Writers work extremely hard. There is so much to do and not enough hours in the day to get it done. Don’t forget to take a few moments each day to ensure your physical and mental health remain strong.
Getting sick from exhaustion will only slow you down in the long run, so be proactive and take of yourself before your body forces you to slow down.
Here are some of the things that I have personally implemented in my life to create a life-work balance. You don’t have to do all of them, or any of them. But pick something. Take care of your body so it can take care of you!
1. Get plenty of sleep
Your brain needs it and you will be more productive in the long run if you are getting enough sleep. Experts promise more happiness, a commodity we can all use more of! You know what enough sleep is. It’s different for each of us. Figure out what your optimal number is and make sure you get that—at least most of the time!
2. Exercise
This can also be unique to you, but pick some kind of physical exercise that you can incorporate into your life with ease. Even if you just take a walk around the block or do a yoga video. I personally love to lift weights (that’s a new thing for me—the gym used to terrify me!) and make my body strong. Sitting in front of the computer and writing can take a toll on your body, especially your hip flexibility. Do squats! It will help!
3. Take up drinking—Tea!
Or water.
Taking a few moments out of your day and sipping a favorite drink can be very relaxing, plus there are actual health benefits to drinking water and tea. Resist the urge to work during this time. Stare out the window or watch the flames in your fireplace. Allow your brain to zone out for a while. Just like your body, it needs a break too. My new favorite drink is the London Fog. I might love the aroma of this foamy drink even more than the taste. Figure out your favorite drink and order up.
4. Read a Book
It seems crazy to tell a bunch of writers that they need to keep reading, but you’d be surprised (or maybe you wouldn’t!) how many of us forget to take time to refill our wells. In addition to becoming a better writer by reading, it also helps your brain to relax and think about someone else’s story for once!
5. Get Help!
If your plate is full, think about hiring out some tasks. Figure out the tasks that must be
yours, writing for example. Then figure out what you could hire out. Like graphic designers or editors.
BiblioCrunch can help you find a professional that suits your needs. Don’t be overwhelmed. It’s okay to farm out some of your work!
Check out the LearnSelfPublishingFast course offerings when you are relaxed and ready to work again. Learn skills that can make your life easier and reduce your stress.
Good luck, and as my mother would say, drink plenty of water!
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