Self-Care for Authors Increases Productivity

Self-Care for Authors & Writers

OMG! I’m launching my empowering eco fantasy book, Rainforest Rescue (Song Bird 3) in just three weeks-time!

The pressure is mounting!

How to Remain Stress-Free and Increase Productivity?

I have SO much to do … I need to organize media interviews, book reviews and book signing events at bookshops, schools, libraries and festivals. I await delivery of books, costumes, bookmarks and banners.

Launching a book is the most exhilarating, exhausting and emotionally draining time in my life. I’m spending long hours behind the computer, on the phone and at meetings.

So, I must ensure I don’t experience a meltdown if things don’t go according to plan.

Self-care might be my saviour!

What’s Self-Care?

Self-care is the mindful practice to nurture your mind, body and spirit each day. It’s about taking daily time out to relax, unwind and recharge.

What’s my Credentials to share Self-Care tips?

I’m a survivor of parent-teacher bullying and mental illness. I know how easy a teacher can suffer anxiety, stress and sleeplessness when things go wrong. That’s why I wrote Me and Him: A Guide to Recovery, 30 Steps to Wellness.

I created well-being and self-care blogs and articles for health magazines.

Me and Him: A Guide to Recovery by Karen Tyrrell

How can Self-Care help me as an Author?

How can self-care turn my health and productivity around?

 Self-care empowers me, Karen Tyrrell, to care for my well-being while writing, organizing and presenting a rigorous schedule of events.

As the launch of my 11^th book, Rainforest Rescue draws closer, I focus on stressing-less, sleeping better and staying well.

For me, my physical, mental and emotional health becomes my top priority.

Why do Authors and Writers need self-care?

#10 Self-Care tips for Writers

1. Care for your back by investing in a sturdy office chair that supports your back and neck. Adjust your chair and desk to the right height for you. Maintain correct posture when typing. Make sure your arms are extended out and aren’t bent at the elbow. This is to relax the ulna nerve which stretches from your neck to your fingers. Stand up frequently, stretch your legs and exercise. Alternatively, invest in a standing desk.
2. Care for your hands, your most important tool as a writer. Learn finger and hand stretches to relieve repetitive strains. See a hand physio for any concerns.
3. Take care of your voice. Writers supplement their income by presenting author talks and writing workshops. So, be careful not to shout or strain your voice. Drink lots of water and see a specialist if you experience voice loss.
4. Engage in relaxing activities you really enjoy, such as going for a walk, taking a bath, having a cuppa, gardening, listening to music or reading. Schedule it into your daily routine so that it becomes a natural part of your life. Try to squeeze in yoga or meditation before starting your day. Visualise a safe, peaceful space e.g. a comforting room, a beautiful beach or lovely bush setting, and spend 5-10 minutes imagining this in your mind.

5. Maintain your friendships. Connect regularly with friends and family.Plan something to look forward to, a holiday, day trip or an outing with friends.

6. Ask for help. If you are experiencing stress or worry, talk to someone about it. Speak to a friend, family member, you GP or a counsellor. Ask for help when you need it and accept help when it’s offered – realise you can’t do everything.

7.Get regular exercise. This will reduce stress levels and improve your health. Find an activity you enjoy. Exercising with others can help you to stay motivated. Aim for at least 20 minutes a day; even a 10-minute walk will benefit you.

8.Eat a nutritious, balanced diet. This helps with energy levels and stress management. Avoid consuming too much caffeine or sugar. It may help you to feel more energised in the short term but can have negative effects in the long term.

9. Be kind to yourself. A positive and compassionate attitude can help you manage difficult times. Encouraging and rewarding yourself for getting through a difficult period or achieving a goal will reinforce your self-confidence.

10.Get good quality sleep. Minimize screen time to sleep well at night. Go to bed and get up at the same time each day. Switch off all electronics at least an hour before going to bed so you can wind down. If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, try a relaxation technique or quiet activity until you feel sleepy again.

For me, I plan to take time out to relax each day.

What about YOU?

What’s your ACTION plan for self-care?

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