The Creative Cycle
Do you struggle to work to a daily routine? Me too. No matter how hard I try to get up, get organised, and get to my computer by 10am, I just can't seem to stay consistent. Over time, I've noticed that the creative work cycle is different to the nine-to-five work cycle. It breathes with its own rhythm of intense creativity, followed by intense periods of rest and reflection. This is the cycle of nature, as natural as the bodies that we haul to our computers. The flower doesn't flower every single day, but in an intense burst of creativity, then rest. Plants and animals rest. Nature rests. We are nature. Knowing this cycle helps me to use my energy in the most efficient way. I've learnt that trying to work when it's time to rest isn't the best use of my precious time. I've learnt to develop rest strategies. When I can't get another word onto the page, it's time to put words back in. This might mean catching up with friends, reading, music or TV. S...