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.