Being an author is such a fulfilling thing that can happen in your life. It feels good to write a novel that can touch the lives of the people surrounding you. At the same time, you can also start to live a life that is full of speaking engagements, especially if you become famous. All these things can be overwhelming, which is why you must make an effort to eliminate the stress that you feel in your life. For today’s article, we are going to share some of the smart ways that you can eliminate stress and anxiety in your life as an author.
Make sure that you follow these tips:
Stop Thinking About Writing As Work
One of the things that you must always remind yourself is your passion for writing. “Tied to the overthinking factor, most individuals who are diagnosed with anxiety as a mental health disorder also experience high levels of perfectionism and compulsive behaviors that begin to drive their lives.” Wendy Iglehart MA, LCPC, LLC explains. With that, never forget that you are creating novels and books, not only because you want to earn royalties out from it. At the same time, you must also take note that writing makes you sane. It allows you to share your stories and thoughts with other people. It is time that you will look at writing in this manner so that you will not feel any pressure that can lead to stress.
However, if you find yourself continually stressed about writing, do not hesitate to seek guidance. With a device and an internet connection, you can access online counseling platforms such as BetterHelp. Licensed counselors are capable of helping improve the quality of your life through proper guidance.
Go On A Vacation
There is also a necessity on your part to go on a break, especially if you have spent a long-time writing a novel. Keep in mind that you must also catch up on a quick vacation so that you can relieve yourself of stress. “Vacations are coping mechanisms that help us adapt to the everyday stresses in our lives.” John Mayer, PhD said. Make sure to go on a trip alone or with someone you love. The choice depends on your preference. It is also advisable to make the travel arrangements ahead of time so that you can include it in your schedule.
Make Time For Friends
Another thing that you have to consider is the necessity to bond with your friends or work colleagues whenever you can. Avoid spending most of your time facing the laptop to write your book. Sometimes, you have to go out of your house and office so that you can have fun with the right people. Take note that the more time you spend with them, the lesser the stress you will feel. However, be sure that you will surround yourself with the positive ones.
Exercise When You Can
At the same time, you must also never forget the importance of going to the gym or doing home exercises. Keep in mind that physical health is something that you must never neglect. Otherwise, you will end up getting exhausted to the point that you will no longer have the energy to get on with the day. An excellent way to bust your stressors away is to be physically active. Aside from this, it can also be beneficial for your mental health. It can help a lot in preventing you from suffering from depression or any other mental illness. All you have to do is to set aside your time to try exercising. “Regular exercise helps you relieve stress and may help prevent or reduce depression. Aerobic exercise and yoga have been found to be particularly beneficial for reducing stress and improving mood,” says ADAA member Stephanie Kriesberg, PsyD
