needed :) I feel the same about my younger self - she would NEVER believe me if she knew I make a living from poetry books!
Thank you so much for sharing this with us. I feel that you are a HUGE inspiration to a lot of us, especially myself. I have been a published author since 2013 but didn't really get into my groove (writing and publishing) until 2017. I have enjoyed watching your videos as they give me inspiration and motivation to keep writing. These past few years have really been rough though. I had been dealing with health issues since June 2021, which was when I quit my full-time job. Last year, I finally left a toxic relationship of three years. All of this had led to severe stress, anxiety, and depression. I had been struggling to write and this year I was finally able to put myself first and get myself back on track and find my passion for writing again. Self-care is important. Thank you for sharing your author journey with us. I hope you are able to find your creative spark again. ❤
Great Video Sarra. I'm also going through a writer reset, but my journey is different than yours and I will not bore you with the details. I plan on watching this series and I'll let you know how I'm doing as well. Writing a Dark Urban Fantasy Novel called Nefarious. It's set in 1903 in Virginia. Good Luck getting back on track and we can travel on this journey along with others together.
It’s two months ago for you however this video just popped up for me while looking for tips on getting my writerly self plugged back in and flowing productively. What a gift your shared reset series is - thank you so much. ❤
Thank you so much for this video. I am one of the people who very desperately needed to hear this 💚 I appreciate you sharing your journey, and I treasure the truth and encouragement you share. Super excited to get caught up on this series!
This was great to see, Sarra! Very inspiring, as usual. I'm actually away on a writing retreat on my own this weekend, so this video came at the right time. Let's do this!
Ahh thank you for this! I'm so glad you started sharing about PCOS because I started looking into it and asking my doctor, and have nearly all the symptoms myself so my doctor said most likely have PCOS also - so thank you for sharing because I don't think I would've discovered this otherwise! Also hearing you talk about the struggle to wake up / be productive in the morning was HUGE because I've had that since I was a teen and literally nobody gets it!! Family and even my husband don't totally get it lol, and I think they think I should be able to push through it, so it's so validating to hear someone else with that experience. Makes it less "I'm doing something wrong" and more "this is something I deal with but there are things I can do to make it better." p.s. one thing my doctor suggested that really helped me with the cortisol overload aka stress hormone, was taking Ashwaganda at night - 1,000% recommend looking into it if you're still dealing with that sleep stuff/stress!
I saw that you had liked some of the same PCOS Instagram posts I have so I wondered if you’d been dealing with this! I have been drinking ashwaganda in my coffee but in the morning and now I’ve given up coffee almost completely but I’ll have to look into it!!
I have sent for the reset workbook. Stress has definitely been a issue for me I have found myself with extreme adrenal fatigue. So working on myself while resetting my joy of writing also. Thank you so much for letting me know I am not alone in this struggle
Thank you, beautiful Sarra! You are an incredible inspiration. I am also an emotional writer - so this is lovely to hear and inspiring for deep personal reflections!
I started the month so strong... I followed your steps and told myself that I should mark weekends as off and gave myself the days I know my kids would be out of school off, my birthday also was marked as off. Then I told myself to have a plan of attack and gave myself a Camp goal of 10,000 as it took me 3 months to write over 10,000 on Q1. I also prepared the house by cleaning a bunch and making a list of what I could do each day to feel accomplished. And I reached 10,000 in 10 days but then my period came, kids out of school days that weren't planned came and the realization that I needed to do some research for my story I didn't tought about(flowers, dress and lace designs for my lead wedding preparations 😅) and I've been writing less, still trying to at least work on it daily while on a week day. But I think that you are right, the visual clutter stresses me out and this past week I neglected it, specially the living room where I mostly write, and it's been just nagging me. Watching your talk I have decided to sit and make myself a new list of to do (a few) so that I can take at least an hour to do house chores before I sit to write, because that's what I did the first few days of Camp and I felt great before writing because I had crossed stuff and everyday the house looked better and after an hour or two of writing even if I didn't managed much I felt incredibly accomplished and successful and I want to feel that on the daily, I've needed that feeling the past few days so a reset it is!❤
What is crazy is You are part of my reset. I just have to play one of your video and I get back to 100% motivation. Thx so much ! Kisses form France (révolution !)
Another excellent and honest video. I have found audio books are thing for busy moms ( I have three) so you can listen to stories while cooking/meal prep or listen while in the drop off or pick up line or while waiting for anything. I also have created individual playlists for each story/series on Spotify which helps keeps me in the zone/ mindset.
Sarra, thank you so much for this-- it's exactly what I needed to hear! And thank you for your bravery and strength in putting yourself out there to share with us! I'm really looking forward to going on this journey with you. Love to you and your family ❤
Feeling this!! I’ve been off for two months thanks to first trimester sickness, and it’s been SO hard to get back into the game now that I’m feeling better. ❤ I just got a new planner (I’ve been on Google calendar for a while) and already I feel the spark of motivation returning 🎉
Thank you for another incredibly inspirational post! Good luck with your reset, with your writing and getting your passion back. I love your egg chair and can imagine how blissful it must be sitting there.
