What do you think of when you picture yourself writing a book? If you’re like most people, you think of long solo sessions at your laptop, at home – or possibly in a coffee shop, for variety.
The thing is, if you want to write a book but you’re not already doing it, that image of the solo writing sessions might actually be slowing you down.
What I’ve discovered in my five years as a book midwife is that most creatives, yes, even the introverts, crave (and thrive in) community.
Even the introverts? Yes – hear me out. In a creative community, especially with like-minded folks, there isn’t the usual small talk and awkwardness that turns us off.
Instead we dive right in to the deep end, talking about new story ideas, odd dreams we had, what we’ve been reading, numerology, or any number of weird fun things.
For three years now, I’ve been running the Parallel PlayDates. It’s a virtual co-working session on Zoom where I take everyone on a guided meditation at the start, we play with a short writing prompt, and then we each do whatever it is we brought along to play with. There’s time for shares – what we’re working on, what messages we got in the meditation, new inspiration from the prompt, how life is going – and that’s when the magick happens. There’s so much creative energy.
The other magick is that people are getting things done, while having fun. Book chapters, yes, but also blog posts, emails for their business, afghans, edits, and more.
Having a community of Thriving Artists where you can show up each week, just as you are, and be not only accepted but seen and understood is powerful medicine.
If you want to write a book, or create any kind of long-form creative project, think about your own creative community. Do you have one? Do you want one? What would it feel like? Would you wish to join an existing group, or create your own? Are there people in your life that you’d invite in?
Maybe you’re ready for an in-person experience, and can seek out a local writing group. I like the virtual realm because it feels inclusive – there are creatives from many different geographical areas and backgrounds.
The Parallel PlayDates are a fun combination of witchy spirituality and creative focus. That’s the flavor over here, and I invite you to come and check out a session. I’d love to see this type of thing replicated all across the globe, so you should also feel free to take the idea and make it your own.
When creatives gather in community, the energy is empowered and expanded. It feels so free to be in a space where people get what you’re up to and cheer you on. It’s also useful to have the accountability of showing up and actually doing the work.
I’ve recently had the inspiration to change some of my offers and refresh my business overall, but I already know I’m keeping the Parallel PlayDates. Why? Because I’m right there with the attendees, writing, editing, and doing other creative stuff each week. I get so much out of them.
What does your inner wisdom say about my offer to join in? If your Muses are nodding vigorously and your heart sings a little song, follow their lead and come on in. The water’s fine.
