As writers, self-motivation is key. But often this can lead to burnout, or worse yet demotivation. How do we find that writing balance, especially during the holidays? My blog post today speaks to just that—writing with self care, while staying on task.
Do the upcoming holidays have you watching every single Christmas movie you can find on lifetime or the hallmark channel? Did you start them as early as Halloween? No, I am not talking about myself. Jeez. But, if I were to, say, have watched a couple, then I’d have to applaud the increased diversity in these feel good movies. Are any other holiday-ish happenings deterring you from your goals?
The holidays make me feel giddy and nostalgic. I want to cozy up with a good book, or hot chocolate and a movie. I don’t always feel like ensuring I accomplish a 2,000 or 3,000 a day word count, and a part of me thinks nanowrimo is purposely scheduled in November—just to keep writers on task during the holidays. (Don’t know what nanowrimo is? Click the link above.)
Whenever I finalize a major editorial or draft a few heavily-researched chapters, I take a well-deserved break. Because writing is a priority for me, I pour myself into it exhaustively when reaching towards a goal. Recently, I completed a major round of edits to my novel, and returned it to my agent and editor. Ensuring the content updates and additions grew the story and characters was key to me. And that desire for meaningful content and a moving story propelled me forward. But that didn’t deny the fact that moments after returning the draft, I exhaled. I felt accomplished, and relaxed.
So, here are a few helpful tips from me on how to maintain balance in writing, with self-care in mind. In the days that have followed since my editorial draft, I have of course continued to focus on my family, work and exercise. But, I’ve also watched a few movies (not saying which ones), and worked on a few home organization projects. And, I have meditated, read, and caught up with family and friends. I’ve dipped into a relaxing bubble bath. Next week I’m getting a massage. Gawrsh, do I feel recharged. Literally, I’m like a toy with new batteries installed. We’re talkin’ double AA, top of the line batteries. Does R&R after accomplishing a goal recharge you? What is your idea of R&R—maybe long walks in nature, a mini-getaway, or gardening?
It would be easy to continue with this writing hiatus, citing excuses such as I am awaiting a revision, but I would only be dis-servicing myself. And you friend, would be doing the same if you halt moving forward with your goals. Discipline is key. So, set a time limit on your retreat from writing or your goals, be it one week, two weeks, or three. And then stick to it.
Now that I am recharged I am so excited to have some time to blog and work on my super-secret next novel. To be clear, I am not saying I will be writing on Thanksgiving, when I will self-inflict a food-induced coma. But you better believe Black Friday will not only be a shopping day.
My mother, the hardest working person I’ve ever met, used to say ‘everything in moderation’. It is a phrase I often repeat to myself. So, if this blog leaves you with one message let it be to: grind, work hard, grind some more, REST (in the way you need it, without apology). Repeat.
How do you maintain balance with your family, work, and life? If you are a writer do you take breaks after major accomplishments? Do tell, I’d love to know.
Thanks for stopping by my blogspot friends! See you soon, same time, same place.