What: Frustration
Noun, def: a deep chronic sense or state of insecurity and dissatisfaction arising from unresolved problems or unfulfilled needs.

Creative Exercise: Short Story

She stomped her way through the narrow path, watching the dirt swirl up angrily around her hiking boots. Usually, early morning hikes were a soothing escape. But today’s hike was a rage hike. Her frustration was like wearing a large black hood and cloak, deterring all joy and embracing the fury. 

Usually, the sun and the sweat was welcome on her skin. But today it was balls hot. Usually, the deer peeking around a tree was seen as a curious partner. But today she wanted to scream, “What are you looking at?” to its large eyes and cocked ears. Usually, the flies and the bees were simply a natural part of being on the trail. But today every minor buzz was met with flailing karate chops determined to hit anything in her path. The cloak kept her eyes down and her heart closed.

By mile 2, the cloak’s hood flipped back and revealed her face and hair. She picked her head up and looked to the horizon. By mile 4, the cloak fell down to her waist as she straightened her shoulders, unclenched her fists, and breathed deeply for the first time in days. With each step, the midnight cloak’s angry double-knot loosened and the fabric started drifting away. By mile 6 the cloak was barely holding on with a single tie. But it was still attached, flapping in the wind. Like a piece of toilet paper stuck to the bottom of your heel as you head to an important meeting. The deer tried not to laugh.

Creative Exercise: Sketching

A copywriter tries her hand at a silhouette.