A Writer's Life: How to Handle Stress

How to Handle Writing Stress

As writers, we've all been there--that manuscript that just won't finish itself but is due at midnight, and you're about 20,000 words short. Or maybe you're neck-deep in edits, and you just can't figure out why those plot holes won't fix themselves. Whatever the case, we writers tend to get really worked up, and sometimes it's downright maddening! So here are a few tips, sites, and images to help you keep your cool and inspire your inner writer.

1. Stress Reduction Kit

This one is just plain hilarious. Now I'm not condoning violence (especially of the self-inflicted variety), but sometimes you just have those days where your protagonist won't cooperate and you can't get your thoughts under control. 

2. Relaxation Techniques for Stress Relief 

These are awesome! This article hits the nail on the head when it says that stress is necessary for creativity. But when it becomes overwhelming these techniques come in handy:

  http://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/relaxation-techniques-for-stress-relief.htm

3. How to Write While Under Stress 

Another great set of steps! These are from wikihow, and they take you through writing while under stress. Not a bad process, and you'll get a lot accomplished! 

http://www.wikihow.com/Write-While-Under-Stress

4. And, Finally, a Little Motivation 

Here is an article with some great motivational tips! Any time you're under a lot of stress or can't seem to get past your own writer's block, just remember: stress is hard, but when you finish whatever you're working on, it will all have been worth it! 

http://writetodone.com/motivation-tips-that-actually-work-6-sure-fire-ways-to-get-writing-and-keep-writing/

I hope those helped! Here's to pushing forward and writing a little every day, no matter what life throws at you. Remember- when life gives you lemons, write a book about it.