Weird thing but I used to live in Texas, and for some reason, you mentioning HEB was what I needed to kick myself into gear and be productive today. You always have something to say that I really resonate with even if it’s something silly like mentioning the grocery store I used to go to. 😂
This was a great video-very helpful and inspirational! Thanks for being so vulnerable and honest-you’re so correct on the state of the world. Thank God there’s nature and our families!
Thank you for this video! I really needed to hear this! I am a new writer and haven’t released a book yet but I have so many exciting ideas, but a few months ago I just felt overwhelmed with both writing and reading, so I just stopped all of it! And watching this video has really given me my spark back thank you! I want to do a little writers rest of my own! I am looking forward to watching the rest of the videos in this series, as I am sure it will keep encouraging me 😁🙌✍️
this is such a beautiful & inspiring video! i have been struggling with my writing lately as well and this has been really helpful. your energy is so warm and i truly appreciate your videos. i'm going to take some time to journal and figure out how i wanna reset and recenter myself with my writing and passions! ❤
I like your reset! I am cheering you on, do it!! One thought that crossed me, when you shared your walker ( which I think is a good idea!): Since you love to walk and talk about your book ideas, why not taping your phone or Ipad onto the walker and scheduling calls or zoom calls with friends, so you can talk and brainsorm with them while exercising on the walker?
Thanks so much. Encouraging words, as usual. I personally reset my passion for writing, when I found the HBWC about 18 months ago, And the live sprints a year ago. Quite the journey
Thank you for your encouragement and inspiration. I've been struggling quite a bit lately. When you were talking about organization I thought of Cass from Clutterbug here on RUclips. She has great videos on organization that might be helpful to you. She always says, you're not a messy person it's just you haven't found the organizing style that suits you best. Once I knew my style I've been able to organize my entire house so much better! Good luck with everything, Sarra. Thank you again I really needed to hear this today!
Loved this video, and love seeing how you're going to prioritize your time and life to bring the joy back - long may it last! Also got me thinking about what else I could be doing to bring joy back to my life and writing too.
I am so much in awe of you!! I know first hand how easy procrastination and distraction becomes when you are anxious. I would love to know how you deal with that❤
I'm trying my best to kind of put together an anxiety toolbox for myself. I think it's something people who haven't experienced it just don't fully understand but I'm determined to do everything I can to get through it!
Keep my fingers crossed for you ❤I am soooo in the same place and process at the moment 😄I, too, have been decluttering and simplifying my space and daily routines to make space in my head that could be used for finding the lost joy of writing. So, I really hope this will work out for you and I am looking forward to hearing how it goes over time 🍀
You have helped me so much through your videos and HB90 course. I don’t know if I’ll ever actually be published, but I’ve rekindled my love for writing which has improved every other part of my life. Your reset is going to do wonders. You’re already shining so bright. Can’t wait for the craft book club!
U r already glowing Sara. It will happen for you by Allah’s will and ur smart planning🎉 and u r spot on with the food part. I struggle with my weight and I find that I am a totally different person when I m eating better. I am down now but I will follow ur footsteps in a bit. Hopefully, it will b a short bit😂
Thank you so much for 62,000 subscribers! Are you joining me on this writer reset? Have you chosen any areas of focus for yourself? Or are you just diving straight into the writing? Let me know in the comments, so we can cheer each other on!
Thank you so much for posting this part of your journey. I am in the same exact boat right now creatively and hearing that you are going through what I am brought me to tears. I didn't feel alone any more. I have been beating myself up because I have been stuck in a writer's block since 2020 and everything that happened. I am definitely joining you on this writer reset! I want to go back to having fun with my writing. I have so many more ideas to explore in my own book series, and I miss that joy that I used to have when writing. I've struggled with my health and a lot of big changes as well, including a move and finding a full time position teaching which I absolutely love and enjoy. I have been so happy and blessed in many ways but the stress of the world has also weighed heavy on my shoulders, and my health took a hit last year too. I'm slowly getting things back on track but my writing and creating has taken a back seat and I miss it so much. Thank you again for sharing your mindset and strategies, this has been so helpful. I look forward to the next video and making my own steps to finding the joy in creating again.
Congratulations on hitting 62K! 🎉❤
I'm chipping away at my Camp NaNo project. Frankensteining a new master for my WIP. (Currently behind.) Then, if I finish it by the end of the month I think I'm going to take a day or two to let my subconscious work before I talk to the folks at Atticus. My gut is telling me there's something I'm missing/vaguely onto on some level. I just need to figure it out.
@@Sailortwilight I'm in your boat! I'm looking forward to finding the joy again. My garden has been my saviour, but I miss my writing and I'm excited to come back to it. Good luck! 💌
I am absolutely joining in the reset! I am recovering from mold poisoning, which seriously affected my writing. And actually one of my biggest areas of focus will be schooling my kiddos. We homeschool and I tend to write better when we have had a successful school day. So I want to really refine our daily routines and get back to doing full schedules again. 🥰 Looking forward to your vlogs on your reset!
