Druidic Musings: Planetary planning and narrative arcs
BTS of how I use astrology to plan my weeks and why your story arc is just as important as your character arc(s)
Happy Wednesday! Hail Hermes!
Because I can’t make up my mind, I’m trying out a new format for these missives. Here goes…
In today’s musings, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on…
🔮 Using astrology to plan my week
🖋 The importance of having a narrative arc for your story
The importance of having a narrative arc for your story
Narrative arc (or story arc) is the path of your overall story. Character arc is the path a specific character takes during your story. Narrative arc is external, while character arc is internal.
In my work with clients, I’ve noticed many of them putting more of their focus on character arcs as opposed to narrative arcs. Both are equally important as they work together.
Behind every good story is a solid narrative arc; a clear beginning, middle and end. Knowing and understanding your story’s structure will help ensure your story stays on course.
Because without it, what you tend to end up with is a list; a bunch of scenes strung together. When you don’t need to worry about the overall structure of your story, you can get to the good bits. You can be an alchemist, bringing your story to life once it’s not so indeterminate and shapeless.
A narrative arc is a guide for your story. Emphasis on the word “guide” as you can always change it while writing. I change my mind all the time while writing! But I can’t deny how useful it is for getting clear on the story you’re trying to tell.
I love using tarot as one way of helping clients come up with new ideas for their narrative arcs. Curious? Yesterday, I shared a reel on IG of me doing this with a simple 3-card spread. Give it a try!
Using astrology to plan my week
Okay, astrology nerds (or wannabes)! Let’s talk planetary days!
In this era of extreme output, finding ways to maximize your energy while embracing a sense of balance and harmony can enhance your overall well-being.
During the last six months, I’ve been learning how to tap into the natural ebb and flow of cosmic energies by planetary planning. It’s been a game changer for my productivity and my energy levels during the day and has changed the way I operate in my business.
Rooted in ancient astrological traditions, each day of the week is associated with a specific planet, offering unique qualities and energy. For example, I’m now sending these missives on a Wednesday, rather than on a Sunday like before. There’s a reason for that, and it has to do with the planet that rules Wednesday.
When you understand and utilize these planetary energies, you can optimize your productivity, creativity and inner balance – which I’m about because balance is important.
Monday is ruled by the Moon
As much as I love that song, I no longer subscribe to Manic Mondays. When I understood the concept of planetary days, it finally made sense why I never used to like Monday mornings.
In the past, I always found myself rushing and trying to muster up energy that I didn’t have. Back then, I had no idea that by forcing myself to power through the day, I was going against the energy of the cosmos. No wonder it felt so hard.
The Moon represents the divine feminine, which is a slower type of energy. I now use Mondays for planning my weeks and doing soulful rituals. I purposely do not schedule meetings on Mondays.
Writerly things to do on a Monday:
Plan and set intentions for your writing that week
Gett your writing projects and desk organized
Meditate or journal
Tuesday is ruled by Mars
Tuesday should be designated as the start of the week. It’s a get shit done kind of day. Tuesday is ruled by Mars, the planet of war.
Mars fuels our ambition and courage. It fires up our motivation and passion, making it an ideal day for challenging tasks, engaging in a high-intensity workout or embarking on new endeavors.
Need to assert some boundaries with a particular person? Or the courage to ask your boss for a raise? Tuesday’s a good day to do it.
Writerly things to do on a Tuesday:
Start a new project
Do something scary like submitting a piece of writing to be published
Work on your to-do list (you know, all those “writing admin-type tasks” you’ve been putting off)
Wednesday is ruled by Mercury
Wednesday is another get shit done kind of day. But the energy is vastly different from Tuesday. Wednesday is ruled by Mercury, also known as the messenger of the gods.
Mercury governs communication, intellect, mental agility and technology. (This is why you always hear about tech not working during Mercury retrograde.)
As an Aquarius rising with the planet Mercury in my first house, Wednesday is hands down my favorite day of the week. Remember me saying there was a reason for sending these missives on a Wednesday? Welp… this is it.
Wednesday is perfect for activities that stimulate your mind, such as reading, writing, brainstorming or engaging in stimulating conversations. Hail Hermes!
Writerly things to do on a Wednesday:
Work on your book
Sending newsletters to your subscribers
Brainstorm, outline or mind map your story
Conduct research for your book
Thursday is ruled by Jupiter
I think of Jupiter as the benevolent king. The best way I can describe Jupiter’s energy is that of MORE. Think of your favorite thing ever, then add glitter. That’s Jupiter!
It’s the largest planet in our solar system and associated with growth, abundance and wisdom. This day is ideal for higher learning and expanding your horizons. It’s also a good day to work on your finances.
Writerly things to do on a Thursday:
Take a writing class or attend a writing retreat
Read a book or listen to a podcast on writing craft
Review your income/expenses from your writing business
Friday is ruled by Venus
Everybody loves Friday. Friday is ruled by Venus, the planet of love, beauty and harmony. Sidebar: How was Venus retrograde for you? I learned A LOT about myself!
Friday carries the energy of creativity and emotional connection. Use this day to surround yourself with beauty, whether it be through art, literature (my personal fave), poetry, music or your loved ones. Cultivate self-love and kindness toward yourself. As writers, we are very hard on ourselves most of the time.
Writerly things to do on a Friday:
Treat yourself to something nice like a yummy, new notebook
Have a play in Canva and design graphics to promote your books
Create a mood board for your book or a specific character
Go for a walk or visit a museum or art gallery for writing inspiration (the main thing is taking a break from writing and giving your brain a chance to rest)
Saturday is ruled by Saturn
I enjoy working for a few hours on a Saturday morning. The planet Saturn is about structure, discipline and responsibility. It’s a stern and stoic energy.
Saturn is very much a disciplinarian. It’s my personal ruling planet as a Capricorn sun, so I feel this energy the most on a Saturday. Fun fact: Traditionally, Saturn is also the ruling planet of Aquarius. So that’s double Saturn energy for me.
I often do a few admin things on a Saturday such as respond to emails or check my social media stats, but this day is mostly about getting things done on the home front. Things like meal planning, grocery shopping and house chores.
Writerly things to do on a Saturday:
Organize your writing desk
Plan your week ahead
Clean the house, so you can’t use that as an excuse for not writing (I say this in love)
Sunday is ruled by the Sun
The Sun represents vitality, self-expression and self-confidence. It's a day for resting, rejuvenation and enjoying life. Spend time outdoors, engage in creative pursuits or connect with your inner child.
Writerly things to do on a Sunday:
Nothing: Prioritize rest, relaxation and play
Express yourself creatively, whatever that means to you
Send newsletters, if you’re intentionally harnessing the beautiful energy of the Sun to express yourself
Would love to know if you found this useful and if you will try using astrology to help plan your weeks and writing activities.
Next time on From the Desk of a Book Druid: Writing + Mysticism…
On the last Wednesday of this month, From the Desk of a Book Druid subscribers will get exclusive missive on…
🖋 Creating a compelling narrative arc
✨ Entering the dark half of the year
PS: I’m helping writers get ready for NaNoWriMo… with tarot! Would you like to join us? Get the details here.
Yours in magick and mysticism,
Lakeisha xo