How to Sharpen Your Skills in the Midst of a Global Pandemic

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As much as we hate to admit it, we can all agree that, unfortunately, the effects of the coronavirus pandemic are lasting longer than we thought. It is still sweeping the nation, and many of us find ourselves facing more time at home. However, although the times are heavy, we can still look for the silver linings, and one of them is more time to write and perfect our craft.

Many of us at Inspira have noticed things we’ve never noticed before, due to a newfound slower pace of life. This new rhythm has given us more time to be deliberate, more time to write creatively, more time to find inspiration around us,and more time to meditate, contemplate, or pray. While these things may all seem abstract, they all lead to more effective writing. We can discover new methods, develop new habits, and find ourselves writing more effectively and proficiently as we face a summer that may largely be spent at home.

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Here are the ways we recommend you make the most of this opportunity to build your writing skills and produce unique work:

  • Journal. Journaling is a widely-known therapeutic practice that can help you organize your thoughts and find coherence amongst what may feel like chaos around you. It serves as a great narrative of the current times and will serve as a piece of “history” in years to come.

  • Try something new, like poetry. Even if you don’t consider yourself a poet, there is something to be said about the creative expression involved with poetry. It can give you a deeper understanding and different perspective of language. It is a great way to express your ideas in a way you normally wouldn’t. We do not grow if we do not step outside of our comfort zone.

  • Write a letter to the editor. There certainly is a lot going on in the world, and these times are unprecedented, to say the least. If you feel strongly about something, or have an opposing viewpoint from an article published in your local paper, consider writing a letter to the editor or an op-ed. Not only will we give you kudos for being an involved community member, but it’s a great way to practice writing succinctly, and getting a point across in a manner that appeals to a wide audience.

  • Revisit old work. Have you ever started a writing project and set it aside, only to never pick it up again? This is a great opportunity to edit or rework projects you never thought you’d have the time to finish.

  • Send some snail mail. This is one of the best ways to brighten someone’s day (as well as your own!). Instead of hopping on social media or sending an e-mail from your phone, consider hand writing a letter to a friend or family member. There is something therapeutic about this practice and many believe that writing by hand causes them to connect more with their writing. (It’s also a great way to practice your spelling and grammar since there’s no spellcheck when you write the old-fashioned way!)

Although we wish we could press the fast-forward button on 2020 and get past it as quickly (and safely) as possible, it’s important to look for positive takeaways wherever we can. As you spend a slower summer at home, take some time to pause, reflect, set goals, and center yourself. We encourage you to take the opportunity to improve your writing and try new things. Your new book will thank you!

Happy writing! 
The Inspira Team