I loved reading about your learnings and the beginner's mindset. It reminded me of a conversation I had with my husband just yesterday. We were reflecting on how, as adults, we often stop 'having fun'—whether it's playing tag, jumping around in excitement, or simply being uninhibited. Somewhere along the way, I convinced myself that I was 'too old' for these things and started worrying about what strangers might think if I allowed myself to have too much fun! :D But the truth is, saying yes to yourself and embracing joy can open up so many wonderful possibilities.
So sorry to hear you were unwell, Anne. I wondered what happened to your post. So glad you are feeling better. I love the way you begin this post, "opening to the page" -- it's really beautiful. I finally have my time back as my course has ended. Time to begin dreaming again.
When I began meditating, I took an online course with Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield, both wonderful teachers, really the best. I was so fortunate to begin my journey with them. I recently discovered Lama Tsultrim Allione, who has a centre in Colorado, Tara Mandala. One of her books is called Women of Wisdom. This is a path filled with magic.
Ooh, I need to look up Allione’s work. Thanks for sharing! And how lucky you were able to do a course with Brach and Kornfield. I’d love to do something like that someday!
Yes, Lama Tsultrim is inspired by the feminine divine. I feel fortunate to have found her. But then you have your writing retreat at Cummari. It too sounds divine!
I couldn't agree more with your experience of writing. It seems that every educator has their different style, and if you have learned from many, you find they contradict one another as much as they agree. Choosing how to navigate with all that information, makes each person's style unique.
I too caught that bug after arriving in Scotland. It was a doozy. Glad you are on the mend.
I was lucky it was only a 24 hour bug and at a nice BnB. They were so kind to me.
The rest of the trip was amazing! I rented an AirBnB that was the 3rd floor of the host's house in Glasgow. It was like my own apartment. Glaswegians are the friendliest people I have ever met. If I were a city girl, that would be my place. Too bad you were in France when I was there, we could have met for coffee. You will have to keep us informed of where you go in this world.
Hi Anne - this post resonated so much as I had been feeling that I was at the tipping point with "learning" to write and was doing more learning than actual writing of my fiction story. I am a self-confessed terrible edit-as-I-go writer and I have had to work on just writing what comes to mind and know it is not even close to being a final edit. I am also so much better at editing someone else's work than my own. But it is all a part of the journey and being present in the journey is also something I've had to learn in writing - and not being attached to the outcome.
Yes, Zen Buddhism has much to teach us as writers. Letting go out of the outcome, focusing on the present moment, honoring each part of the journey. It's all so important!
Enjoyed reading this and glad you are feeling better Anne. I love the exercise of testing the "yes" and the "no" and that has been my experience, too. YES is so empowering. The Untethered Soul also was a very impactful read for me. Love the ease with which you are approaching your novel, writing around the edges. I've started a new novel (my fourth) while the third is out in the world trying its luck with agents. The open page is my friend, my solace, my playground.
I love that you are writing the next one, opening yourself continually to the page, and not letting the path to publication consume your creative energy. I’m so glad my post resonated with you, Amy!
One of the most satisfying aspects of my recently completed PhD (Creative Practice) was the reflective exegesis, required to accompany the creative work, which explored the writing practice of other writers, thus developing my own 'rules'. In my field of creative biography some thought provoking examples of writers articulating thir writing practice come from Jay Parini, Julia Alvarez and anthologies edited by Michael Lackey (USA), Hilary Mantel (Reith lectures on BBC),David Lodge (UK), Kate Grenville and Kiera Lindsey in Australia where I live and work. These are just a few examples from a rich field of inspiration rather than prescription. I dream of finding my tribe of like-minded women writers in Sicily next year!
We’d love to have you in Sicily, Elizabeth! I hope you can join us. And what a wonderful list of authors whose practice has inspired you. I really enjoyed listening to/reading Mantel’s Reith lectures recently. They were recommended by my tutor. These others sound like great teachers too!
