While established writers may have more relaxed schedules, beginners typically have to balance several other jobs to pay the bills while maintaining a regular writing routine. The result? Utter exhaustion, and perhaps even burnout.
If this describes you, know that you’re not alone! I currently work four jobs (not including writing), and I’ll admit that there are some mornings where it feels almost impossible to open my eyes!
So how can we manage this type of schedule successfully? Here are a few practical tips:
1. Go the Extra Mile to Motivate Yourself – Remember, it is not possible to be over-motivated! Others may not cheer us on constantly, so we have to learn to do this for ourselves. I love motivational quotes, and surround myself with daily calendars, apps, desktop wallpaper, and blogs which will encourage and inspire me. Also, I remind myself daily that I’m doing all this to honor God and follow His call…if my only goal was getting rich and famous, I would have quit long ago!
2. Take Time to Wake Up – Though it is tempting to sleep until the last minute, starting your day at a frantic pace is not the way to keep it up for the long haul. Wake up in time to shower, shave, and calmly read for a moment. I do this even when working at home, and this refreshing routine always helps me feel like “me” again.
3. Never Underestimate the Power of Scent – I surround myself with invigorating scents, from energizing body wash, shampoo, and shaving cream to the delicious smell of strong coffee and the delightful aroma of a wax burner in my classroom. This can do wonders to clear the cobwebs and jump start your mind for another day.
Above all, keep celebrating your successes and build yourself up with positive feedback! Your schedule may be daunting, but you can do this!
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