Like those days in school where we're asked to write about what we did over vacation, John and Kevin discuss what they learned last year about their own creativity, and how they plan to apply those lessons this year. This is an activity every creator should do. By reviewing and evaluating what's working and what isn't, we move our creativity forward and keep the energy flowing. When the flow isn't there, it could be because we haven't dropped habits that hold us back.

Oh, and you get your money's worth in this episode. It's a long one, so grab a favorite beverage and pull up a comfy chair...

John's resource is How to Write One Song by Jeff Tweedy. A book John describes has having three halves.

Kevin suggests exploring your family artifacts. Those items, letters, and photos from previous generations.

Note: book links are affiliate links to bookshop.org supporting independent bookstores everywhere, including Modern Folklore Bookstore.

Do you get distracted by your creativity tools? Do you put off your creative work because you haven't found the perfect tools? Do you argue online about your favorite tools? In this episode, we talk about these concerns and how to work through the temptation and get to work.

Neither of us read this book, but it appears useful. Unclutter Your Mind: 500 ways to Focus on What's Important by Donna Smallin.

This episode is a little more personal for us. We dig into how we each have managed our creativity while dealing with unexpected and emotionally difficult times. Each creative deals with this in their own way. There is no single best approach other than to use or perform creative work in the manner that serves you best. Creativity can be a therapeutic benefit, but it can also cause anxiety and stress. Knowing yourself and "going with the flow" of what feels best, being open to change, accepting setbacks, etc. is probably the only guidance we can give. But if you've ever struggled with being creative while facing life's biggest challenges, give this a listen. You're not alone.