Taking a Whole Life Approach to Writing

So the last year has been a tough one writing wise. I think part of that was I spent a good part of the year revising. Revising is so different from writing. It's important but it's where all of the work is and it isn't as fun. It got to the point where I was dreading the time I set aside to write each day, and I wouldn't do do it or I'd force something out. I justified saying life was just too busy or my schedule had changed and how was I supposed to find the time to write.

I still struggle with finding the time to write, but this year along with my writing goals, I made some goals involving my earth and exercising. And the days that I exercise (even though I should have less time) I find that I'm writing more. The ideas are flowing and overall it's just better. It made me realize that my creativity stems from being well. If I want to write, then I need to be taking care of myself emotionally, physically and spiritually.

For me that means getting exercise regularly, getting enough sleep and eating well. Emotionally, I need time to decompress (mostly by reading). Spiritually for me involves prayer and church. I know it will be different for everyone though. It's helping me in every aspect of my life.

Now I'm not consistently exercising every day yet. But I'm getting there. My outlook is better and I'm excited about my current story. Plus, I'm poking at Lexy again, getting into revisions again. My outlook is good and my energy level is up.

How are you taking care of yourself as a writer?