To Write Authentically or “Feed the Beast”

I refuse to take part in the black cloud of emotion that is seeping into our psyches from every corner. — Jillian Amatt — Artistic Voyages

“Make a quick buck.”

“Do this to earn more.”

Yeah, those articles earn money.

“The Top 10 WORST Things About Cats — Read this before you make a mistake about this so-called ‘purrrrrfect’ pet.”

Yeah, the negativity earns money too.

So I hear anyway. I try to stay clear of that kind of influence and apply a growth mindset and positively reframe most scenarios.

Life is short and there is so much good we can experience and great opportunities for learning.

Maybe it’s a part of why my “blog” ebbs and flows to the degree that it does — a dark cloud doesn’t hang around here.

I am not “feeding the beast.”

Jillian Amatt - Artistic Voyages discusses just this as she shares a commitment to keep to the positive influence.

I refuse to take part in the black cloud of emotion that is seeping into our psyches from every corner. — Jillian Amatt - Artistic Voyages

What if there were more writers like Jillian?

Because… when there is a need, it can test anyone.

Writing isn’t my full-time gig, so I am not reliant on it (yet) to make ends meet — although, that’s the dream.

I can imagine the pressure of “feeding the beast” to garner the income that means keeping a roof over your head and food on the table.

To be honest, having lived through a period (months) of zero income and resorting to selling anything I could around the house to keep the roof over my head, I understand this pressure — and the potential need to feed the best.

Casting the positive light is a part of what makes Sahil Patel’s vision of RECIPROCAL truly beautiful. Together, we can magnify goodness and help ensure persons who are in the space to keep food on the table can remain authentic to who they are.

This is the gift Sahil has given us in creating this space — and the gift we can offer each other.

The science behind a positive perspective.

We are shaped by our thoughts and feelings. The way we think can influence the way we feel, which influences the way we act. Further, this reality can be influenced by what we read.

A positive perspective is not just a nice idea but it is actually an important part of life. Research has shown that people with a positive perspective live longer, have more satisfying relationships, and are more successful in their careers.

There are many ways to change your thoughts and feelings for the better and reading content that is uplifting, constructive, and encouraging is one favourable influence.

Positive reading breeds positive thinking.

Reading has been shown to improve empathy, reduce prejudice, improve social skills, and increase creativity. Reading is not just for entertainment purposes; it’s a tool that can change how we think about the world.

So, why not sprinkle kindness like confetti?

Transcend cyberspace into an uplifting place of encouragement, positive influence, and an honest to goodness community spirit.

Community with heart, care, and compassion.

What’s even more remarkable is how this space joins us from across the globe, providing a constant reminder of how similar we indeed are.

We’re people. Humans. Good humans.

Let’s keep the goodness reigning and feed a new beast that flourishes with joy and kindness — and has favourable effects on our physical and mental health in the process.

Be inspired.

Looking for more positive reads that offer warmth and goodness? Check out:

Jackie Schuld’s letter to “Joy” is about personal connection and presence with one’s self. Her words are a great reminder about how being present and content with one’s self is a powerful and rewarding space.

Trista Signe Ainsworth writes about finding magic in the small moments — those bits and pieces that make life so good.

Charles Amemiya tells the story, decades in the making: lessons learns after being in prison. He shares lessons of gratitude and finding purpose while retaining perspective when times are tough:

“Our greatest successes in life are oftentimes a result of our greatest suffering.” — Charles Amemiya

Thank you, dear readers, for continuing to support me by spending time with my words. I am in awe of this community and am truly grateful you have stopped by to share a part of your day here.

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