These last two weeks have been taxing on me emotionally. This week, though, I started to feel it: the Burnout. When this thing would happen and I would just stare at my screen:
It got to the point where I would just feel so exhausted and my mind refused to think up words. So I told myself it's okay to step away and give yourself a mental break. And that's what I'm currently doing. This weekend is when I'll dive back in to get back on track with my schedule. In the meantime, I found ways to take care of myself while taking a break from writing. Here are some suggestions on what to do when you're feeling that impending big, bad Burnout.
Binge-Watch a Show
For me, I've been binge-watching the History Channel show, Vikings. Although there are historical inaccuracies, I still find it highly entertaining and just so intriguing. I'm always dying to find out what happens next. And who knows? Maybe I'll come up with a story idea from the show based on the fierce shield-maiden Lagertha.
Light Some Candles, Drop a Bath Bomb and Enjoy a Chapter or Two
One of my favorite remedies. I get my bath bombs from Crystal Bar Soap and their products are incredible. They smell wonderful without being overwhelming and they have healing crystals inside. I wouldn't call myself a crystal hoarder or anything, but there's something soothing about the stones. As for candles, I get them from A Court of Candles. I'm obsessed with their bookish products and their amazing quality. And if you have a bath tray, set your book on there with a glass of wine if you choose, and just lose yourself in this relaxing method.
Brew Some Tea (or Coffee) with Your Favorite Read in Hand
I'm both a tea and coffee drinker. But lately, it's been tea. I've been finding myself drinking coffee when I'm truly exhausted and need to wake up. But to relax, I brew loose leaf teas from A Court of Candles. They have a variety of uniquely flavored teas. The teas I get are called High Lady (from the A Court of Thorns and Roses series) and Salazar Slytherin (because I'm a proud Slytherin). With my tea in hand, I go sit out on my porch (if the pollen count is kind that day) or on my couch with whatever book I'm reading at the moment (which in this case is a reread of ACOTAR for the... yeah I lost count).
Go for a Walk and Listen to Music, a Podcast, an Audiobook or Just Silence
Such a relaxing form of exercise. Just to go for a walk in the great outdoors, putting on headphones, listening to the soothing sounds of heavy metal, or a murder podcast, or a thriller/horror audiobook. Or just the silence. All of it is great way to get your mind off the cause of your impending burnout.
All of these are great ways to ride out the burnout if you're in one, or if you're feeling one coming. What are some methods you use? Comment below!