I sent an email to Michelle about joining the retreat ! I posted on notes 27 days ago looking for this kind of event and was so excited to see you hosting ! 🤌🏻🌞
I am a sucker for writing craft and inspiration books. I admit that I dive into each new one with a tiny hope that it will contain the one kernel of advice that will make all the difference to my process and in my work. Without a doubt, I have gleaned much from nearly all of them. I have become a more skilled and polished writer from absorbing the writing wisdom of folks like Colum McCann, Dani Shapiro, Matt Bell, Jane Friedman, Benjamin Percy, Lisa Cron.
But all of that advice and inspiration is for naught if I'm not actually WRITING. And the only thing that keeps me writing is writing. Right?! ;-) After completing four novels, I understand that each story will likely be approached from a different direction. I can't apply any particular method, at least not in the first, exploratory draft. I've learned that if I am spending time outlining or researching and becoming increasingly frustrated or distanced from the story and my desire for it, I need to stop and simply write. Research can be done later, as can an outline, in subsequent drafts. But I will only find my way into the story and my characters by writing. Not by plotting it out beforehand. That's just me: YMMV!
Wishing you good health and a blessed solstice, Anne. Thank you for this lovely, thoughtful post!
I have recently come to a similar conclusion, Julie, that writing advice that keeps me from writing my novel isn't helpful. I've spent years now, stuck trying to find the 'perfect' way to write, when of course that perfect way doesn't exist.
A month ago I returned to the notes I had made early in the process and to the rough draft I had of the opening chapter, and, guess what? that early work was (imo) really very good. I have spent the intervening time 'becoming increasingly frustrated' and 'distanced from the story'. A valuable lesson in learning to be present to the (often uncomfortable) process, I guess, rather than trying to find an easier, simpler solution.
I love this, Emma- I'm relearning this lesson right now, too, with a current novel-in-progress. I'm struggling to trust myself and struggling against the hard work of writing. When I know in my heart it's that very work that fulfills me and moves the story along. Sigh. I wish joy in the process and so glad you have found your way back!
It is so confusing, isn't it, that we can know how fulfilling the work is (even though it is hard) and yet we often want to skip it. This is the case for many things in life. I guess this is the human condition! I hope you too can find moments of joy in the process.
Thank YOU, Julie! I enjoyed reading your response, as always. It’s interesting to hear that each novel requires a different approach. I heard Kate Atkinson say that once as well, which intrigued me. Those of us new to novel writing may look for THE way to do it, but really there is no equation that will get everyone to the endpoint of a great story. Each one is a new journey!
I love this point about the "no"/closed vs. "yes"/open. I went to a writing conference recently where one of the presenters pointed out that most of us approach writing with a "good employee" mindset: to do everything right, on time, meeting others' expectations or other criteria, etc. She suggested that we switch that to an entrepreneurial mindset: do our research, put yourself out there, good enough is good enough--start somewhere! (Oh, and don't let perfectionism run the show!)
Great analogy! I like the idea of using a designer’s mindest as well. I discussed that in an earlier post about making life changes. But I think it applies to writing as well.
I did notice no post from you last week - but only because I have come to associate early Saturday mornings with your words, usually the first in my inbox 💌
So enjoyed reading this week's latest insights, and looking forward to more to come - including your episode with The Bibliotherpists! 📚
Anne, your experiment with saying “Yes” really resonated with me—it immediately brought me back to an improv class I took, where the concept of “Yes, and” became something I’ve cherished ever since. It’s such a simple yet profound way to approach creativity, relationships, and even life itself.
I also loved your reflections on beginner’s mind and tuning out the endless “don’t’s.” It’s a refreshing reminder that writing (or any creative pursuit) thrives when we allow curiosity and openness to guide us, rather than fear or perfectionism.
Thank you for sharing your process so authentically—it’s inspiring and grounding. Wishing you moments of flow and joy as you continue your writing journey!
