#53 The Joy of Writing Things Down with Researcher, Writer, and Mentor Dr Megan C. Hayes

Where do you find joy and curiosity in life?In this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, I chat with Dr Megan C Hayes, a researcher, writer, mentor and relentless optimist.We explore how creative writing can serve as a tool for self-discovery and emotional expression. Megan shares her personal journey, the importance of curiosity in the creative process, and the significance of reconnecting with one's inner child.  Megan has published four books, numerous journal articles and research papers, founded the Joyful School of Writing, an online school of all things creative writing, and developed The Positive Journal®, an approach to personal writing combining the science of positive psychology and the power of the page.In this episode: Using writing as a simple way to incorporate wellbeing into life.Embracing curiosity is a vital strength for creative individuals.Seeing creative writing as a joyful process of reunion with lost parts.The metaphor of journalling as flexible, just like friendships.The blank page can be intimidating but it is also a mirror.Trust in the writing process takes time.The conversation delves into the emotional depth of writing, the challenges posed by external pressures, and the therapeutic aspects of writing, likening it to a flexible friendship that evolves with time and personal growth. Please connect with Megan to follow her work, download a free set of writing tools, enrol in online courses, book a one-to-one session or purchase numerous writing resources. Megan C HayesJoyful School of WritingPositive JournalMegan’s booksInstagramAlso mentioned in this podcast:James PennebakerDr Celia HuntDr Sophie NichollsMartin SeligmanVIA Character StrengthsKatherine May ‘Enchantment’Laurie Lee ‘Cider with Rosie’The Happiness Project by Light Box, BristolThe Natural AcademySoundbites from Megan"It's a real privilege to be a mentor.""We can often surprise ourselves.""We meet those parts of ourselves again.""The blank page is like a mirror.""Trust takes time in any relationship.""I feel most myself in natural spaces.""Nature mirrors how we're feeling inside."Podcast Chapters00:00 Introduction to Writing and Wellbeing02:49 The Journey of Writing and Wellbeing06:04 Exploring Creative Writing and Identity08:48 The Emotional Depth of Writing11:50 Curiosity and Creativity in Writing15:09 Reconnecting with the Inner Child17:52 The Relationship with Self through Writing20:58 Navigating External Pressures and Inner Whispers29:29 The Therapeutic Nature of Writing32:36 Writing as a Flexible Friendship35:53 Overcoming the Blank Page39:39 Trusting the Writing Process43:26 Nature's Influence on Creativity54:12 Connecting with Megan C. Hayes_ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave your thoughts as a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast on their chosen platform and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources for you to gain from.Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links pageAccess a free journal plannerJoin my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connection newsletter