When I was writing my children’s book, Barry Needs a Hug, I was supposed to be focused on the writing: the overall story arc, the rhythm and meter of the rhyme, the structure. But the main character, Barry, kept showing up in my head, and all I wanted to do was draw him.

I knew I shouldn’t. I kept trying to stay on track, reminding myself that the writing came first—that shaping the story was more important than designing the characters. After all, without the story, there wouldn’t even be a book for the characters to live in. But the urge didn’t fade. It was like a hungry bear in the background, impossible to ignore.

Eventually, I gave in. I drew Barry, just a couple of quick sketches. And suddenly, everything quieted. I felt lighter, more focused, and was able to turn my attention back to the writing.
That’s when I realized: sometimes, you have to feed the bear.

What Does “Feed the Bear” Mean?

In the creative process, distractions often show up disguised as other creative urges. That’s the hungry bear, an idea or itch that won’t leave you alone.

Feeding the bear means giving that urge just enough attention to quiet it, so you can refocus on what really matters. Think of it as throwing it a salmon to keep it busy for a little bit so you can focus on what you need to.

Why It Matters

When I finally sketched Barry, the restless urge quieted and I could return to the story with fresh focus. Feeding the bear did not derail me. It freed me.

Sometimes the best way to keep going is to briefly honor the distraction. Give it just enough attention to settle it, then return to the work that matters.

Has a hungry bear ever pulled at your focus?