I also thought of the "yes, and" improv exercise! As a librarian in my professional life, I have always thought that "yes, and" is a model for good reference service. You never know who is going to walk through the door, or what they may be looking for. "Yes, and" opens up all sorts of avenues for exploration.
Robin, I love how you’ve connected "Yes, and" to reference service—it perfectly captures the spirit of curiosity and possibility libraries embody. It’s a beautiful reminder that this mindset isn’t just for creativity but also for fostering empathy and collaboration in everyday interactions. Thank you for sharing this perspective!
Hi Anne, oh my, I relate so hard to the list of don'ts being overwhelming. When I was working on my manuscript, I couldn't take any feedback or how tos or writing advice, because my brain didn't have the space to filter out the feedback while creating. I also had to shut out all feedback during a crucial time of building my business too.
Related - I am so excited about your writing retreat with Cummari!!! 💕💕💕
Hi Laura—I’m happy to know that you have been successful in shutting out all the voices when you need to! There are just too many in today’s world. I yearn sometimes for pre-Internet, pre-podcast days.
Oh my gosh when I first came across your writing I thought to myself ‘I’d love a chance to meet Anne Boyd & even learn something from her’ I also remember madly googling Cummari & dreaming up ways to get there & just be.
This here is like a delicious dream coming alive!!
Hello. Just found this Substack community. I sent an email asking to join the retreat in Sicily. What an exciting opportunity!
Wonderful! I hope you can join us. :)
I loved reading about your learnings and the beginner's mindset. It reminded me of a conversation I had with my husband just yesterday. We were reflecting on how, as adults, we often stop 'having fun'—whether it's playing tag, jumping around in excitement, or simply being uninhibited. Somewhere along the way, I convinced myself that I was 'too old' for these things and started worrying about what strangers might think if I allowed myself to have too much fun! :D But the truth is, saying yes to yourself and embracing joy can open up so many wonderful possibilities.
I am also trying to relearn how to have fun, Margarita! How sad that so many of us lose that over the years...
Yes, indeed! I’m so glad my post resonated with you, Margarita!
So sorry to hear you were unwell, Anne. I wondered what happened to your post. So glad you are feeling better. I love the way you begin this post, "opening to the page" -- it's really beautiful. I finally have my time back as my course has ended. Time to begin dreaming again.
When I began meditating, I took an online course with Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield, both wonderful teachers, really the best. I was so fortunate to begin my journey with them. I recently discovered Lama Tsultrim Allione, who has a centre in Colorado, Tara Mandala. One of her books is called Women of Wisdom. This is a path filled with magic.
Still opening...
Ooh, I need to look up Allione’s work. Thanks for sharing! And how lucky you were able to do a course with Brach and Kornfield. I’d love to do something like that someday!
Yes, Lama Tsultrim is inspired by the feminine divine. I feel fortunate to have found her. But then you have your writing retreat at Cummari. It too sounds divine!
Thanks, Elaine! I’m so looking forward to it. Join us, if you can!
Thanks, Anne, but I'm going to Mexico next week for a few months to escape the winter. I have a condo there. I plan to read, write and meditate.
I couldn't agree more with your experience of writing. It seems that every educator has their different style, and if you have learned from many, you find they contradict one another as much as they agree. Choosing how to navigate with all that information, makes each person's style unique.
I too caught that bug after arriving in Scotland. It was a doozy. Glad you are on the mend.
Oh, sorry to hear that, Amber. I hope you had a great time on your trip, nonetheless.
I was lucky it was only a 24 hour bug and at a nice BnB. They were so kind to me.
The rest of the trip was amazing! I rented an AirBnB that was the 3rd floor of the host's house in Glasgow. It was like my own apartment. Glaswegians are the friendliest people I have ever met. If I were a city girl, that would be my place. Too bad you were in France when I was there, we could have met for coffee. You will have to keep us informed of where you go in this world.
