5 Ways to Cope When You're Feeling Overwhelmed

It's every newbie writer's dream to garner a contract or two, but be careful what you wish for, little cowboy. When those contracts come at you, there are these things called dead lines. There's a reason for that word, as in you're dead in the publishing water if you don't get your manuscript in by the agreed upon date.

But no problem, right? Because hey, after all, you're a writer, eh? There's just one small glitch with that line of thinking, Hoss. Life. Sometimes life gets in the way of writing, until you get so stressed out you crumple in a heap of overwhelming despair. Even if you're not a writer life can be overwhelming. How are you going to cope?

Here are a few ways to take care of yourself when the going gets tough . . .

Sleep

It seems counterintuitive to sleep when you've only got so many hours in a day and you should be working toward meeting your goal, doggone it! But here's the deal, you need to get your 8 hours of Zzz's in or you won't be creative. You won't even be coherent. Keep a regular sleep pattern especially during crunch times.

Unplug

Yes, marketing and social media are part of the writerly game, but every now and then you need to unplug, even if it's just for a day. The world won't come to a screeching halt because you're out of touch for twenty-four hours. Disconnecting from crazy will soothe your inner crazy beast.

Exercise

Don't freak out over this. I'm not saying you need to put on a leotard or bench press until you're sweaty. Get outside and go for a walk. Breathing in fresh air has a way of clearing the cobwebs out of your mind while giving your body some much needed cardio.

Redirect

Everyone needs a mindless activity to zone out with. Some like to knit. Others, like me, play Two Dots to unwind. Whatever it is, spend a few minutes each day indulging in a mindless something (key word: few minutes, not hours on end).

Meditate

The Bible advocates being still and knowing that God is God. How are you going to do that if you're running around like a decapitated chicken? Grab a verse and think on it, word by word.

Whenever you find yourself in a busy season, make sure to add these five self-care tips in to your schedule.