This very week, I made myself write with these things:
1- Journal;
2- I took by next book from the pile, and made myself write (the act) by type the pages I wanted to read, then I heard Muse say "ok ok! I get it!" (500 words later)
3- Chose to tell a whole story in 100 words so I could finish something.
Then Muse came back to my main project!!! I had to make myself to write in order to bring back Muse.
I hope this helps someone ❤
Just the uplifting message I need to reset my own writing routine. I have been feeling uninspired ever since I was diagnosed with Cancer in November. Now, that I am in a routine of daily radiation, I want to create a schedule for writing that works not only around my job and treatments, but also around self-care, so I will be working all of these plus family and writing time into my reset: Work (so I don't fall behind), treatments (so I regain my strength), self-care (to assist the treatments in getting healthy again), family (to ensure my two autistic teens feel safe and loved) and writing time (to finally finish the conclusion to my book, lol!) It's a lot writing it all out, but I know I can balance all of it, I just need to organize my weeks better.
Diana I'm so sorry to hear this. I hadn't realized you were going through so much!
@@HeartBreathings Thank you. I am actually in good spirits, just so tired, it is hard to tap into my creativity right now. I thought after surgery I would have time to write while I was recovering, but that was a bit too optimistic, lol. I only have 4 more weeks of radiation, so I know things will get better from here. :)
Daily radiation is super hard and it gets harder as it goes along. I did a 42 day radiation/chemo treatment back in August and by the end I was exhausted. I just finished my maintenance chemo in March. When you plan, please make sure to give yourself a lot of grace. Plan for more than you think you’ll need and then double that.
I hope that whatever writing you can do while going through this experience helps you through the challenges of your recovery. Best to you!
At the end of this video you reminded me of my favorite quote about art: “Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one.” - Stella Adler
I can’t wait to see wait this quarter holds for you. I believe in you! 😘
I just want to say you have inspired me so much in the last couple of weeks. I've been in such a negative stressed space regarding my writing career that I couldn’t write for over three months. That along with health issues. So it's been difficult to reset until I decided to binge your videos and you touched me with inspiration and unfiltered relatable thoughts. Thank you so much and I'm excited for this writer reset series! Thank you for all your hard work and transparency. ❤
This means a lot, thank you! It's not always easy to admit what I'm really feeling because it does open me up to criticism but at the same time, I know I'm not alone. It's so hard to write from a place of stress, and I'm grateful that my videos have helped you in any way!
@@HeartBreathings I know how much anxiety that being open can create because criticism is the worst, but you're changing not only your life but others. Especially when it comes to running our own businesses in the writing sphere and having to be everything at once. While we may set expectations and goals it's okay not to meet them as long as we're still being true to ourselves. That literally changed my life. Your happy planner videos changed the way I plot and I didn't realize how much relying on Notion and things like that just really dampened my creativity and made it feel more like "work" than something I love, my passion.
My happy planners have literally made me so happy and I've plotted the end of my current series and just-- I could go on. Changing my space and making it less cluttered, new tools... I set a 15,000 word goal for Camp Nano this year and I'm already at almost 9,000, going for 10,000 by end of day and I've wanted to write even when I don't feel well. So for every criticism and naysayer, for every person who thinks they know better or certain things are unnecessary... just know there are fifty more of us who are thriving for the first time in a long time thanks to you being so open and amazing. You are a gem.
1 minute in and my heart aches… thank you for sharing this message. In late 2019 I decided to write my first novel Blood Moon: Book 1 of the Crescent Crown Saga an adult paranormal romance/urban fantasy. But the pandemic went down in the middle of writing… at first this was good bc I spent what would have been my commute time to work writing. But then I got Epstein barr virus (chronic stress/fatigue). Even still, I published in October 2020! Then my sister in law passed away and we took guardianship of her teenage son in spring 2021. Yet I was STILL determined to publish the sequel and did so October 2021 while I was also planning my wedding 🤦🏼♀️ and still suffering EBV.
Finally in 2022 I couldn’t do it all anymore and sought answers as to why I felt tired and brain fog and that’s when I finally got my diagnosis. So I hadn’t written anything for a year and a half.
I’m still recovering but as I’ve been getting some better energy days the inspiration has kicked in again. So low key, when I feel up to it I’ve been writing again! I’m publishing a new dark romance fantasy series on Kindle Vella called A Promise So Dark & Wicked as a way to boost my confidence again and hopefully build a reader base. I’m SO excited for this story. But I also remind myself I gotta get good sleep and can’t write late anymore like I used to 😂😅
Thank you thank you thank you. We MUST care for ourselves and our families first and overcome internal challenges to succeed on the external, too! It sucks when bad things happen to us, when we don’t feel well, or the muse is on vacation - I’m glad this is such a supportive writing community! We will get through it together and be stronger on the other end ♥️ Remember to fill your muse’s cup first with good content and she will come back to you in time!
So glad this resonates. It sounds like you have had a really tough few years. Your book sounds great just from the title! And that's fun about the Vella series!
