Day 009 of 100 | Growing with Collaboration
#100DaysofWonder | When has collaboration expanded your ideas?
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PROMPT | DAY 009
When has collaboration expanded your ideas?
MY REFLECTION:
It’s more like… When hasn’t collaboration expanded my ideas?
One story comes to mind. I was taking a 3-month creativity practicum, and as part of our assignments, we had to write or create every day. A lot like we are doing here.
Except that we basically kept an individual online log or journal. And then, as you got to know people, you posted your daily creations, responded to comments, and made sure to comment on 3 other people’s posts.
I was writing about the frustration of not finding words and how my brain injury impacted my creative writing… or at least the ease of said writing.
Someone commented something I will never forget. They said it seemed like I had a peculiar synesthesia. When I couldn’t find the word, I would instead use a metaphor or story to get the point across. And perhaps that very thing will actually make me a better writer in the long run.
Honestly, that one piece of feedback is a big reason why I kept pushing, am still writing, and began this Substack. We never know the incredible impact one little bit of thoughtful encouragement might have.
As Van Gogh is quoted as saying, “There is nothing more truly artistic than to love people.”
Share your thoughts in the comments. How has collaboration stretched and shaped your creativity?
All my love,
I collaborated with an artist, Liz, while writing my first novel, The Girl from the Hermitage. The main character in the book is an artist and Liz read through the manuscript several times, advising how to make the character more authentic. Sadly, she passed away shortly after publication. Whenever a reader comments on the vivid the painting scenes or asks if I'm an artist, I fondly remember Liz. The very first time we met to discuss the manuscript she said "I love any form of collaboration." She brought enthusiasm and knowledge to the book. Writing is such a solitary task. Suddenly, I felt less so.
I’m certainly finding that I’m flowing more with what makes me happy while having creative time. Also that it hasn’t got to be perfect. The showing up each day is great for me as I’m hopeless at continuity or so I thought🤣 reaching day 9 is amazing for me and I’m proud of myself. 🥰