Yes, it’s too bad we missed each other. I’m so glad that the illness was brief and that you had a great trip!!! :)
Hi Anne - this post resonated so much as I had been feeling that I was at the tipping point with "learning" to write and was doing more learning than actual writing of my fiction story. I am a self-confessed terrible edit-as-I-go writer and I have had to work on just writing what comes to mind and know it is not even close to being a final edit. I am also so much better at editing someone else's work than my own. But it is all a part of the journey and being present in the journey is also something I've had to learn in writing - and not being attached to the outcome.
Yes, Zen Buddhism has much to teach us as writers. Letting go out of the outcome, focusing on the present moment, honoring each part of the journey. It's all so important!
Enjoyed reading this and glad you are feeling better Anne. I love the exercise of testing the "yes" and the "no" and that has been my experience, too. YES is so empowering. The Untethered Soul also was a very impactful read for me. Love the ease with which you are approaching your novel, writing around the edges. I've started a new novel (my fourth) while the third is out in the world trying its luck with agents. The open page is my friend, my solace, my playground.
I love that you are writing the next one, opening yourself continually to the page, and not letting the path to publication consume your creative energy. I’m so glad my post resonated with you, Amy!
One of the most satisfying aspects of my recently completed PhD (Creative Practice) was the reflective exegesis, required to accompany the creative work, which explored the writing practice of other writers, thus developing my own 'rules'. In my field of creative biography some thought provoking examples of writers articulating thir writing practice come from Jay Parini, Julia Alvarez and anthologies edited by Michael Lackey (USA), Hilary Mantel (Reith lectures on BBC),David Lodge (UK), Kate Grenville and Kiera Lindsey in Australia where I live and work. These are just a few examples from a rich field of inspiration rather than prescription. I dream of finding my tribe of like-minded women writers in Sicily next year!
We’d love to have you in Sicily, Elizabeth! I hope you can join us. And what a wonderful list of authors whose practice has inspired you. I really enjoyed listening to/reading Mantel’s Reith lectures recently. They were recommended by my tutor. These others sound like great teachers too!
We hope to welcome you here in Sicily next October - feel free to message us with questions you might have. ~ Miche
I sent an email to Michelle about joining the retreat ! I posted on notes 27 days ago looking for this kind of event and was so excited to see you hosting ! 🤌🏻🌞
Yes! Can’t wait to see you in Sicily, Brooke!
Hi Brooke! Lovely, I will message you back on Monday with full details. I look forward to hosting you here in beautiful Sicily.
I am a sucker for writing craft and inspiration books. I admit that I dive into each new one with a tiny hope that it will contain the one kernel of advice that will make all the difference to my process and in my work. Without a doubt, I have gleaned much from nearly all of them. I have become a more skilled and polished writer from absorbing the writing wisdom of folks like Colum McCann, Dani Shapiro, Matt Bell, Jane Friedman, Benjamin Percy, Lisa Cron.
But all of that advice and inspiration is for naught if I'm not actually WRITING. And the only thing that keeps me writing is writing. Right?! ;-) After completing four novels, I understand that each story will likely be approached from a different direction. I can't apply any particular method, at least not in the first, exploratory draft. I've learned that if I am spending time outlining or researching and becoming increasingly frustrated or distanced from the story and my desire for it, I need to stop and simply write. Research can be done later, as can an outline, in subsequent drafts. But I will only find my way into the story and my characters by writing. Not by plotting it out beforehand. That's just me: YMMV!
Wishing you good health and a blessed solstice, Anne. Thank you for this lovely, thoughtful post!
I have recently come to a similar conclusion, Julie, that writing advice that keeps me from writing my novel isn't helpful. I've spent years now, stuck trying to find the 'perfect' way to write, when of course that perfect way doesn't exist.
A month ago I returned to the notes I had made early in the process and to the rough draft I had of the opening chapter, and, guess what? that early work was (imo) really very good. I have spent the intervening time 'becoming increasingly frustrated' and 'distanced from the story'. A valuable lesson in learning to be present to the (often uncomfortable) process, I guess, rather than trying to find an easier, simpler solution.
