Recently, many people who have been laid off or are out of work, have learned to work from home. 

Most often, I hear stories about the challenges of scheduling uninterrupted time so the day’s work can be accomplished.  

For years, we writers have dealt with that problem—and many others: Back/neck pain, snacking/overeating, lack of exercise, trouble focusing, reduced income, sleep deprivation, family issues, lowered self-esteem due to unproductiveness and social isolation. 

So, fellow authors, our professional lives really haven’t changed too drastically. 

Low self-esteem can be the worst result. Especially if we tie our self-worth to our success as authors.

We need to write because that gives us pleasure or because we have a message we want to share. And that has to be enough.

If money and fame are the reason for doing anything, we are just setting ourselves up for hurt and disappointment.

But, here are things we can do, right now, that have lasting effects–new ways of helping others in the midst of our world crisis:

Write stories about disasters, memoirs, the triumphant human spirit. Craft devotionals, idea books for parents, songs and games for children. The list is endless.

We can use the creativity we possess as writers to encourage and inspire our readers.

What has the pandemic taught you about yourself? About others? How has it changed your life? Has it altered your thinking…your priorities…your faith…your writing?