OVER DEZE AFLEVERING
How do you keep writing when life feels like it's falling apart?
In Episode 94 of Write Effing Now!, Hilary Jastram gets personal about something every writer will face at some point: grief, loss, and the chaos that comes with being human.
Whether you're dealing with the death of a loved one, a broken relationship, financial struggles, or a life-changing event, the world doesn't always stop so you can process it.
Hilary shares her own experiences with grief and the practical ways she's learned to keep creating, working, and showing up when her heart and mind are somewhere else.
Because sometimes the goal isn't to push through. It's to give yourself permission to pause.
Why grief doesn't follow a predictable timeline.
How to compartmentalize emotions without ignoring them.
Why taking frequent breaks can help you stay productive.
How small creative projects can provide comfort during difficult times.
Why setting boundaries and communicating with clients matters.
How to give yourself permission to be imperfect.
Why writing about grief can help you process your emotions.
How to keep creating without sacrificing your well-being.
Hilary opens up about losing her father, navigating uncertainty, and learning to work while carrying grief. She explains why grief isn't something you simply finish before returning to your life. Sometimes you have to invite it along, give it a chair, and keep moving at your own pace.
From crying in the shower to building LEGO sets, taking shorter work sessions, and writing imperfect poetry, Hilary shares the little things that helped her through difficult moments. She also reminds writers that boundaries, compassion, and realistic expectations matter more than perfection.
And there's something exciting on the horizon! Hilary announces her upcoming anthology, Angels Everywhere, and invites contributors to share extraordinary experiences with people they believe were angels in their lives.
Favorite Quote:
"Small steps can equate to small miracles, and they are not to be dismissed."
-Hilary Jastram
Other Topics Discussed:
Grief and Creativity • Writing Through Loss • Emotional Resilience • Mental Health • Creative Blocks • Self-Compassion • Boundaries • Journaling • Personal Growth • Anthology Writing
Connect With Hilary
Follow Hilary for weekly conversations designed to help you write with confidence, publish with purpose, and finally cross the finish line.
About
Write Effing Now! is the podcast for writers who are ready to transform ideas into finished books.
Hosted by editor, publisher, and author Hilary Jastram, each episode provides practical advice on writing, editing, publishing, storytelling, marketing, audiobooks, artificial intelligence, and everything authors need to successfully navigate today's publishing world.
Whether you're writing your first book or building your author career, you'll find inspiration, education, and actionable strategies to help you write with confidence and publish with purpose.
Learn more at BookMarkPub