“You need you.” - what a wonderful phrase to hear this morning while listening to you encourage yourself, others and me forward. Thank you for your video. ❤
Girl, same boat! Pass me an oar! Its crazy how similar our current situations look! Thank you for your transparency and honesty. It helps just knowing I'm not the only one... But also, putting words to everything I've been feeling and hearing it said out loud doesn't just make me feel validated, but motivated to actually make steps forward. Thank you! Praying for your journey forward, and that your joy is sparked and you can have some really fire writing sessions soon!
🚣♀️ I'm so glad it resonated with you!
I totally agree--organization helps unclutter the mind. When I moved last year, I set up every drawer, closet, and cupboard to extraordinary organization. Everything has a home! It's made a world of difference. Moving takes so much energy and mind space. Now that you're settled, the words will come. :-)
I love to hear this!!
We appreciate your effort and hard work on this channel. May God bless you.
Thank you so much Sophia!
So I’m only 2 min into this video and I’m already in tears. Target audience definitely reached! My writing life has felt alot like what you’re describing and it’s been hard to come back to the joyfulness of my story world. I’m grateful to say that my characters are still there (they normally leave after I haven’t given them enough attention) but it’s been such a struggle to get back to focusing on them. It’s been breaking my heart. I feel more hopeful knowing I’m not alone in this and that there is a way out!
We are in this together! I know we can find that joy again
You reminded me how much getting your workspace organized allows your thoughts to drift and settle, your anxiety and frustrations to dissipate so you can settle down and create. Im in a hotel writing while my kid is at a dance convention and juggling, running and bananas telling myself there are seasons to life...and my creative seasons before kids now have to share the creation of my kids. its a lot.. just do what you can each day and that's enough...xo
Yes it is enough!!
I'm watching this video on a Monday morning. If you've ever wondered the impact you make, please know that your words are soaking in. When you grow up in a home where you equate love with productivity, sitting down to write when the well is dry triggers anxiety and depression. I've not put out a book in two years. It was good, but it was forced. When my husband was diagnosed with cancer, all creativity dried up. Because of this ingrained need to be productive, I started taking classes. Masterclass at first, then Mark Dawson, all the way to now. I enjoy educating myself because I truly believe the day you think you know everything is the day you begin to stagnate. Nobody likes "stinkin' thinkin', including me. I'm 30k into this story, and need a reset. I believe in signs and, as I watch this, I have one. A little dragonfly spoke volumes.
I am resetting *everything* this quarter! I started writing in a new genre and plan to launch a new pen name next year. I've tried and failed before, throwing my heart and soul into my books and realising that they're so difficult to advertise that readers can't find them. So, I'm trying again. Fall six times, rise seven. This thing isn't going to beat me.
I love to talk out my story issues on my phone's voice recorder and then listen later. When I listen, it feels like I'm hearing someone else and often I can find the flaws in my thinking and come up with even better ideas. I can also catch myself being negative about my writing and reframe my thinking. It has helped me tremendously.
Oh I'm so encouraged by this!! So happy to hear it's worked so well for you!!
I can't tell you how much I appreciate your willingness to share your life in such an open and vulnerable way. It provides me with so much comfort and inspiration to watch your videos and I hope you realize how much good you're putting into the world. It makes a difference. 🥰
This really means more than I can say. Thank you
I really appreciate your honesty and transparency in communicating your struggles with your writing journey. Thank you for sharing your reset plans. It's definitely a needed message in the world today. I look forward to seeing you go through this journey. I have a project I'm working on that I really need to finish and all of your tips will be most welcome.
I love the honesty in the intro. I had the same. Issue for about a year. Between September 2021 and September 2022 I did not do much. I am currently revising and I have been productive since January 2023🎉😊.
I found you a few months ago as a writer looking to improve my technique and productivity. What I didn’t realize was how much I needed your planning videos! I used to be a go getter, then for about 10 years I’ve had physical and mental health issues. Getting on track again has been like slogging through mud. You’ve inspired me in more ways than one. I love how you make planning pretty and fun, and you motivate me to do it. The act of planning has helped me immensely! Im getting more writing done but I’m also doing better in other areas of my life. Thank you for all you do. ❤
I love to hear this!! It's made such a difference in mine too!
I know you have been struggling, you have been so honest and willing to share - but you are a TRUE inspiration! You have been through a crazy couple of years (moves, kids, health -- all of it!!) Thank you for sharing your reset! Just know all of us 'sisters of the pen' are pulling for you as you launch your rocket towards joy and satisfaction with your writing. Stay strong!! xoxo
Thank you - so authentic and inspiring, we are all in this challenging world together trying to create and take care of ourselves and our families. Beautiful living by example to show us your gorgeously organized and WIP world and life. Love it! So helpful and loving to share with us, much appreciated. 🥰
Such an inspiring and uplifting vlog, Sarra. So much of what you said resonated, especially scrolling social media and healthy eating. We are what we watch and what we eat. Also, stress. We unexpectedly had to move house and I feel like I’ve lost the last four months. Now we’re settled in, I need to get back to the joy of writing and creativity. I’m excited to see you re-find that passion for writing and I’ll be supporting you from the sidelines, whilst implementing a lot of what you’ve suggested ♥️
I too get super excited to get a new planner, journal or pretty much any office supplies like a big ol nerd! ❤❤❤❤
Such a great analysis of why your writing isn't working. I've noticed this as well. I need a stable life to do the mental prep work to write. If that isn't possible, then I'd best focus on other things that make me happy because that may lead to inspiration.
