Thursday, January 28, 2010

Have you ever been in one of life's ruts?

I've been in a rut. It's not like I have been depressed and distressed. It's just one of those 'ruts' where I have felt kind of disconnected...not really from anything in particular, just a feeling in general.That is, until today.

I took my Writer's Magazine to the gym with me. It was exactly what I needed. (We do have a gym in our small community and it is actually quite nice).  I had my water bottle, and my magazine. I was the only one in the cardio room...that's what I call the room with the treadmills, elliptical machines and bikes.  I changed channels from 9 News on the TV to a Soul Station (purely accidental - I just click till I find music I like). I got on the treadmill, set it to uphill and began my trek. I read, listened to music and hiked. When I finished there I got on a bike...set my magazine in a place on the screen, drank some water and began pedaling.

During my 'bicycling', as I was listening to "House of Clowns" I realized I was enjoying myself, immensely. I thought to myself, 'how much better can it get?' I was listening to music, and reading - two of my favorite hobbies - and I was working out at the same time (working out is something I need to do...maybe it will become another favorite hobby in time).

While in the 'rut' I didn't feel like I had anything to say about anything. I was telling myself, 'everybody's heard everything there is to say'. I didn't think I had any inspiring wisdom to lend to anyone. \

However, reading the articles while I 'hiked' and pedaled, filled me with hope for myself. I worked myself right out of the rut!

Number one: Ruts happen. The article said to keep writing anyway and gave some helpful hints on motivation and imagination.
Number two: Maintain proper perspective. While in a rut, things seem mundane. Keep writing anyway, it said. Write and write and write.
Number three: Don't give up.Don't stop. Keep writing. Write through. 
One, two, three...simple steps. I should've known them on my own. But, I lost perspective.  I needed a boost.

Sometimes we need a boost....just because.

'Reminded me of words from a Bob Dylan song, 'The only thing I know to do is to keep on keeping on.' I can say to myself, 'When I've done all to write, I need to write and write some more'! Words of wisdom - Press on.

I'm ready, now. I was energized by my trip to the gym. Who would've thought?! I found a perfect place to study - a place of solitude and refreshing! I learned a lot at the gym, today. I can't wait until tomorrow.