From Elif Batuman “Proust Pep Talk”
To avoid falling into the trap of unproductive introspection, try focusing on insights that can be applied to your life or creative work.
Read widely: Expose yourself to a variety of perspectives and voices, both in literature and non-fiction. readingisworthwhile
Look for connections: Seek patterns and connections between your experiences and the world around you. This will help you move beyond navel-gazing and make your introspection more universal.
Explore the “why”: When reflecting on your thoughts and emotions, don’t just describe them—explore the reasons behind them. This will help you understand your experiences and make your writing more insightful. meaning
Focus on specific details: Instead of writing about emotions in a vague or generalized way, anchor them to specific moments, memories, or observations. This will make your writing more relatable and evocative.
From Nir Eyal:
Ask what over why