Your problem has never been the writing. I've been amazed at how thoughtful and loving how you lead your community... so that WE can write. But if that means that you can't write anymore, then that would be a shame. Great job at resetting your writing life. I love this video.
Thank you so much for this, Sarra. It’s reassuring and inspiring to know that even authors with a beautiful career can struggle with self doubt and writing. It is really great that you are taking so many of us along with you on this inspiring journey. I hope we all find joy in our writing again:)
Thank you, sarra, for all your encouragement and inspiration!! I'm looking forward to this series. I've been feeling uninspired for quite some time now with health issues that have taken over my quality of life and functionality, I still find I'm grieving the old version of myself in ways. As well as dealing with home renovations for the last several years. It's been rough, to say the least. My writing and a lot of my goals have been put on pause over the last two years, and I'm looking forward to finding the spark once again. Thank you for always being so vulnerable with us. That takes courage within itself, and I just want to know how much I commend you for that. You're a beautiful soul, and I'm so glad I've found this community 💗 xoxo
Thank you for the video! My heart is warmed every time I watch you, and I’m not only inspired but also excited and happy at the same time
Thanks for the encouragement, Sarra! Good luck to you, too! Btw, the lavender & lilac colors are lovely! And the dragonfly necklace is pretty! 💜
Thank you! It was a gift from a subscriber and I love it!
You know what I can envision in your beautiful garden. I mini highland cow. You’d need two, they require company, but imagine going out in the morning and stroking cows. How inspiring. But if cows aren’t your thing, joy will come. Evie is still a baby, and you have those hormones still, buzzing around. Be kind, Sarra, you’re doing a lot. You make videos, you organize a lot, I think you are a serial organizer, it makes you feel good. Get settled, get a routine and joy will come. ❤
This really spoke to my soul, Sarra. Especially the last part about pursuing our joy and creativity even when it feels "wrong" (my word) to do so in the midst of all the atrocities going on.
I've really been spiraling down lately, and I know that writing will lift me back up. Also staying offline and not obsessively following all the news. Working on movement and eating better, too. :)
Thank you for your tranparency and compassion. When I finish my next book, you're going in the acknowledgments!
I love what you said it in this video. I have chosen to take writing slow and steady but to keep pushing. Cheering you on!
Thanks for sharing your plans, and for the encouragement. Each person finds their joy in their own way. And it truly never is too late to start over. 💜
Ah yes i too have been feeling stuck. So glad to see some ideas for getting back on track. Hang in there with making the changes:)
I think the last few years have negatively impacted a lot of creative people. I have seen a lot of other creatives hit their walls, and need to regroup and refocus. I am also with you, too, as a writer and an artist.
I’m so very encouraged by your videos! Thank you for being and sharing your authentic self!
I've been in a writing slump for almost a year. My husband lost his job the end of February and we're having to move at the end of August, where we don't know. Two weeks ago my father lost his battle with cancer, after a 20 year fight. I am so overwhelmed with everything that I feel like giving up, but I know writing is my calling. I've known since the age of 15. I am currently drafting book two in my YA series, but I'm finding it difficult to want to write. (I published book one and a poetry book after taking P&T last year!) I want to join you on this writer reset. I NEED to do this. I always find inspiration in your videos and I'm going through the P&T course again in hopes that it'll get me excited about writing again. Love you Sarra and I thank you!
Thank you for sharing your struggles. They help the rest of us who are also struggling. Ever since my husband died, I have been in the negative spiral that you mentioned. I'm just now coming out of it and wanting to reclaim my passion for writing.
So sorry to hear of your loss. ❤️
@@HeartBreathings Thank you. It's been almost 3 years, and reading books has been my escape. It's so true what you said about needing that during hard times.
I love the way you look at things. The amount of support you have is amazing.
Okay I deleted my first comment because wanted to really hear your whole video and think about it. I've been watching you for years and I absolutely love you. You are one of my writing mentors. I have been in the same position; homeschooling two children, renovating an old house, blogging and a youtube channel, patreon, writing. I have published 31 books in 8 years but haven't written fiction in 5 of those years. For me, I was spread too thin. I recently let everything go but my writing craft (and children of course) and unplugged 98% from the internet. I have been, like you, filling up on fiction, music, playing and good movies. My fiction writing mind has returned full force. Food for though.