I love this, Emma- I'm relearning this lesson right now, too, with a current novel-in-progress. I'm struggling to trust myself and struggling against the hard work of writing. When I know in my heart it's that very work that fulfills me and moves the story along. Sigh. I wish joy in the process and so glad you have found your way back!
It is so confusing, isn't it, that we can know how fulfilling the work is (even though it is hard) and yet we often want to skip it. This is the case for many things in life. I guess this is the human condition! I hope you too can find moments of joy in the process.
Thank YOU, Julie! I enjoyed reading your response, as always. It’s interesting to hear that each novel requires a different approach. I heard Kate Atkinson say that once as well, which intrigued me. Those of us new to novel writing may look for THE way to do it, but really there is no equation that will get everyone to the endpoint of a great story. Each one is a new journey!
I love this point about the "no"/closed vs. "yes"/open. I went to a writing conference recently where one of the presenters pointed out that most of us approach writing with a "good employee" mindset: to do everything right, on time, meeting others' expectations or other criteria, etc. She suggested that we switch that to an entrepreneurial mindset: do our research, put yourself out there, good enough is good enough--start somewhere! (Oh, and don't let perfectionism run the show!)
Great analogy! I like the idea of using a designer’s mindest as well. I discussed that in an earlier post about making life changes. But I think it applies to writing as well.
Get better soon
Thank you, Tanya! Yes, I’m feeling much better now. :)
I did notice no post from you last week - but only because I have come to associate early Saturday mornings with your words, usually the first in my inbox 💌
So enjoyed reading this week's latest insights, and looking forward to more to come - including your episode with The Bibliotherpists! 📚
Thank you Lauren! I’m so glad to know my words have become part of your Saturday mornings. It’s a great honor! :)
You're so very welcome!
Anne, your experiment with saying “Yes” really resonated with me—it immediately brought me back to an improv class I took, where the concept of “Yes, and” became something I’ve cherished ever since. It’s such a simple yet profound way to approach creativity, relationships, and even life itself.
I also loved your reflections on beginner’s mind and tuning out the endless “don’t’s.” It’s a refreshing reminder that writing (or any creative pursuit) thrives when we allow curiosity and openness to guide us, rather than fear or perfectionism.
Thank you for sharing your process so authentically—it’s inspiring and grounding. Wishing you moments of flow and joy as you continue your writing journey!
I also thought of the "yes, and" improv exercise! As a librarian in my professional life, I have always thought that "yes, and" is a model for good reference service. You never know who is going to walk through the door, or what they may be looking for. "Yes, and" opens up all sorts of avenues for exploration.
Robin, I love how you’ve connected "Yes, and" to reference service—it perfectly captures the spirit of curiosity and possibility libraries embody. It’s a beautiful reminder that this mindset isn’t just for creativity but also for fostering empathy and collaboration in everyday interactions. Thank you for sharing this perspective!
Thank you! I’m so glad this post spoke to you. Have a great weekend!
Hi Anne, oh my, I relate so hard to the list of don'ts being overwhelming. When I was working on my manuscript, I couldn't take any feedback or how tos or writing advice, because my brain didn't have the space to filter out the feedback while creating. I also had to shut out all feedback during a crucial time of building my business too.
Related - I am so excited about your writing retreat with Cummari!!! 💕💕💕
Hi Laura—I’m happy to know that you have been successful in shutting out all the voices when you need to! There are just too many in today’s world. I yearn sometimes for pre-Internet, pre-podcast days.
This is exquisite, so contemplative and very, very good food for thought. The page is where one can be one's truest self. 💜
Thank you! I’m so glad it resonated with you, Shreya!
Oh my gosh when I first came across your writing I thought to myself ‘I’d love a chance to meet Anne Boyd & even learn something from her’ I also remember madly googling Cummari & dreaming up ways to get there & just be.
This here is like a delicious dream coming alive!!
Aww, that’s so nice, Tiffany! I hope you can join us. :)