Writer’s Health: 8 Questions Every Writer Needs to Stop and Ask Themselves Today!

Sheila & Swede
May 19, 2018
2 min read

When writing is your business, be it part-time or full-time, it’s essential to take care of your number one asset – you!

Writers aim to produce a certain amount of words per day, per week or per month. You aren’t a machine, but even if you were, I would appeal to you this way: all machines should be well looked after. So, are you servicing yourself?

Now, I understand that sentence might be misconstrued, especially since this website supports the creation and promotion of steamy and romantic stories, but I’m sure you know what I meant.

Last year I experienced burnout because I skipped the self-care that all writers should partake in.

If you’ve never experienced burnout but you want to know what it’s like, imagine yourself writing more slowly than you have before. Think of a near-herculean effort just to drag yourself to the computer. You have outlines for articles or books plotted, but you don’t have any desire to actually write them. Just the simple thought of writing makes you feel tired. In fact, you’re ready to stop writing all together. The world probably doesn’t need more of your words.

This mindset I experienced was absolutely crippling, but when I look back at my habits and routines, I’m not surprised. I didn’t ask myself these all-important questions:

Do I take regular rests and breaks from writing to ensure I’m well-rested?
Am I nurturing the relationships in my life that are important to me, i.e. family, partner, friends?
Have I made it a habit to work on writing projects that interest me and keep me engaged?
Do I reward myself for meeting goals and deadlines?
When I feel overworked, underpaid, and underappreciated, do I evaluate my decisions and lifestyle as a writer?
Are my expectations of myself realistic, and do they support me?
Do I put myself in the mood to write by regularly seeking inspiration to fuel my creativity?
Do I eat well, exercise regularly, and keep a regular sleep schedule?

Ask yourself these questions now.

If you answered yes to all of them, great! If not, it might be time to rethink your writing routines and habits. Remember, no one else can produce your content. There is only one of you. And if your goal is to make money from writing, treat yourself as if you are the most valuable asset in your business, because you are.

By ensuring you have healthy and supportive routines and habits in your life, you’ll be at your most productive and creative, day in, day out. What could be more important than that?

If you have a question to add to the list, please tell us what it is in the comments section. Otherwise, please indulge in some selfcare today!