As wonderful as it would be, I do not make a living with my writing, so the pressure isn’t there. I remember my older brother saying you enjoy a hobby more when it’s not your job, and you’ve gone through so many major life changes since that time you were the most productive. You’re bound to slow down after all that. Then there’s the effect that happens when you realized you achieved something you’ve dreamed of. One might tend to coast a bit and enjoy the benefits of hard work. So, there are no big surprises there. It’s all normal.
I love you…I’m not a writer, but I am an entrepreneur. Your videos help me feel like I’m not alone in the struggles, so thank you for being willing to be vulnerable ❤❤
This really touched my heart thank you
Thank you, thank you, thank you for adding chapters and mentioning that listening to the eating portion isn't for everyone. 🥰
You are right. Thank you!
I haven’t worked on any serious projects since nanowrimo 2020. That changed just last night. I had a story idea and started outlining and brainstorming for a story bible. I even wanted to get my whiteboard out of storage! Sometimes life gets busy, and we don’t always have the mental space for writing…even if it brings us an immense amount of joy. I hope you’re able to work through it and come out the other side. ❤
I didn't need this series when you first posted it, but it's just what I need now. Thanks for always having such heartfelt, empathetic advice to offer your fellow writers. ❤❤
I identify with so many things you share on this channel. Thank you for sharing. It helps me to know I'm not alone in my experience.
Last segment had me in tears. I didn’t know how much I needed to hear those things. Thanks Sarra!
Thank you so much for posting this, I too have been really struggling with this and can really relate to a lot of what you said, especially about the toxicity online and how it affects you. You’re such an inspiration Sarra and I’m sending you lots of love as you journey through your writer reset ❤
I have a treadmill pad and a relatively inexpensive IKEA up-down desk. I do appreciate your idea about tying walking into family time. Making it the first and last hour of my working day in my study has made all the difference creatively. I hope you find your own best way, Sarra
That's such a great idea!
Thank you for this video. I have been pulled away from writing for almost 2 years due to my partners failing health. I will watch your journey to reset. Good luck. I miss writing SO much too!
Yet another video that hit me right in the gut! Your words of wisdom and encouragement are what every aspiring writer needs to hear every day. We need more people like you who have the courage to earnestly follow their dreams so others can be inspired to not give up on theirs. A writer retreat is just what I need to recharge and rekindle my creativity again. Thank you, Sarra, for being a voice of hope in the online community 💜
I needed this video. I've been letting things slip since the beginning of the year and it's been such a gradual progression, I didn't really even notice it until you said some of the things you said. Thank you for the wake up call!
It's amazing how much food affects every aspect of our lives. I don't have PCOS, but I struggle with sleep too. My diet has a lot to do with my sleep struggles, mood, energy, ability to focus.... Why is food so hard???... I have Communication in my top five Strengths too and am highly verbal. I have to talk everything through, especially what I'm writing - my husband is willing, but he doesn't get my genre at all. It's one of the things I've realized has been holding me back a little. I currently don't have anyone to talk about my writing with. That's one of my projects this quarter - find some writing buddies I can actually talk to, rather than just messaging...The view from your backyard is gorgeous. I can't wait to see how the garden progresses... Organization is such a struggle for me, but it really does affect writing! I get anxious with clutter... but I'm terrible about tidying up as I go. I let my desk get to the point where it looks like a Cat 5 hurricane hit it... I feel you on the couch - I have a chair in my office that I bought specifically so I could read in it... it's been nothing but extra storage for books for months... Thank you for being so open with your ups & downs, successes & struggles. You are truly inspirational and I don't know where we'd be without you.💖
Wow, this is super amazing. I have been wanting to get back to writing for a long time but I wasn't really enjoying myself when I was writing because it felt like another homework/ project assignment. which is sad because the writing was my favorite creative outlet. Thank you so much for being inspiring me to never give up and restart my writing again.
i'm so grateful for this video! I have been stressed about work and have totally neglected my personal goal for campnano which was supposed to bring me joy... and now that they fired and have to sue them (!)... I've been so anxious and it's been hard breathing normally... and still... all I can think of is "but I have to clean and organize before writing"... anyway, this is exactly what I needed to remember that I'm not crazy, I'm not the only one going through hard times, and there is a way moving forward
I'm so sorry that happened! I was going through that kind of breathless, panic anxiety in late 2021 and it's so hard to focus when you don't feel safe!! Do what you need to do, and it's going to be okay!
Bluebonnets!! That never gets old no matter how long you've lived in Texas.
I'm halfway through the video as I type this and it's like I'm hearing my own story. Thank you for sharing this video and creating the Writer Reset workbook. I will absolutely join in that reset.
I think a lot of us have been struggling so let's support each other to get back to the fun!
@@HeartBreathings absolutely!
Thank you so much for doing videos on this right now! It's perfect timing for me. I put aside writing for years while I went to nursing school and now I'm beginning to settle into my new career and I'm itching to do my own writer reset. I miss that writing spark just like you were saying! Looking forward to these videos!
