How to write a paper when you are distracted by the news

The world is on fire. There is a crisis. You cannot focus. The paper seems pointless.

Here is the truth. The paper is not pointless. The paper is your job right now. Your job is to learn. Learning is how you will help the world later.

But you cannot ignore the crisis. So do both.

Set a timer for 25 minutes. Check the news. Set a timer for 25 minutes. Write. Alternate.

You are not a machine. You cannot compartmentalize perfectly. That is fine.

Write what you can. When you cannot write, do something else. Rest. Call a friend. Donate. Volunteer.

The paper will get written. The world will still be on fire. You will do what you can.

How do you write during a crisis? Tell me your strategies. 🌍