Hi Reader,

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas! The holiday rush is winding down. The wrapping paper’s been tossed, the turkey’s carved (again), and your fridge is probably full of leftovers and half-eaten desserts.

And honestly? That’s perfect.

Because this whole slow stretch between Christmas and New Year’s isn’t just for food, movies, and football (though, yes to all of those). It’s also one of the best times of the year to pause and recharge.

Here’s your gentle reminder:

If you’re tired, be tired. If your brain is foggy from stuffing and sweets, that’s okay. The words will come back. They always do. And when they do, I hope you’re writing from a place of calm - not burnout.

You don’t have to “get back to work” just yet.
You can write one sentence.
One thought. One line of dialogue. One idea scribbled on a napkin.
​That’s momentum.

So in between movies and second helpings, I hope you’ll give yourself a moment to:

• Reflect on everything you wrote this year (even if it was messy)
• Jot down a goal or two for 2026 (even if it’s just “write more”)
• Reconnect with the joy of storytelling
• Remember that creativity isn’t a race - it’s a rhythm

You’re allowed to rest and still be a writer.​
You’re allowed to not write and still be creative.
And when 2026 rolls in, you’ll be ready to start fresh - with a full heart, a rested mind, and maybe a notebook that smells faintly like gingerbread.

And in case you missed it, here's my latest video covering these ideas (and more):
🎥 The Writing Mindset That Changes Everything – How to Think Like a Writer in 2026

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🎁 Still Thinking About a Creative Gift for Yourself (or a Friend)?

I’m offering $50 off my one-hour coaching call until December 31st.

You can use this time for:

• Story or script feedback
• Brainstorming a new idea
• Talking through rewrites
• Discussing career strategy
• Or just reconnecting with your voice and motivation

📌 Use code SANTA50 at checkout.
🎄 Book Your Session + Use Code SANTA50​
​Offer valid until Dec 31

Book Your Coaching Call Here!

It’s a great way to give your 2026 stories a head start - and to remind yourself that you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

And remember, whether you’ve written 10 pages or 100, whether you’re brimming with ideas or just learning to trust yourself again, I’m proud of you.

I’m glad you’re here.

And I can’t wait to see what stories you’ll tell in the New Year.

Rest up. Write when it feels good.
And I’ll see you soon.

Happy Holidays!

Neil

​

P.S. Check out my feature film, Spin the Wheel - out now on Tubi!

Click here to watch for FREE: https://tubitv.com/movies/100030151/spin-the-wheel​

Learn more about storytelling, screenwriting, and filmmaking:​ www.neilchasefilm.com.

Looking for in-depth help with your script, story or film? Check out my one-on-one coaching services here.

Check out my Gothic horror-western novel, Iron Dogs, available in eBook, print, and audiobook.

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