Ready for some more Friday inspiration? Today we are lucky to hear from writer, Tammy Strobel, who blogs about simple living at Rowdy Kittens. Tammy discusses approaches to and ideas for simplifying, making positive changes, and truly connecting with others (among many of the things that she writes about). She explains things in a very approachable way, acknowledging the hopes and fears that come with following your dreams and choosing your path in life. At her site you can also find more ideas in the ebooks she has written, interesting guest posts and ideas for tiny houses. I am so glad that Tammy was able to take the time to share her thoughts on her creative process here!
First, just tell me a bit about yourself and your creative pursuits.
I love doing yoga, bike riding, drinking coffee, playing with my cats, taking photos, knitting, and my biggest love is: writing.
Tell us a little bit about your work space (this does not have to be a dedicated space, it
can be whatever space you use most often for creating)I work in different spaces everyday. Sometimes I work at my kitchen table, the library, or in various Portland coffee shops.
Wherever I work, I’m writing in a text edit program or in 750words. Sometimes I use my notebook, but I usually use my notebook to record ideas. I’m a fast typist, so I can get easily frustrated trying to write long posts in my notebook.
I love working for myself because I can work where and when I want. I don’t have to stick to a 9-5 schedule; I wouldn’t change anything about my set-up. I love being able to walk down to a coffee shop or sit in my kitchen with a fresh cup of coffee.
What motivates you to create?
I want to help other people through my writing and writing makes me happy.
What stalls or inhibits your creative process?
I have lot of problems with my lizard brain. Seth Godin describes the lizard brain as, “the resistance. The resistance is the voice in the back of our head telling us to back off, be careful, go slow, compromise. The resistance is writer's block and putting jitters and every project that ever shipped late because people couldn't stay on the same page long enough to get something out the door.”
My lizard brain is very hard to tame and is constantly yelling at me. I tend to be harder on myself, than other people.
Right now my current fear is not being able to finish up my book proposal. My lizard brain is constantly saying, “Well, even if you finish the proposal, how do you know a publisher will pick it up? And seriously, do you really think you are a writer?”
I bring this up as example not because I want you to feel sorry for me. But for all of you to realize that everyone deals with the lizard brain. We all have fears. The trick is figuring out how to overcome those fears and keep creating.
What or who helps to support your creative work? My husband, Logan, has been a huge source of support. I don’t think I would still be writing if it weren’t for his constant encouragement.
If you are interested in reading more creative process interviews, you can find them here.
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