As a coach, writer, and activist, Jena Schwartz believes that space and encouragement are powerful teaching tools, and that our creative and personal growth are inextricably tied to broader social issues. Jena’s writing prompts have helped writers of all genres strengthen their voices, and her own poetry and personal essays have been published widely. She … Continue reading 28| Jena Schwartz, writer, coach, and runner: “Writing has brought me into the body and the body has brought me into more truth on the page”
Tag: writing
Saying Yes is Overrated—This is Why No is Actually the Best (Even if You Have FOMO)
On Saturday evening, Dan and I were browsing at a used bookstore. It smelled like old books and burnt coffee. Fluorescent lighting cast an unnaturally bright glow on the jam-packed shelves. Not counting the woman who wouldn't stop talking loudly on her cell phone (and who wouldn't even pause her conversation to pay for her … Continue reading Saying Yes is Overrated—This is Why No is Actually the Best (Even if You Have FOMO)
If You’re Scared You’re Winning
I was at my friend’s Halloween party, standing by myself, holding a red Solo cup of Chardonnay, and wishing I’d put some effort into my costume. Wearing a flowy tank top to hide my post-partum belly, skinny jeans, and a hat shaped like a pineapple, my look was, ”I have a baby and a toddler … Continue reading If You’re Scared You’re Winning
To Get Your Personal Essay Published, Try This.
If you follow me on Facebook or Twitter, you might have noticed that an essay I wrote got published at the Washington Post. (Click here to read it). It explores why, as someone who eschews mainstream sports, I find so much joy in my young daughters' loyalty to the Red Sox. In it I write, … Continue reading To Get Your Personal Essay Published, Try This.
My Article on Social and Emotional Learning in The Washington Post
Last week I was thrilled to see my article on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) on The Washington Post's On Parenting Section. I knew I wanted to write about this topic ever since Sweet Pea came home from school practicing (and teaching us) her "soup breathing," "birthday cake breathing," and "pretzel breathing." Her teacher doesn't … Continue reading My Article on Social and Emotional Learning in The Washington Post