Things that are helping

in case you need them now.

I have been struggling to write this week.

Generally, I am bursting to share when I get overwhelmed by life, but have found that the opposite is the case now. Words have been thin on the ground here.

If you, like me, are struggling at the moment, here’s what’s been helping me:

• Simple Formulas. I have a few things I enjoy eating for meals: smoked tofu, roasted veg, tomato soup, kimchi, quinoa, among others. I’ve created a formula lunch I can make with very little thought. When brain power is in limited supply, what can you do for yourself that takes little thought or effort? “Tomato soup for the win” would be a good t-shirt slogan¹.

• Helpful words. Recently, I watched this video, suggested by the algorithm on YouTube. I’ve known about Commonplace Books for ages, but something about Ruby Granger’s obvious delight in them has inspired me to actually create one. I spent an hour last night copying out quotations on happiness by hand from my Readwise to my new Commonplace Book. It helped.

• Conversations about writing and language. Even if I’m not working on my own writing this week, I’ve still met with clients and taught students. These conversations, in which we speak about the parts of writing and language we love, have been life-giving, as they always are. Speaking about what you love can help, even if you’re not actively engaging in those activities.

• These dingoes:

Clyde and Drakula, enjoying a cuddle between the day’s frequent wrestling matches. Hugo lurks behind, with his big feelings.

• Friends and loved ones. I feel very fortunate to be connected to many wonderful people around the world. One friend shared this beautiful idea, one that my friends and I already actively engage in, albeit in a slightly different form. If you need more connection with your people, a Wednesday Waffle tradition might do the trick (click through the image below to watch -it’s worth seeing the full explanation. I love that a group of men do this together.)

ruokanyday

A post shared by @ruokanyday

• Honor where you are. We all have points when we feel shaky, when life knocks us off balance. I’ve always thought of this as Wintering, ever since Katherine May wrote her book of that name. If it’s winter for you in this moment, make it a cozy one, as best you can.
  
  Above all, know that it’s not just you. Lots of love from Berlin, from under my blankets and a ginger kitty.

1. A friend of mine recently showed up for a lunch date with a heavy-metal-band-style t-shirt that just said SOUP. Needless to say, this made my day.