One of the conundrums of creative life is the conflict between our desire to be accepted and our desire to be unique.

Many writers pursue one or the other. Some will write to market or write for their fans, even if the work isn’t fulfilling. Others will venture into the creative woods, indulging their writing whims with little or no regard for finding an audience or communicating with readers. Their writing may even be purposefully off-putting to the general public.

Where do you fall in this conflict? Does your writing hew closely to what others expect or want from you? Or do you write only for yourself, without need for connection?

You don’t need to resolve this conflict today – or ever. Simply take some time to think about how you use your creativity and time.