Three Questions Every Writer Must Ask During a Project

I have a confession to make. I’m a workaholic. Undeniably, certifiably, unmistakably so. And my reasoning is if the momentum has already picked up traction, then why stop?
But the truth is that sometimes I take it too far. I get so caught up in making deadlines and finishing what I’ve started and getting items checked off the never-ending to-do list that my body no longer registers fatigue.

If you can relate, we both need to stop in the middle of our project to take time to think on these three questions and answer them truthfully. (If you’ve been on the opposite end of productivity, you can continue on your merry way. Return when needed. ;])

3 to 1

1. Am I producing, working, and creating nonstop in order to get on the same level as other writers?
2. Is my writing causing me to ignore other key areas of my life—health, relationships, self-love, spirituality?
3. Does my work feel hollow and detached?

If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, this is your time to step back. To rest. Perhaps we’re telling ourselves that other writers are ahead, and we have catching up to do. Or that we’re improving our craft by practicing just a few more minutes (hours?) a day. Or that our goal is to become the best of the best.

Although those qualities are admirable, we also must listen to our bodies. If good intentions are turning our eating habits sour, we must rest. If improving ourselves means sacrificing quality time with loved ones, we must rest. If our creations no longer add meaning and enrichment to our lives, we must rest.

A car will run out of gas and battery power at some point. In order to continue moving forward and getting our businesses in the right direction, we need to turn off the engine and fuel up with energy to gear us for the next 1,000 miles.

Turn off the device. Make a cup of tea or coffee. Read a book (without the intentions of writing an article). Snack on a cupcake. Silence the alarm clock. Close your eyes. And truly clear out time to embrace that lovely four-letter word—rest.