Kind Words - Mindset Tip #4
Nurturing Creativity and Compassion in the Writer's Life
Last week, we focused on gratitude for the process. This week, let’s explore writing with kindness—a practice that doesn’t mean your work must always be happy or light. Kindness in writing can also mean addressing heavy or dark topics in ways that resonate deeply with others, offering them a sense of connection or understanding. Research suggests that storytelling grounded in empathy can engage readers’ emotions, fostering a sense of belonging and even healing. When we write with kindness, we’re not just creating stories; we’re creating spaces for others to feel seen, understood, and less alone. Whether through uplifting narratives or honest depictions of life’s struggles, writing with kindness allows your words to make a meaningful impact.
Write with a Kindness Mission
Think about how your work might bring kindness into the world. Whether it’s creating a character who exemplifies empathy or crafting a plot that encourages understanding, approach your writing with the intention to uplift. Consider the impact your words may have on readers and let that be a source of motivation.
Let’s Play: Writing the Invisible Thread
Close your eyes and imagine your writing as a thread extending outward, seeking to connect with someone you’ve never met. This person could be a stranger, a version of yourself, or even someone who exists only in your imagination. What are they feeling right now? What might they need—comfort, understanding, laughter, a spark of hope?
Spend 10 minutes writing a passage or scene meant just for them. It could be a small moment of dialogue, a vivid description, or even a single line that acknowledges their experience. Focus on creating something that offers connection, not answers—like a shared glance between two people who don’t need words to understand each other.
This practice shifts your focus outward, encouraging you to infuse your work with the quiet, meaningful kindness that invites readers to feel seen.
I’d love to hear how this practice goes for you—feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
Have a great week and Happy Writing!