Pets of the FWC Return to Talk Writing Advice
Notes from a Writer's Desk
In 2025, the pets of the Fellowships & Writing Center (FWC) spoke up about the many ways humans could learn from them when it came to writing. Their insights brought a fresh perspective to writers around Harvard. I recently had the chance to sit down with the current FWC pets and hear their thoughts on their new audience and the effects of their advice one year later. Speaking over email with Pretzel, Sammi, Kristi, Cosmo, and Kevin, we discussed work environments, self-care, and healthy habits to support your writing.
First, some of you dressed up for today’s interview. Can you tell me about your outfit choices?
Sammi: Mee-Yes, of course! I have a large collection of bow ties that I wear every day! If you want to feel your best, it’s important to wear things you enjoy. Adding a splash of color to my outfit makes me feel ready to take on the important tasks of the day, like prying open the new baby locks on the cupboards—who put these here anyway?! You writers should think about dressing up to boost your mood. Maybe you’ll feel even more motivated to write then!
Cosmo: Well … I just like to wear what’s comfortable. Wearing my favorite bandana every day helps me to feel at ease. I live in a big city, so when I go out, wearing my bandana is like bringing a piece of home and comfort with me! I think you should just dress comfortably so you feel safe when you’re doing some stressful writing.
I understand you do most of your work from home. How do you arrange your work environment?
Kristi: Work environment is very important to me. I arrange every space I inhabit to be perfectly suited to my needs by claiming all the largest, most comfortable furniture for myself. When you are writing, you should be the queen of your space!
Kevin: Something I think a lot of people forget is the value of creating a positive sonic environment. When my human is writing, I always perch on her shoulder and chirp my gentle encouragements. While I can’t sing to every writer, I’m sure other humans would find their favorite music or nature sounds would lift their mood and help them to stay focused.
What do you think about the results of your efforts to educate writers? Has anything changed since you last spoke out?
Pretzel: There has been some progress, but I still see too many humans staring at their flat metal devices, even when they are taking a break from work. To really do their best writing, humans need to make time for play and creativity away from their screens. I take time each day to practice my hunting skills and keep my brain sharp. By taking more screen breaks, I bet humans could get lots of new ideas for their writing!
Cosmo: I wasn’t here to offer my advice last time, so I’d like to share my perspective now. To me, balancing work and rest is key! I love taking long walks, but I always follow them up with a long nap in my basket. If you try to spend all your time working, you’ll find yourself tired and burnt out. Set a reasonable goal for the day, and when you’ve completed it, take time to rest and recharge by doing something different.
Is there anything else you would like to add to your previous advice?
Kevin: As the lone bird here, I’d like to offer my feathered perspective on the topic of writing. Throughout the day, I require a variety of healthy snacks to sustain me. Humans engaged in writing should also always have a snack on hand and eat regular meals. I also enjoy puzzles and brain teasers. If you’re stuck in your writing, why not try a sudoku or other puzzle to get your mind working in a different way?
Sammi: I love socializing and meeting new people! It gets me all energized and I zoom around the house! I think you should spend more time working with other people so you can chat, take breaks together, and avoid feeling isolated. Working near friends or even strangers in a café can give you a sense of community and accountability. And don’t forget to bring me back some milk!
What is the most important lesson you want to share with writers?
Pretzel: Take care of yourself by exercising, having a nice bath, and eating delicious meals. I spend several hours each day on grooming so that I feel my best. Self-care is a must for anyone working on a long writing project like a dissertation. You don’t have to copy me, but finding your own self-care routine will help support your long-term goals.
Kristi: I’d say you should never underestimate the power of a good nap! As a growing cat, sleep is my number one priority. If you’ve been working for a long time, even a short lie-down will give your eyes and mind a rest. Check in with your body regularly while working so you can notice when you need a break before you start to crash.
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