Time For An Intermission
Valuing Flexibility and Breaks
I’m just popping in here to say that there will be no full-length VALUES post this week because I spent the weekend at the 2025 “Deep Dive” virtual writing retreat hosted by “The Shit No One Tells You About Writing” podcast. It was INCREDIBLE: two packed days, twelve speakers ranging from writers to agents to editors (all of whom had jaw-dropping resumes), and so much helpful information typed into my “Writing Education” Scrivener file.
(Also about a zillion snacks and cups of black tea.)
So I got a bit behind in my posting schedule. But don’t worry, I have many more posts in the pipeline, and even got ideas for more while I was retreat-ing.
(Another Value: sometimes you just need a break in order to keep going.)
More Things To Read!
While you’re waiting for next week’s post, check out the February issue of In A Flash, which centers around the theme of BODY and features a beautiful essay about body exposure from writer Patti Jo Amerein. Praise to my friend and co-editor Nina Lichtenstein for her first lead-edited issue— it’s fabulous!
(My turn is next month and I CANNOT WAIT.)
Also please check out How Do These 6 Substack Writers "Do Life" with More Meaning and Less Futile Striving? by Marika Páez Wiesen for her newsletter “living the in-between times.” Marika reached out to me last week after my post Want to Live a Purposeful Life? Think About Dying mentioned the work of Oliver Burkeman and specifically his book Meditations for Mortals. As it happened, Marika was closing out a series about the book and asked me to contribute to her post! I was honored to be asked and really enjoyed answering her questions. Thank you, Marika! Please read the post and sign up for her newsletter.
A Reminder!
Good Character is now offering Subscriber Bonuses if you refer new subscribers! The first tier is only three referrals, and includes access to my guide on Creating Your Best Life. (Here’s a quick preview, which includes four slides from the guide.) Find more details about the process and the other two bonuses here. I’m grateful for your help in getting the word out about Good Character! (Don’t we all need help staying focused on character in times like these?)
Stuff You Might Like To Know
IN A FLASH will be open for the theme of GROWTH from February 1-15. Send us your best, under 500 words.
I’m reading Miranda July’s ALL FOURS. I just finished Danielle Trussoni’s THE PUZZLE BOX.
I’m listening to Hysterical, the award-winning Wondery podcast series on the town in Upstate New York where dozens of girls suddenly began twitching. It’s fascinating, terrifying, and opens up a whole lot of flaws in the character of our country.
Keep hoping. Keep caring. Keep trying.