Revisiting Carrie Mae Weems’s Advice on Creative Presence: “Let the Work Become the Work”
ESSAYS & CREATIVE NONFICTION | ARTISTIC PROCESS
What does “let the work become the work” really mean? That question stayed with me after hearing Carrie Mae Weems speak and spending time with her work. The guidance she shared cut through the pressure to produce, promote, and perform.
This post unpacks her words of wisdom and explores what a creative presence built on awareness and purpose looks like in an age of AI, automation, and constant digital noise. If you’re looking for a more grounded, human approach to creative life, start here.
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How to Use Sound to Enter Creative Flow: A Writing Ritual for Inspired Productivity
INTENTION & PRACTICE | CREATIVE RITUALS
I’m sure we’ve all wished we could just sit down to write, immediately get into a groove, and knock out a bunch of words like it’s nothing.
Most of the time, it’s not like that. My brain wants to get the mood right. And if we’re being honest, I can waste a lot of time doing that. But I found a shortcut to that creative flow mood when I was in college and wanted to do some fun writing between class projects. That shortcut was sound.
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Lani Sarem at AWCon 18: I Remain Unconvinced
As seen referenced on Jealous Haters Book Club and the Handbook for Mortals Wikipedia page!
In 2018, I sat in the front row of Lani Sarem’s seminar “How I Navigated the NYT Bestseller List” at a writing conference. I wanted to hear her side of the story and ask a few questions myself.
Meet the Writer
A curious mind bringing together writing, art, and intention—with a few plot twists.
I’m Amanda, a writer and artist with a soft spot for the strange and stories that leave a mark. When I’m not working in websites content marketing, I’m creating.
What began as a place to chronicle what I learned as a college student pursuing a writing degree has evolved over the years. Now, it’s The AJSWITZY Project.
Here in my corner of the internet, you’ll find everything there is to know about my creative work. Whether you’re a fellow creative, a curious reader, or a wanderer just here for the vibes, grab your favorite drink and pull up a seat. You’re welcome to stay as long as you like.
Dispatches from the Creative Underworld
For writers, artists, and story-loving weirdos who want to live and create with intention.
Inside each dispatch is a small offering to help feed your creative wellspring:
- Literary essays, reflections, or the occasional story
- Honest notes on writing craft and sustaining a creative life
- Rituals, habits, and soft magic to care for creative energy
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