What I've learned as a graduate

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What I've learned as a graduate

The idea of life after graduation reminds me of the ending of a fairy tale. We assume it will be a “happily ever after” scenario. I think of it more as the beginning of the story. Where the characters go through trial and error, meet setbacks, and have to find their inner strength and power through to defeat the villain.

It is not so simple as going from graduation to a few weeks of job hunting to landing your first job. While it’s been difficult for me to find my footing, I can honestly say it’s still been a new learning experience for me.

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My favourite YA books from my childhood

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My favourite YA books from my childhood

The other day, I was thinking about the books I used to read when I was growing up. I wish I could pick the books off the shelf, but I donated a lot of my old books a few years ago. Looking back on the books I enjoyed reading is fun.

It helps me to reflect on the literature that shaped me as a young girl. How what I read ultimately influenced my taste in literature and my love for creative writing and preference for storytelling, my own, and by other creators of film, tv, and books

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Journal Prompts For Finding Clarity

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Journal Prompts For Finding Clarity

I know I’m not the only one to finish high school and feel less prepared for university AND for the post-university part that comes afterward. Put a bunch of graduates together in a room and they’ll probably all say the same thing: “what the heck am I supposed to do now?”

In saying that, I think a big part of growing up is that you’re never fully prepared for anything. You’ll never have all the answers at once and you have to go-with-the-flow and collect those answers along the way.

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How to find the time and energy to write

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How to find the time and energy to write

There are so many barriers and negative thoughts that can eat away at one’s sense of productivity or their creativity when it comes to the art of creative writing.

Especially, when you’re a new, aspiring writer when you’re working on your chapbook, story, comic, or novel on the sidelines of your everyday life.

I call these barriers writer’s block, imposter syndrome, self-doubt, exhaustion, perfectionism, fear of the future, and, of course, life in general.

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Different ways to fill empty journals: part 1

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Different ways to fill empty journals: part 1

So, it’s that time of the year when the pages are starting to become fewer and fewer in my bullet journal. When that happens, I run along to my favourite stationery store, wishing, wishing, that I will find a new journal for a decent price. And I did.

I love when $17 journals turn into $5 journals… It’s one of the best deals when you’re a journal enthusiast. The downside of that deal is I also end up buying more journals than I need. It’s in my nature! I can’t help it.

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How I make music playlists

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How I make music playlists

I mean it literally when I say I like to use music as a crutch. Most of the time I can’t do anything unless I have my earphones crammed into my ears. I listen to music to help me stay focused, inspire my imagination, to brighten my mood, and, occasionally, to also set the tone for the day or any activities I’m doing.

These days, one of my favourite activities to do is create my aesthetic music playlists. I like to think of them as modern-day mixtapes or records.

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My favourite quotes (part 3)

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My favourite quotes (part 3)

I can never get enough of quotes. My dream is to be that friend in the group who speaks when the room is silent and fills the empty void with a poetic verse or phrase from memory.

Or, if I’m lazy I’ll keep the quotes written down in a notes app on my phone for just the occasion. I’ve also considered turning some of my favourite quotes into daily quote cards for motivation.

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How I find inspiration for writing

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How I find inspiration for writing

There was a time when I hated researching and brainstorming details for the story I was working on. Now, I see it as a key part of the creative process. Ever since I have been seeking out new sources of ideas and inspiration when it comes to the stories I write (and aspire to write).

There are many things to research in the creative writing process. Such as ideas for names, places, and characters. Research is key because it shows you, as a writer, made an effort to add believability, originality, and authenticity to your creative work.

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Life lessons I learned in my 20s (pt. 2)

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Life lessons I learned in my 20s (pt. 2)

I am growing up, and that means I am open to more learning opportunities with each year that passes.

One thing I am starting to learn is that you will always be confronted by situations, circumstances, and events that will try to discourage you and leave you disheartened.

When that happens, it is so important to listen to your positive inner voice and reflect on the matter in a way that empowers you, instead of leaving you broken.

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How to make a cozy reading nook

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How to make a cozy reading nook

Every space in my bedroom has its purpose. My desk is where I work and blog. My bed is where I sleep or relax. My cozy nook is where I read, write, and draw.

The last of these has become my favourite spot, a place for me to channel all my creative thinking and energy into something I am passionate about. You know how kids have clubhouses or tents made out of bed-sheets and chairs? I think a reading nook is the equivalent for grown-ups…at least to me.

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