Last minute love letters, starting seeds, and how to find creative inspiration every single day 💌
The groundhog didn't see his shadow. Does that mean spring is here? Read on for tips on how to seize the shortest month of the year!
We have officially finished the two darkest months of the year, and now it’s time to think about spring. Whether you’re lucky enough to watch things bloom in February (hello California) or still buried deep in snow, I’m loving these slightly longer days and promise of warm months on the horizon. 🌿
Welcome to the February edition of Flow State, the newsletter about people stories, writing, and impact-driven companies. I’ll use this space to share a mix of work and fun, mostly writing- and reading-related, all inspired by how I’m spending my own time.
Your moment of zen.
5 TRUTHS:
1. Love letters aren’t just for lovers. 💌
This Valentine’s Day, consider writing a love letter to your favorite hiking trail, the almond croissant at your local bakery, or your mom. A love letter doesn’t need to read like a Shakespearean sonnet, instead follow this format (or invent your own) for a heartfelt and efficient note to express yourself.
Who or what are you writing a love letter to this week?
2. You don’t need to wait for the creativity to “strike.”
Here are five routines I try to follow each morning to break out of the fog and get ready to write.
1. Get some sun. Starting the day outside and with a bit of movement can make up for even the worst night's sleep. For me, that means a walk to daycare drop off with my dog. 🌞
2. Start with protein. Eggs and pb toast have become staples for feeding my brain before a busy day of writing. 🍳
3. Journal first. I write out my three most important tasks for the day before I open my email. I aim to include one more involved task, then two simpler tasks that go easy on my brain. If I accomplish nothing else today I'll feel accomplished knowing I completed those three things. 📒
4. Start with tea. Sitting down at my desk always feels better with a fresh, hot cup of tea. Sub for coffee if that's your thing, and repeat as necessary throughout the day. ☕
5. Plan breaks. I would always rather be outside than on my computer, so it helps to give myself an incentive. Midday dog walks or workouts with a friend help break up the day and keep me motivated. 🐶
3. February is the month to get your garden in order.
Whether you start seeds inside (you can start them now), or plan to wait until the ground thaws, use February’s down time to order seeds, map out your space, and prepare any inside growing spaces. Check out the good ol’ Farmer’s Almanac for tips on everything from first-time vegetable growing to when to plant each seed. You’ll be ready when spring finally arrives. 🌿
4. Telling your story begins with finding your voice.
When the team at Pattern, a global design and branding agency, set out to create their first website, we worked together to define their voice and to write web copy that aligned with their big vision. Four+ years later, they've built an impressive client list that includes big names like Framebridge, Bobbie, and Metallica, continue to live their values by hiring and supporting amazing people, and push the limits of what's possible in brand identity every single day.
Read more about our work together on my site. 🌟
5. Friday mornings deserve a moment to pause.
If you agree, sign up for my Creative Fridays writing prompt series (it’s free!). Each Friday morning you’ll receive a writing tip and a short writing prompt that will inspire you to think differently. The idea is to set a timer for 7 minutes, write until it goes off, then move on with your day. No pressure, no sharing, just a little creative burst to break out of your usual routine.
There’s still time to sign up for the March edition of my virtual writing workshop for small business owners. We’ll meet weekly to tackle the content you’ve been trying to prioritize since last year. If I get enough interest, I’ll also launch a writing workshop for non-biz people who want to write for fun.
How’s your business’ elevator pitch? If you could use some clarity and a bit of writing help, reach out. Here are a few ways we can work together!
Send me a note to learn how we can design a project together: becca@wattersoncreative.com and check out my brand storytelling portfolio to see what’s possible.
Thank you for reading the February edition of Flow State. We’ll be back in March with the stories of three female founders who started with their own needs (gluten-free beer, a running group for beginners, and a coffee shop that gives back), and created thriving businesses in Golden, Colorado. I’ll also share a writing tip from the weekly series, a project recap, and more!
Whether it’s a love letter or a window sill garden, I hope you find a minute to be creative this week!
Cheers,
