My grandma once said, "First years don't always follow a traditional calendar year, Honey.” I like to remember her words when the rhythm of life inaugurates a new era. A tender loss, triumphant start, or unexpected move—the seasons of life turn, turn, turn.

Monitoring my health symptoms sometimes feels like I’ve met the wolf that ate Little Red Riding Hood’s grandma. The responsibility is daunting and monstrous, and I forget why I’m doing it. One day, I figured I would track my symptoms on paper to identify patterns. I learned that this strategy is called “control journaling.”

Dwelling on current woes in home and work life is normal. As an artist, introspection is often the way to a wellspring of ideas. If you are isolated at home because of pain or fatigue, deriving inspiration from seemingly mundane or limited experiences can help you cope.

Some days, brain fog dampens the creative spirit. Stress, sadness, and physical pain can make the creative process strenuous. Consider these daily questions when you’re feeling unwell but still wish to be creative.