And now for something completely different!Keeping the gears oiled as a writer is always a challenge. The longer you do it, the more you tend to fall into patterns. So for today, I checked several word-of-the-day sites to find one word to base a column on. Just a way to pull me away from the norm, to step out of the box. It took awhile to select one because many had very negative connotations and that is not the spirit of what I want to bring to my writing. Finally one stood out.
Scenario -
1.an outline or synopsis of a play (or, by extension, of a literary work)
2. a setting for a work of art or literature
3. a postulated sequence of possible events
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| Image by Frya Saraci |
What I love about this word is that it offers empowerment if applied to your life. You can chose your outline; you can chose your setting; you can chose the sequence of events; you can paint your own canvas. While there are many things that happen we do not have any control over, ultimately there are hundreds of choices we make without thinking each day that affect the life we lead. The scenario I seem to live by is a shift every 4 -5 years in where I spend my time. I do not know if it is my attention span as I am a bit ADHD or genetic, but it's been that way for as long as I can remember. In addition to work changes, I have danced and performed, created custom dance costumes, taught myself to write and edit for magazines and more. The pressure is building as I write this as I have been in my current position for 4-1/2 years. The world is calling, where will it take me.
Writing and interviewing has changed me. I have learned it is a passion that cannot be denied. So to walk away as editor from 2 magazines takes away my ready outlet for publication. It's time to consider other scenarios where I can be prolific as writer, but continue to learn and grow. A full book is in the cards I think, certainly discussions have begun with a few people. As well, I have purchased everything I need to self-publish, but need time studying how to use the program professionally if I am to truly do a good job of it. This blog has been a great outlet, but it's time to take it to the next level. What will that level be.
I also think it's time for some side interests to get me away from the computer. I can get lost writing on it for hours and the body and mind need more to stay fresh. As I paint the scenario for the next few years in my mind, what do I see. Likely possibilities are a return to dance classes in some form. Whether this is alone or in partnership with my significant other is not clear yet. I burnt out sewing dance costumes, but the machines are still there. Can I find a way to explore this creative outlet that is satisfying? It's time to find out. If not, I need to let go of the fabric and machines that are taking up space and make room for a new interest. I took piano lessons for years and have a beautiful old upright grand in my living room sitting idle. It gives me joy just to look at it, but perhaps it's time to welcome it back into my life by playing it occasionally. And last but not least - one of my Facebook friends has been taking drawing classes. I am intrigued. Is there enough interest there, I'm not sure yet. But the idea is floating around waiting for a decision.
While this is a light column I sat down with just to stir the creative juices before I begin the articles I need to put my mind to, I hope it gives some food for thought to each of you. One interesting book I am perusing off and on is called The Happiness Project. I think the writer gets a bit obsessive about the whole thing, but there is a great premise put forward. It encourages one to evaluate how we would define happiness and set baby steps to move in that direction.
Enjoy your day. Spend a few moments looking at the scenario you have painted for yourself and see if there are adjustments to be made. OR perhaps it's time to throw away this canvas and start with a blank one. Sometimes it's time for a whole new direction. Be fearless!
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