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THE ABCs OF SELF CARE FOR BUSY WRITERS

Writing can take its toll on a writer. Whether you write full- or part-time, chances are you sometimes feel stressed.  At some point, we all need a little self-care

So why is it so hard? I used to think I had to stay busy to look as if I was productive. For other writers, self-care means time away from writing, which leads to feeling guilty.

But I learned to say goodbye to that way of thinking. Now when I take a break from writing to take care of myself, I return to my projects refreshed.

In recent posts, I explored the benefits of having:

The right attitude

A successful mindset; and

A renewed mind

Today, I look for opportunities to include self-care into my writing life by remembering my ABCs.

A IS FOR AFFIRM YOURSELF

Write weekly affirmations

Each week, write a statement of power to yourself. Remind yourself of your strengths as a writer and qualities as a person. Post the message where you can see it every day. Don’t want to use paper? Record your daily affirmation as a reminder on your smartphone. Schedule the message to appear on your phone a few times during the week.

Make a ‘great job’ list

There’s no need to wait for anyone to pat you on the back. When you finish a blog post or finish writing a book, add your accomplishment to a ‘great job’ list for the week. Post the list where you can see it often.

Write in a self-care journal

Take time every day to write about how you plan to take care of yourself.  For example, if you are working on an assignment from a client, use a self-care journal to record how and when you will take breaks or reward yourself.  You can also keep track of your fitness and wellness goals.  This petite journal fits easily into any bag to go where ever you go.  I use Erin Condren journals and planners.

Add a sporty writer’s t-shirt to your wardrobe or inspirational art to your writing space.

B IS FOR BOOST YOUR BODY & BRAIN

Read inspiring stories

Take a break from writing to read inspirational articles or books.  Check out books on the NY Times Bestseller list.

Learn something new

An essential part of taking care of yourself means investing in your education. Read books to increase your knowledge about writing. Take courses, either in-person or online. Attend at least one writer’s conference per year. Last year I attended the Writer’s Digest Annual Conference. The event was full of great workshops, keynote speeches, and networking opportunities.

Pamper yourself

Take a break from writing to treat yourself to a mani/pedi or a massage.  Also, consider investing in a few tools that allow you to pamper yourself at home.  My personal favorite is the Shiatsu shoulder massager, which I started using over the summer. I love the roller balls and the bi-directional movement feature.

Other helpful tools to consider:  Best full-body heating pad and foot massager.

C IS FOR CARE & CREATIVITY

Get some rest

Despite the number of pages you want to write or your deadline, you need your rest. For me, my writing starts early in the morning. But by the end of the day, I am exhausted and too tired to think clearly to write. Whether you get up early or stay up late, don’t overdo it. Don’t deprive your body of sleep.

Invest in Adult Coloring Books

There is no better escape than coloring. Bright colored pens (see also ‘What Are the Best Pens For Journaling? 5 Top Choices‘), markers, and pencils bring adult coloring books to life. Coloring is a great way to relieve stress and create a calming environment after a long day.

Angie Grace offers a relaxing line of adult coloring books focused on different topics such as balance, centered, or just plain WOW.