Where I go on Substack for nourishment
When I get stuck with my writing, the last place I turn is more writing guidance
In my years as an editor and intentional in-the-trenches writer, I’ve learned that my writing muscles only have so much to give from day to day. And if I use them too often without refueling, I will reach a place of burnout that takes me months to recover from.
So when my writing practice is feeling a little bit stale, I know that’s a message to reach for resources to support my heart, mind and body. In essence, I look for nourishment that reaches all of my connective creative tissues. After a few days of stepping away from my writing and sinking deeply and unapologetically into these resources, it feels like something almost magical shows up. I find myself refreshed in surprising ways and ready to keep walking in this world as a writer.
Today I’m sharing places on Substack that nourish me when my writing muscles need a break. I’m looking at where I go when I need fresh perspectives; when I want to nourish my connection to Earth; when I want to broaden my relationship with myself; and when I want to jump into some unapologetic kitchen joy.
Fresh Perspectives
of Everything is AmazingFormer travel writer meets everything with a burst of curiosity and loads of research. Mike’s writing is fun and informative and has a dash of humor when I least expect it.
of Inner WorkingsInsightful, rhythmic and vivid writing about issues that affect my life (Check out the Lady’s Illness Library—it’s inspired). I turn to Rachel when I need to breathe on Substack.
of The UnpublishableIn-depth reporting on the beauty industry that keeps the industry nervous. Jessica’s work intersects in a place where I want liberation the most in my life.
of On the CommonsMassively intelligent observations on the world, community and property. I always leave feeling like contemplating the world is a worthwhile gift I can offer.
of Both are TrueHumor meets realness in writing and originality. Alex’s writing reminds me that if I’m not having fun with my writing, then it’s time to change things up!
Connection to Earth
of Nature :: Spirit — Kinship in a living worldIn-depth pieces that always open my heart to considering my relationship with the Earth and others. (Plus the sound of Priscilla’s voice is so comforting!)
of Going GentlyPrayers for the Earth and Buddhist gentleness for every day. Satya’s style is never prescriptive; always generous; and nurtures my desire for an Earth-to-heart connection.
of An Irritable MétisA gift to my humble knowledge around the work of Native Americans. I come to Chris’s work as a student and feel like his voice opens up something in my own.
Connection to Self
of The ClearingAn invitation to look thoughtfully inward at how I process the world around me. Katherine’s writing is like feeling that pulse of electricity she describes in the outer world, but in words on a page. I always feel a pop of recognition and curiosity.
of Navel GazingStunning personal writing that plants me in new places when I’m done. River’s writing style is gripping, and I feel less alone after going on the rides of their essays.
of Armchair RebelReminders that I can move slowly and gently in all I do. Michelle gives from such an intuitive place and her cadence in publishing gives me extra permission to shape my voice in concert with my energy.
of Burnt ToastAn exhaustive resource for anyone hoping to define a life beyond the standardization. Virginia’s reporting style is always a great reminder for how to incorporate the outside world into my writing that sometimes leans memoir-esque.
Kitchen Joy
of What To Cook When You Don’t Feel Like CookingWeekly meal plans, plus contagious enthusiasm for cooking when I feel flat. Caroline’s enthusiasm in her recipes is contagious. It makes me feel like wearing more yellow shirts.
of The Department of SaladConstantly makes me think, “That can be salad?” (in a good way). Emily’s style is no-nonsense and brimming with creativity, which is exactly what I need when I’m hungry: a direct line to tastiness without the fuss (or rubbish words like “tangy”).
Where do I turn when I do need that writing guidance goodness?
Of course, much of the time my heart and mind are thinking about writing and my newsletter, The Editing Spectrum. Here are the main places I go to give my own writing an intentional boost of freshness or different ideas on how to bring my writing into the world.
of The Author StackExhaustive resource for examining the author/writer life from every angle.
of What WorksAn impressively smart organization of topics, including marketing from a neurodiverse, expansive lens. Tara doesn’t give anything a pass just because it’s a tried-and-true practice. She’s going to tell me what works, what doesn’t and why.
of Agents and BooksThis is my way of keeping a pinky toe’s awareness of the loathsome state of affairs in traditional book publishing.
of Hype YourselfWeekly invitations that help me think creatively about self promotion. Lucy’s writing is structured in a way that I can take guidance and filter it in my own neurodivergent way. I’m letting people know I’m here much more often since subscribing to her newsletter.
Tell me: How can I bring nourishment to your writing?
It would mean so much to me if you took a couple minutes to tell me a little about how you’re enjoying The Editing Spectrum. I know surveys can be boring sometimes, but this one’s only 5 questions (and you only have to answer 2!) plus it really helps to hear from you all — I wouldn’t have made it this far without you.
Yay!! What a list :) thanks for including me.
Really great list Amanda! I love that you're calling out writers who you find enjoyment, support, and help from. This is what Substack's all about, right? It's awesome to see your posts each week grow and evolve. I'm always in awe of how much you do and all of the great content you put out. Cheers!!