Recently I went through a period of feeling creatively burnt out and disconnected from my love of writing. The burn out was partially a result of the pressure I put on myself but primarily a reaction to the external pressures of social media. It lead me to reevaluate my reason for creating and my need for validation. I’m slowly rediscovering my love for writing by separating the process of creating from the pursuit of applause. Although I am always grateful to be heard- I’m learning that my art is valid with or without being witnessed.