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Hey you,

Though I don’t really write in ink these days, at least in the digital realm where screens illuminate our paths, my words have been gracefully dancing across pixels. Yet, I confess that my writing routine remains a constant struggle to tame the chaos that is consistency.

There have been moments when life’s demands and unexpected detours have forced me to take hiatuses from the craft I hold dear. Though necessary, these pauses have sometimes left me feeling like being off-beat.

One such hiatus occurred recently, when the demands of my studies and a new job consumed my days. As weeks turned into three months, I yearned for the familiar rhythm of writing.

When I finally returned, the blank page felt more intimidating than ever. Maybe I had lost my touch. Perhaps the creativity had run dry.

But deep within, I knew I shouldn't let these doubts hold me. I had to reclaim my writing routine.

So I went back to sending out The Hard Truths every Sunday. It should be easy: I’m already comfortable with my work routine and have passed my term papers. I finished a long vacation in Italy and Portugal (and another short trip in Bad Schandau—more at the end of this letter!). I’m back to my normal, boring life.

I was all about showing up. Clicking on that “Schedule” button. As if it’s a weekly checklist.

Which I don’t really aim for.

Because even though consistency does mean showing up, it’s also about honoring the writing process. Feeling fulfilled afterward.

I realized that a writing routine goes beyond the physical act of writing.

It’s a state of mind—a willingness to observe, reflect, and find inspiration in the world around us.

It’s in the quiet moments of contemplation. It’s through glances at everyday life that our stories take shape.

The struggle to maintain a consistent writing routine:

• isn't a sign of failure but an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
• shapes us, refines our craft, and ultimately leads us to new depths of self-expression.

I want to embrace the pockets of time to reconnect with my words, no matter how small. Here’s how I’ve been doing it:

😌 Creating a writing ritual

I believe writing really is more than just sitting down and typing words onto a blank page. It’s a time when I dig deep and connect with my thoughts.

And writers usually have a writing ritual that helps them transition into a creative mindset. It could be lighting a scented candle or brewing a cup of tea. It could be playing soft instrumental music as background noise.

For me, I like to create a mental image of what I will write before touching the keys of my laptop. I like to imagine the content structure and anecdotes I’ll share.

A pre-writing ritual like mine or any other writer’s is a small moment of anticipation where we cheer ourselves on and build excitement. It tells us we’re about to embark on a journey of self-expression.

(The following two tips focus more on the deeper purpose and impact of our writing. I believe that maintaining such a focus infuses our writing routine with more meaning and significance. It becomes less about ticking off a task and more about honoring the process. This, in turn, encourages us to stay consistent and committed to our writing practice as we recognize the profound impact it can have on both ourselves and those who read our words.)

🤕 Embracing vulnerability

Baring our souls and allowing others to witness the raw, unfiltered aspects of our being is hella scary. It’s because we’re exposed to judgment and the possibility of being misunderstood.

But writing, for me, is an act of vulnerability. It’s about embracing the truth of who I am and sharing it with the world, even when it exposes my struggles and insecurities.

Willingly being vulnerable opens the door for profound connections. It invites us and others to see that we’re not alone in our struggles and fears.

🤞 Sharing stories that bridge values

In a world filled with challenges and adversity, we need more stories that inspire hope, resilience, and unity. I want to do more than share my experiences and vulnerabilities through my writing. I want to invite my readers to see the beauty and strength within themselves and the world around them.

For example, my participation in EC2U Students Week brings me to stories of friendships with people from different backgrounds and cultures. They emphasize the power of empathy and unity in fostering positive change and creating a more inclusive society.

I also love to share my journey of self-exploration, overcoming self-doubt, and discovering my potential. It’s not meant to brag or show that I’m better than other people. It's intended to underscore the importance of resilience, self-belief, and authenticity.

Ultimately, our ink trails will be the conduits of our hearts as we navigate the winding roads of our writing journeys.

Disclaimer: Everything expressed here comes from my personal experience. I never claim to be an expert.

🔙 ICYMI

​To love is not to worry​

One way not to love someone ❤️

​There’s a safe haven where nothing grows​

It’s closer than you think 😎

📢 Shout-outs

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Life as an 🇮🇩 in 🇩🇪

Guess who’s back from yet another vacation? 🏖

This one was more like a quick (yet intense) climbing trip to Bad Schandau, a small town in Saxon-Switzerland.

I talked about the trip a bit in last week’s edition, in which I mentioned something called Multi-Pitch climbing. Turns out, it’s sooo exhausting and scary and frustrating—all at the same time. 😭

There’s one public holiday in May called Christi Himmelfahrt (English: Ascension Day), which uniquely also celebrates Herrentag/Männertag (English: Men’s Day) in Germany. And Herrentag/Männertag turns out to also be a regionally used term for Vatertag (English: Father's Day).

On this public holiday, expect crowded public transportation, especially trains and buses. In addition to families on the road, there were many drunk people too.

I also went swimming for the first time since moving abroad from Indonesia. There’s this place called Toskana Therme (English: Toscana thermal baths), which I ABSOLUTELY adore. 😍 I didn’t expect the 2-hour visit to be so relaxing, especially after an intense sport. It feels like taking a long shower, which was super nice because when we walked back to our apartment, we felt really ✨ clean ✨.

I hope you enjoy this letter. See you at the next one. 💕

Cheers,

Devi