In a post on the Stage 32 blog, Rob McNeil offers advice on avoiding creative burnouts. “There was a time in which my output was off the charts,” he says. “Quite possibly unhealthy levels of writing. Of course, I write because I enjoy it. But, I had reached a certain point where my writing became laborious. It felt like a job. It should NEVER feel like a job.”
McNeil says we should avoid burnout at all costs. Even if other people think you shouldn’t stop for any reason, writing hiatuses are necessary for your mind, your creativity, and your long-term success. If you force yourself to sit down to write, your writing will feel forced. “We cannot allow this to happen,” McNeil says. “And it’s draining when it does.”
Sometimes, you have to work. You’ve made a commitment, you have a deadline. You need to earn an income. But in between your projects, when you have the chance, you should still take time to rest and recharge. This might mean taking a vacation but rest can also mean simply going about daily activities. Watch tv, read, finish some research, clean your garage. Do something that doesn’t directly involve your creative project. McNeil also suggests:
- Meditate. “Meditation is probably the single most tranquil way of alleviating your burnout or, ideally, preventing it entirely,” he says. “Yoga is another serene way to get away and clear your mind.”
- Go natural. If you live in an urban setting, going to the beach, lake, forest, or mountains are a great way to recharge. Even finding a bench in a city park can feel rejuvenating.
- Interact. When we’re focused on a project, we often neglect our relationships in favor of spending more time at our desks. Take a break with friends and family, or just get out of your house for a solo jaunt. Be social if that’s your thing, but if it’s not, go to the library or coffee shop and be around people.
