I couldn’t agree more. I’m working on a piece where a character frequently dissociates from reality and has flashbacks due to PTSD. Somewhat existential but I’ve lived those experiences so I’m using my own human emotions to tell a story I think is important to the character and myself. I sometimes think the best way to write is to freewrite first and forget about plot or grammar and what you think the audience wants and let the emotions guide your writing. Then go back and see what’s there. I’ve surprised myself through free writing quite often by seeing emotional reactions I didn’t know I had.

That’s my way of connecting with human emotions and then I add what emotional reactions I’ve experienced to similar situations in real life. Been doing this for about two years now. Still surprise myself every time and I think that’s the most enjoyable part. When I forget there’s an audience (since there’s no guarantee it’ll get published and the best way to write is to write is for yourself. At least for me. Others have their own routines but as long as the emotions are there, as you mentioned, it’s all good. I might not like the stories sometimes but I can’t deny that the emotions and talent are there).