As we know writing can be very rewarding and very challenging. Whether you’re writing full-time or not, the process can be stressful. It takes a lot to navigate deadlines, rejections, and the pressures of the creative process. May is Mental Health Awareness Month so here are three ways authors can safeguard their mental and emotional health:
1. Create
Boundaries:
Creating boundaries includes setting limits on work hours, managing expectations with collaborators, and setting time for self-care and relaxation. Burnout doesn’t help you become more productive, in fact it’s exactly the opposite. You may want to reach that deadline but it shouldn’t mean you have to sacrifice your health and well-being.
2. Prioritize
Self-Care:
Self-care is essential for maintaining mental and emotional well-being, yet it's often neglected when working on your goals. Prioritizing self-care means making time for activities that feed your mind, body, and soul. Meditation, exercise and hobbies can help to reduce stress. And don’t forget other creative pursuits that you do for the fun of it. Rest is also very important. It’s hard to be creative is you are completely drained and tired.
4. Seek
Support:
Writing can be
solitary, but you don’t have to go it alone. Seeking support from friends,
family, and other writers can provide emotional support. Whether it's joining a
writing group, attending workshops and conferences, or simply reaching out to a
friend for encouragement, you can benefit from connecting with others.
It's easy for
authors to neglect their mental and emotional health while working. However, by taking care of themselves, authors can nurture their
creativity and enjoy the writing process without burning out.
