Take a Break to Keep Writing

Jun 3, 11 • tips • No Comments • Read More »

June is here, and it feels good to be outside. You’ve put away your winter coats, and are enjoying the warm air hitting your face. I can do without the bugs, but that is another story. If you are like many people who make up the world’s population, then you find that you are easily distracted when it’s nice outside. You are able to go biking, running, or even go on a picnic. There are tons of activities going on around you, and you can’t wait to be part of the fun. What’s a freelance writer to do? With all these distractions, how can you get any work done? Don’t try to avoid them; just go out there and enjoy them. It will be good for your writing.

1. Enjoy a Bite to Eat or Coffee with a Friend

Imagine this: You are working like an insane person trying to meet this deadline. Your head is about to explode and you are frustrated. At that moment, a friend calls asking to get a quick bite to eat or coffee. What should you do? Go! One thing that my high school English teacher taught us was that sometimes putting your writing down, taking a break, and then coming back to it will allow you to look at what you’ve written with a fresh pair of eyes. Breaks are always a welcomed change, so go for it.

2. Exercising is Good for Your Mind

I always tell people that the reason I exercise is not for my body, but for my mind. Why? Exercise helps clear my mind by eliminating the everyday stresses and worries that are clouding it. If you can go outside and workout, then that is even better. There is a park that I love to run or bike because I am surrounded by nature, and I feel like I am one with the Earth. Cheesy, I know, but it’s true. When I finish running, I have 1,000 new ideas.

3. Take a Nap

I once saw an episode of Oprah where they were discussing sleep and how Americans are lacking it. The doctor said that a 20-minute power nap is the best way to replenish your tired body. You will get the energy you need to make it through the rest of the day. I didn’t believe it. 20 minutes?! I decided to test it out. Lo and behold, I felt great. Anything longer than 20 minutes, leaves you sluggish and lazy, so don’t do it. After your power nap, start writing.

These are my three favorite ways to not get tired or start procrastinating when writing. What are yours?