During the pandemic, CBC’s Shelley Joyce interviewed me on writing in a time of social isolation. My husband laughed when I told him about the interview. He said, “You’re an expert on that, all right.”

Yeah, okay, busted. The truth is, like many writers, my life during that time of crisis hadn't changed much. I work from home as my husband does. Aside from writing, I edit, teach and mentor largely online as I have for nearly two decades. When I’m not at my desk, I take lone walks along quiet rural roads. Except for the writing events and workshops I present, I don’t get out much.

So, then, how do I go about staying productive and, you know, sane?

It helps to be an introvert, as many writers are, of course. I enjoy my own company and do like to be alone. Or, rather, I enjoy being social but need a lot of alone time to recharge. So, the contemplative life of a writer suits me.

Still, working in relative isolation is lonely, and can erode mental health. Especially in winter, I admit I sometimes look like that cliché crazy writer, dressed in yoga pants, bathrobe and slippers, talking to my cat (or the squirrel nattering back at me from the tree outside). When I find myself drifting to that dark place, I make a point of getting dressed for work and putting on a face. (And having a conversation with someone other than the cat.)

And I have a designated workspace, an office that’s mine. Stepping into my office, I ready myself for “work” as others might as they make their commute from home and then, coffee in hand, walk into their workplace.

I have a schedule that I stick to, a regular routine, and clear goals, not just for a month, but for the week and for the day. And then – and this is so important – I celebrate even the smallest goals. Answered my emails? Yay! I get tea and chocolate. Posted my notes for my student of the day? Yay! Tea and chocolate. Reached my word count for the day? Yay! Tea and chocolate, and a little happy dance. You get the picture.