Something To Try: Make a “Possibilities List!”

A reader articulated this name for the kind of lists I tend to make. Soon after the shelter-in-place began in March, I made a Possibilities List for myself — a reservoir of ideas to dip into.

This included online groups to connect with, writing workshops I was interested in, and new tools to try. And as I came across new resources, I kept adding to the list.

I’ve made lists in the past, often for books that I “might” read. But having this “activities list” helped me use my adaptability even better. Here are some possibilities I explored this year.

Physical Distancing Felt Like a More Helpful Term than Social Distancing.

Connecting with kindred spirits online was the silver lining of this pandemic for me. For example: I attended several co-working sessions with fellow creatives. Inspired by the different ways in which my writer friends were contributing, I did free listening sessions for sensitive creatives that made me feel like I was giving something back. This also helped create a wider web of community & exposed me to new people & new ideas.

I Learned and Gave Myself Little Treats.

As a little treat, I attended a paid talk hosted by How To Academy between the wonderful Julia Cameron, the author of the creativity classic The Artist’s Way & the equally lovely Elizabeth Gilbert, which I really loved. I also attended a lot of free events, such as those hosted by my local library.

I did several short writing-related workshops, such as “Do I need permission for that?” mini-workshop with author Jane Friedman who I highly recommend. I have been working on my next book for intuitive writers & wanted to figure out if I could quote from another book on writing (In short: Around 6 words is considered “fair use.” Anything more than that needs the hard-to-get permissions).

I Tried Out Some New Tools.

I tried out some tools such as Focusmate, a virtual co-working website to find someone to work with online. It’s easy-to-use and free for a basic version. I liked it, but didn’t love it. I also tried out Otter, an AI based transcription service that converts audio to text. I give it a solid B+. If you’re thinking of starting a podcast and want a provide a written transcription or need to transcribe recorded video interviews for work, this is a good option.

Through all of this exploration and experimentation, I gave importance to my own needs.

Even though I am an introvert, the F (for Feeler) in my INFP personality type means I love being around people.

It’s just that I like to connect one-on-one or in small groups. So, I listened to my need for connectedness instead of discounting it and looked for small groups that resonated with me. As a high-sensation seeking sensitive person, I also crave variety and new experiences and I tried to give myself these as well.

Having a “possibilities list” was like having arrows in my quiver. Sometimes, my adaptability can mean that I just go along with whatever is available. But giving options to my natural adaptability made it feel like a real strength this year.

Even though I didn’t do everything that was on my list, I did a LOT of it. A list feels like it’s nothing much, but I think it’s like a container for all the things that feel attractive to us or that have an energy that’s calling to us. I’ll definitely be making some more lists in the new year.

Ritu Kaushal is the author of the book The Empath’s Journey, which combines personal stories with practical tools to help highly sensitive people channel their deep sensitivity. 

You can find The Empath’s Journey here.