Content Warning!

This blog on occasion addresses depression, death, suicide and other sensitive themes. Continue at your own discretion in reading the content.

Saturday, January 17, 2015

Start the Road to Creativity

Hi All,

I mentioned in previous post that some people feel that they can't write. That it's something unattainable for them when in fact it's not.  Anyone can write, it's just that some feel they can't or don't know how to get started.  They want to journal write or attempt to write the novel in their head but are scared to do so.

Writing is like any other creative endeavor, it just needs to be nurtured so it can grow. It's a matter of finding the voice inside you and letting it out, to not be afraid of the words it speaks.  If anything, you must embrace the voice of creativity that lurks in  you.

Writing can take various forms - poetry, essay, short stories, and novels are just some examples of the things we can wield with a pen or a keyboard. Writing is more than communication, it's a voice that offers us insight and worlds unknown.  It is up to us to explore and share.

Over the years, I've been in discussions with people who are unsure how to get their creativity going and so today I offer a starting point to open the flood gates.  It's time to awaken the creative part of yourself!

The first part of this writing adventure is to get a journal book.  Any kind of book is fine but make sure it's one that will serve the purpose of your adventure. If you feel that you're more of a computer person then set up a folder for your writing to go in.  I would however recommend going the journal book route because your journal book is more organic in nature.  You can do things with it that you can't do with a computer.

To begin your adventure do the following:

1) Buy a journal book (or set up a special writing folder on your computer);
2) Make sure you have a good set of pens for writing;
3) Write down your writing goal(s) and write a brief description about it.

You're already on your way into the world of creativity.  Don't freak out about your writing goals.  You may not have any or maybe your goal is simply to try writing.

As always, I leave you with a musical treat.  Crank this up and get your groove on as Freddie King reminds us to "Let The Good Times Roll".

Rock on!
~Maynard






Saturday, January 3, 2015

The New Year Begins

Another year is in the books! The past year, 2014, flew by fast for me while I worked on my book and published it.  I started a new story in November which has the potential to be turned into my next published book if I choose or split into multiple books. 

The past year saw many creative projects for me besides writing and as 2015 starts I have plenty of creative projects I wish to accomplish this year.  One of those creative projects is working on a creative journal book.  I have made a rough copy of it. It's not meant to be a real book but the possibility is there.

Many people freeze up when it comes to writing or just trying to be creative.  The journal is more like a yearly planner but there are things to do per month like write down a quote that you connect with or go out and do a random act of kindness.  There is more to it but it is very simplistic.  Writing or being creative overwhelms people who normally are not in that mindset.  The journal is to help bridge that world.

I took up knitting again and hope to finish the scarf that I have begun.  I am using one of those looms you see in craft stores which makes it a bit easier than the traditional use of knitting needles.

I do want to make an attempt to take more photos.  I loved taking photos as a kid and while photos these days are digital it takes all the fun out of getting them developed and seeing what you get back.  I miss those days of submitting a roll of film.

Ah - the good ol' days.

I want to wish all of you a happy and wonderful 2015.  Now get creative!

~Maynard