The centenarians in Blue Zones show us that when we become part of something larger than ourselves, we create a legacy that extends beyond our individual existence.

In our modern world of desk jobs and digital devices, we often find ourselves scheduling "exercise" as if it were another meeting on our calendar. But what if the healthiest way to move isn't about logging hours at the gym or training for marathons?

It’s absolutely wonderful and okay to have big goals and dreams. They’re often the driving force behind our creative work, giving us a sense of purpose and vision. 

The challenge comes when those big dreams start to feel overwhelming, making the gap between where you are now and where you want to be seem insurmountable. That’s where the concepts of redefining success, managing expectations, and adopting a growth mindset can help you stay grounded and on track.

Self-compassion helps mitigate the impact of setbacks, reduces performance anxiety, and fosters resilience in the face of rejection or creative blocks. This kinder, more understanding relationship with oneself can lead to increased productivity, enhanced creativity, and a greater sense of fulfillment in the writing journey.

Turns out, it’s not just writers who benefit from taking time to be creative. A Drexel University pilot study found coloring, doodling, and free drawing activate the reward pathways of the brain, which can help improve mental health and creativity for lots of folks.