I’m writing this post from Write Away, our retreat where women can write, read, escape, get mentoring and coaching sessions and honor their creativity.
As I talk to women during this retreat, they tell me that they’re so glad they have given these four days to themselves. Some of them are working on books and want the time to continue writing with less distractions. Some of them want to listen to their inner writers who are screaming to be heard. Others just need to escape the city and try something they’ve never done before.
On a date, you get to know someone better. You eat delicious food, try new activities together, laugh at each other’s jokes, share stories over a bottle of wine. Over these four days, these women are starting to learn to date themselves, to treat themselves well, to listen to stories (others and their own), to take time to write.
Mina Esguerra, author and #romanceclass founder, advised to “make a writing date with yourself” and keep it sacred. By writing a little during these times, the words add up (even if they come oh-so-slowly) and your inner writer will know that you are finally listening and making time for her.
You might make your date a writing one. Or you can just put aside an hour every week to do something pleasurable for yourself. You can treat yourself to cake and a cup of coffee. Or try something you’ve always been curious about.
Ask yourself out on a date. And say yes to getting to know yourself all over again.
