Kerri Sackville, a prominent columnist, discusses her writing life and the role of anxiety in creativity. She explores coping strategies, the impact of digital distractions on children, and the challenges of book promotion in the social media era. The conversation delves into the connection between anxiety, introspection, and writing courage.
Anxiety can fuel or impede creativity, affecting writers' productivity and mental health.
Diverse career paths can lead to successful writing careers, showcasing the possibility for reinvention.
Deep dives
The Challenges of Dealing with Anxiety as a Writer
Anxiety can be a significant hurdle for writers, affecting both their creative process and mental well-being. Kerry Sackfield, a prolific writer, shares her personal struggles with anxiety and how it can hinder or help her work. While some believe anxiety can drive creativity, Kerry emphasizes the challenges it poses, clouding her mind when facing deadlines and impacting her writing process. Through therapy, journaling, and exercise, she manages her anxiety, highlighting the importance of self-care and mental well-being for writers.
The Journey from Social Work to Writing
Kerry Sackfield's transition from social work to writing sheds light on her diverse career path. Starting with a background in English and linguistics, she worked as a social worker before exploring human resources and recruitment. After becoming a stay-at-home mom, her passion for writing emerged, leading to a successful writing career. Sackfield's journey showcases the possibility of pursuing writing even after diverse professional experiences.
Unlocking Creativity Through Solitude
Kerry Sackfield's book, 'The Secret Life of You,' delves into the importance of solitude and alone time. Contrary to loneliness, solitude offers a valuable opportunity for introspection and self-connection. Sackfield reveals how modern distractions, such as smartphones and social media, hinder personal reflection and creativity, emphasizing the need to prioritize moments of solitude amidst a technology-driven world. By cultivating reflective practices, individuals can nurture their creativity and emotional well-being.
Navigating the Complexities of Book Promotion
Kerry Sackfield reflects on the challenges of book promotion and success in the writing industry. Despite her accomplishments in publishing books and contributing to esteemed publications, Sackfield acknowledges the unpredictable nature of book marketing and the external factors influencing an author's success. Juggling social media platforms and promoting her work, Sackfield highlights the lack of control authors have over the reception of their books, underscoring the industry's competitive and dynamic landscape.
Anxiety. We all have it, or elements of it, but some of us have it more than others. Writers, it would seem, have more of it than most. In this revealing podcast, Kerri Sackville, one of Australia’s most prominent columnists and popular writers discusses her writing life, and in particular, her unique relationship to, and with anxiety – how it helps her, hinders her and why it’s the creative force that underpins much of her work.