You are a Writer Sarrah!! I just finished what I believe was your first book, and I loved it. The character development and plot was amazing! I am a legal consultant,representing many abused women and kiddos’s ,and this book really spoke to me. Soooo…..You’re Def an amazing writer, and we all understand sometimes life just gets in the way. I’m confident you will bounce back even mightier than before. Stay Strong! 💓💓🙏🙏🙏
Oh I love this! Just what I needed :) I feel the same about my younger self - she would NEVER believe me if she knew I make a living from poetry books!
Thank you so much for sharing this with us. I feel that you are a HUGE inspiration to a lot of us, especially myself. I have been a published author since 2013 but didn't really get into my groove (writing and publishing) until 2017. I have enjoyed watching your videos as they give me inspiration and motivation to keep writing. These past few years have really been rough though. I had been dealing with health issues since June 2021, which was when I quit my full-time job. Last year, I finally left a toxic relationship of three years. All of this had led to severe stress, anxiety, and depression. I had been struggling to write and this year I was finally able to put myself first and get myself back on track and find my passion for writing again. Self-care is important. Thank you for sharing your author journey with us. I hope you are able to find your creative spark again. ❤
Great Video Sarra. I'm also going through a writer reset, but my journey is different than yours and I will not bore you with the details. I plan on watching this series and I'll let you know how I'm doing as well. Writing a Dark Urban Fantasy Novel called Nefarious. It's set in 1903 in Virginia. Good Luck getting back on track and we can travel on this journey along with others together.
Thanks for verbalizing what I need to do to get back to my writing
It’s two months ago for you however this video just popped up for me while looking for tips on getting my writerly self plugged back in and flowing productively. What a gift your shared reset series is - thank you so much. ❤
Thank you for watching!
Thank you so much for this video. I am one of the people who very desperately needed to hear this 💚 I appreciate you sharing your journey, and I treasure the truth and encouragement you share. Super excited to get caught up on this series!
Sarra, you could not have timed this video better for where I'm at right now. FANTASTIC VIDEO HERE. Thank you so much for this one. Cheers
This was great to see, Sarra! Very inspiring, as usual. I'm actually away on a writing retreat on my own this weekend, so this video came at the right time. Let's do this!
So fun! I hope you have a great trip and that the words flow! 🙌
You could have been talking directly to me through most of this...thank you for sharing!
Ahh thank you for this! I'm so glad you started sharing about PCOS because I started looking into it and asking my doctor, and have nearly all the symptoms myself so my doctor said most likely have PCOS also - so thank you for sharing because I don't think I would've discovered this otherwise!
Also hearing you talk about the struggle to wake up / be productive in the morning was HUGE because I've had that since I was a teen and literally nobody gets it!! Family and even my husband don't totally get it lol, and I think they think I should be able to push through it, so it's so validating to hear someone else with that experience. Makes it less "I'm doing something wrong" and more "this is something I deal with but there are things I can do to make it better."
p.s. one thing my doctor suggested that really helped me with the cortisol overload aka stress hormone, was taking Ashwaganda at night - 1,000% recommend looking into it if you're still dealing with that sleep stuff/stress!
I saw that you had liked some of the same PCOS Instagram posts I have so I wondered if you’d been dealing with this! I have been drinking ashwaganda in my coffee but in the morning and now I’ve given up coffee almost completely but I’ll have to look into it!!
I have sent for the reset workbook. Stress has definitely been a issue for me I have found myself with extreme adrenal fatigue. So working on myself while resetting my joy of writing also. Thank you so much for letting me know I am not alone in this struggle
Sending love
Thank you, beautiful Sarra! You are an incredible inspiration. I am also an emotional writer - so this is lovely to hear and inspiring for deep personal reflections!
I started the month so strong... I followed your steps and told myself that I should mark weekends as off and gave myself the days I know my kids would be out of school off, my birthday also was marked as off. Then I told myself to have a plan of attack and gave myself a Camp goal of 10,000 as it took me 3 months to write over 10,000 on Q1. I also prepared the house by cleaning a bunch and making a list of what I could do each day to feel accomplished. And I reached 10,000 in 10 days but then my period came, kids out of school days that weren't planned came and the realization that I needed to do some research for my story I didn't tought about(flowers, dress and lace designs for my lead wedding preparations 😅) and I've been writing less, still trying to at least work on it daily while on a week day. But I think that you are right, the visual clutter stresses me out and this past week I neglected it, specially the living room where I mostly write, and it's been just nagging me. Watching your talk I have decided to sit and make myself a new list of to do (a few) so that I can take at least an hour to do house chores before I sit to write, because that's what I did the first few days of Camp and I felt great before writing because I had crossed stuff and everyday the house looked better and after an hour or two of writing even if I didn't managed much I felt incredibly accomplished and successful and I want to feel that on the daily, I've needed that feeling the past few days so a reset it is!❤
That last part?! ::chef's kiss:: I truly believe that with all my heart
Same, thank you!
Love your land! 💚It’s so grounding to get out in the garden.
What is crazy is You are part of my reset. I just have to play one of your video and I get back to 100% motivation. Thx so much ! Kisses form France (révolution !)
