The Power of Writing Mantras: Insights from Elizabeth Gilbert

Introduction to Writing Mantras

A mantra is a sacred utterance, a numinous sound, a syllable, word, or phonemes in Sanskrit, believed by practitioners to have powerful psychological and spiritual effects. Mantra meditation plays a significant role in inducing an altered state of consciousness, allowing the practitioner to focus their mind and achieve inner peace. A mantra can be a simple word or phrase that is repeated, or it can be a more complex sentence. The choice of mantra depends on the practitioner's intentions and beliefs.

Elizabeth Gilbert and the Art of Writing

Interview Insights

Elizabeth Gilbert, author of the internationally acclaimed book Eat, Pray, Love, has offered invaluable insights on the writing process and the role of mantras in fostering creativity and resilience. In an interview, she shared several profound mantras that can help writers tap into their full potential. Below are some of the most inspiring snippets from the interview:

Embrace Your Strengths

The Simplest Path

“The simplest path seems to be to embrace what you are good at, which is like swimming with the current rather than against it.”

This mantra encourages writers to focus on their strengths instead of struggling through tasks they find challenging. This approach can help build confidence and motivation, making the writing process more enjoyable and productive.

Self-Reflection and Attention

Attention to Self

“…to figure out what indeed your own life is all about requires a ferocious level of attention to the way you are tuned and equally ferocious stewardship of the Self…”

This mantra emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and introspection in understanding one’s true purpose. By tuning into their own emotions and motivations, writers can better connect with their inner selves and the themes they want to explore in their work.

Writing as a Native Language

Native Tongue

“…once I began writing it became clear to me: This is not a foreign language this is my native tongue.”

Elizabeth Gilbert’s realization that writing is a native language to her highlights the natural and essential connection between the writer and the act of writing. This sense of familiarity can make the writing process feel more comfortable and less daunting.

Writing the Missing Book

Missing Book

“You must write the book that you feel is missing from your bookshelf.”

This mantra encourages writers to write the book that not only resonates with them but also fills a gap they have observed in the existing literature. By filling this gap, writers contribute to a richer and more diverse cultural landscape.

Focusing on Mastery, Not Success

Mastery over Success

“My suggestion is to focus not on becoming successful but on becoming great.”

Elizabeth Gilbert’s advice to focus on becoming great rather than successful challenges the conventional notion of success in writing. Success often comes with external validation, but becoming great is an internal journey of personal growth and artistic development. This mindset can lead to a more fulfilling and sustainable career in writing.

Supporting Art Over Life

Art and Life

“…dont demand that your art supports your life. Instead make a promise that your life will always support your art.”

This mantra reinforces the importance of prioritizing the artistic pursuits over the financial or practical aspects of life. As a writer, it is crucial to create a life that allows for the nurturing of one's art, rather than compromising art to meet life's demands.

Cherish the Process

Free and Liberating

“A degree in writing is not what makes you a writer. Writing every day is what makes you a writer. And writing every day is absolutely free.”

Elizabeth Gilbert’s final words emphasize the importance of regular practice over formal education. By writing every day, writers can develop their skills and deepen their connection with the craft. Writing can be a liberating and joyful process when approached with honesty and dedication.

Conclusion

Elizabeth Gilbert’s mantras offer profound insights into the essence of writing and the journey of the writer. Embracing these mantras can lead to greater self-awareness, personal growth, and a more fulfilling writing career.

Whether you are just beginning your writing journey or looking to recharge your creative energies, these mantras can serve as powerful tools to guide you forward.