117. How to Create a Compassionate Writing Practice (Even When You're Not Writing) with Charlotte Donlon

I'm joined by creativity coach Charlotte Donlon for a conversation I think has been missing from most craft circles: what it actually means to write from a compassionate place. We talk about her forthcoming book Spiritual Direction for Writers, and why she believes all of life is the writing life, not just the days we sit down to draft.Charlotte opens up about coming to writing later in life, healing through a daily writing practice after a manic episode and major depression, living with bipolar disorder, and the identity crisis she faced as a writer when her father died just months before her first book released. We dig into nourishing rhythms, solo retreat practices, writer identity, loneliness and belonging in the creative life, and how to be curious with yourself instead of chastising yourself when the writing isn't happening.If you've ever felt like you weren't a real writer during a season when you weren't writing, or you're looking for a gentler, more sustainable approach to your creative practice, this episode is for you.We cover:Charlotte's path from classical ballet to an MFA in creative writingWriting as healing while living with bipolar disorder and mental illnessGrief, identity, and what it means to be a writer during hard seasonsHer belong, become, behold, bestow framework from Spiritual Direction for WritersNourishing rhythms, solo writing retreats, and self-compassion for writersBeing a good literary citizen and finding belonging through art and communityFind Charlotte at spiritualdirectionforwriters.comIf this episode resonated with you, I'd love a rating and review, it helps more writers find the show. And if you want support with your own manuscript or writing life, come find me at nicolemeier.com.