In this episode of Between the Drafts, I’m talking about something I didn’t plan for… side quests.

I went into 2026 with a clear goal: publish two novels. I’m still committed to that. But after adding an anthology into the mix, the pressure set in… and instead of outlining books or drafting chapters, I did something unexpected.

This episode is a continuation of my reflections on creative redirection and my latest post:

but it’s also a reframing. Side quests aren’t distractions. They’re invitations to play, to finish something lingering, to learn something new, and to reconnect with why we create in the first place.

If you’ve ever felt guilty for stepping away from “the plan,” this episode is for you.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit whoisprose.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Between the Drafts, I reflect on January as a month that felt less like a fresh start and more like an unexpected sparring match: challenging, revealing, but ultimately survivable.

January held a mix of meaningful moments: welcoming a new year with intention-filled traditions, decluttering and reorganizing my art and writing spaces, and rediscovering dozens of unfinished stories that reminded me just how much creative work I’ve been sitting on.

I reflect on the quiet power of organization as creative work, the joy of gifting my daughter her own paint kit, and the clarity that came from finally taking inventory of my ideas. I also celebrate time spent with people I love, laughing, resting, reconnecting, along with stepping outside of my comfort zone in ways that felt deeply empowering. With the experience reminded me that confidence and creativity can exist just for me.

Alongside the cheers, I name the jeers honestly: not doing as much fiction writing as I hoped, navigating yet another winter storm, and facing creative redirection that shifted my plans for 2026. Instead of seeing these moments as failures, I’m learning to view them as information, as opportunities to pause, reassess, and adjust.

I close the episode by sharing my biggest lesson of 2026 so far: choosing myself to win. I reflect on how often we pour into others even when we’re empty, and my commitment to learning how to pour back into myself without waiting for someone else to do it for me.

This episode is both a reflection and an invitation to take stock of your own cheers and jeers, to acknowledge the wins alongside the frustrations, and to move forward with clarity, intention, and self-compassion.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit whoisprose.substack.com/subscribe

I am back with a different podcast.

This podcast will serve more as an audio diary as I share my thoughts on my writing process, work through my creative blocks and much more.

This introduction- well re-introduction is just teaser of what’s to come.

I promise to keep these episodes short and sweet (under 20 minutes) with more exclusive and in-depth content reserved for paid subscribers.

I am also taking questions too, so if you have a question about writing, creativity etc, please send your questions to [email protected] Subject: Question for Between the Drafts.

Thank you in advance to your support and love for my publications and to future episodes as a whole.

Here’s to prosperous season one between the drafts.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit whoisprose.substack.com/subscribe

Sacred spaces are reflective spaces/realms on an offline dedicated to definitive purposes.

Sacred spaces are vital to our mental health.

Sacred spaces help us

* Unwind

* Recharge

* Reflect

* Create

* Tell and share our stories

Establishing Sacred Spaces:

* Identify the space(s) that make you feel seen, safe, happy, relaxed, appreciated, etc.

* Cleanse the space (s) physically and mentally through cleaning, archiving and removing things, items and even people who harm or dampen your space(s).

* Own your space(s) by setting boundaries, creating in your space and utilizing your space often, if not daily.

Journal Prompts:

* Where is your sacred space(s)? Make a list of your sacred spaces or reflect on a space you want to turn into a sacred space.

* Imagine…your ideal sacred space. What does it look like? Where is it located? Use your five senses to help you develop your space.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit whoisprose.substack.com/subscribe