Another excellent and honest video. I have found audio books are thing for busy moms ( I have three) so you can listen to stories while cooking/meal prep or listen while in the drop off or pick up line or while waiting for anything. I also have created individual playlists for each story/series on Spotify which helps keeps me in the zone/ mindset.
Sarra, thank you so much for this-- it's exactly what I needed to hear! And thank you for your bravery and strength in putting yourself out there to share with us! I'm really looking forward to going on this journey with you. Love to you and your family ❤
Feeling this!! I’ve been off for two months thanks to first trimester sickness, and it’s been SO hard to get back into the game now that I’m feeling better. ❤ I just got a new planner (I’ve been on Google calendar for a while) and already I feel the spark of motivation returning 🎉
Thank you for another incredibly inspirational post! Good luck with your reset, with your writing and getting your passion back. I love your egg chair and can imagine how blissful it must be sitting there.
This is the best video I’ve seen on this topic, thank you so much for sharing!
Thank you! That means so much to me!
You are such a natural storyteller that I cried during your INTRO. 🤩
Weird thing but I used to live in Texas, and for some reason, you mentioning HEB was what I needed to kick myself into gear and be productive today.
You always have something to say that I really resonate with even if it’s something silly like mentioning the grocery store I used to go to. 😂
This was a great video-very helpful and inspirational! Thanks for being so vulnerable and honest-you’re so correct on the state of the world. Thank God there’s nature and our families!
Yes!!
I needed to hear /warch this. So important keep/find our joy in all this mess. Thank you for your honesty and transparency
I love your computer set up!
Thank you for this video! I really needed to hear this! I am a new writer and haven’t released a book yet but I have so many exciting ideas, but a few months ago I just felt overwhelmed with both writing and reading, so I just stopped all of it! And watching this video has really given me my spark back thank you! I want to do a little writers rest of my own! I am looking forward to watching the rest of the videos in this series, as I am sure it will keep encouraging me 😁🙌✍️
Finally watched this video today!What a wonderful message exactly what I needed to hear as I am experiencing some of the same things you are!
this is such a beautiful & inspiring video! i have been struggling with my writing lately as well and this has been really helpful. your energy is so warm and i truly appreciate your videos. i'm going to take some time to journal and figure out how i wanna reset and recenter myself with my writing and passions! ❤
❤️
This was incredibly motivating! Thank you for being so open and thoughtful with your channel. You are a blessing to my life!
Sarra, this video speaks to my heart. I desperately need a reset myself and your dedication is so inspiring.
I like your reset! I am cheering you on, do it!!
One thought that crossed me, when you shared your walker ( which I think is a good idea!):
Since you love to walk and talk about your book ideas, why not taping your phone or Ipad onto the walker and scheduling calls or zoom calls with friends, so you can talk and brainsorm with them while exercising on the walker?
Great tips and reset ideas! TFS and wishing you the best! ❤
Nice to see your living your best life in your new home!
Thank you so much Nadine!
Thanks so much. Encouraging words, as usual. I personally reset my passion for writing, when I found the HBWC about 18 months ago, And the live sprints a year ago. Quite the journey
This brings me so much joy!!
Thank you for your encouragement and inspiration. I've been struggling quite a bit lately. When you were talking about organization I thought of Cass from Clutterbug here on RUclips. She has great videos on organization that might be helpful to you. She always says, you're not a messy person it's just you haven't found the organizing style that suits you best. Once I knew my style I've been able to organize my entire house so much better! Good luck with everything, Sarra. Thank you again I really needed to hear this today!
Loved this video, and love seeing how you're going to prioritize your time and life to bring the joy back - long may it last! Also got me thinking about what else I could be doing to bring joy back to my life and writing too.
This was just everything i needed today. Thank you 🧘🏻♀️🌱🌲🌷
I am so much in awe of you!!
I know first hand how easy procrastination and distraction becomes when you are anxious. I would love to know how you deal with that❤
I'm trying my best to kind of put together an anxiety toolbox for myself. I think it's something people who haven't experienced it just don't fully understand but I'm determined to do everything I can to get through it!
Sounds great!! Would u mind sharing a little tip next coffee chat🤷
Keep my fingers crossed for you ❤I am soooo in the same place and process at the moment 😄I, too, have been decluttering and simplifying my space and daily routines to make space in my head that could be used for finding the lost joy of writing. So, I really hope this will work out for you and I am looking forward to hearing how it goes over time 🍀
It sounds like we are on a similar path! Sending you all good thoughts!
You have helped me so much through your videos and HB90 course. I don’t know if I’ll ever actually be published, but I’ve rekindled my love for writing which has improved every other part of my life.
Your reset is going to do wonders. You’re already shining so bright.
Can’t wait for the craft book club!
So happy to hear this!! Joy is powerful!
U r already glowing Sara. It will happen for you by Allah’s will and ur smart planning🎉 and u r spot on with the food part. I struggle with my weight and I find that I am a totally different person when I m eating better. I am down now but I will follow ur footsteps in a bit. Hopefully, it will b a short bit😂
Thank you so much!
It sounds like a great plan. I hope it is successful.
Thank you!