Happy Almost Spring!
Resources: I recently updated my Resources for Teen (and Tween) Writers page. (And there's some good stuff there for adult writers, too.)
Productivity for Writers: Taking Time Off
Sometimes the best way to remain productive is to step away from a project. A break from a novel can be spent writing a short article, an essay, or a poem. And a mini-vacation can also be a way to refill the creative well.
According to Psychology Today, "Many argue that some of the most important time to develop creativity and help spark innovation does not occur at work. It occurs in the hours and days we are away from our jobs."
According to Psychology Today, "Many argue that some of the most important time to develop creativity and help spark innovation does not occur at work. It occurs in the hours and days we are away from our jobs."
Spending time in a new location, having unique experiences, and unplugging are all ways to increase creativity. I find it helpful to wrap up small, outstanding projects before taking any time off. Clearing the decks helps make time away more enjoyable. Motivational speaker Zig Ziglar commented, "Isn't it amazing how much stuff we get done the day before vacation?" and I find that to be true. :)
To fully take advantage of time away from work, some tips from author Brie Schmidt include to wake up early (ugh), avoid filling the time with chores (yay!), and plan your upcoming (or post-vacation) week in advance. (Laura Vanderkam recommends Fridays in general for this weekly planning. Here's why.)
Whether you're taking a weekend off or a longer break, I highly recommend leaving yourself good project notes. Then, when you return to your creative work with renewed energy, you can easily dive back in.
To fully take advantage of time away from work, some tips from author Brie Schmidt include to wake up early (ugh), avoid filling the time with chores (yay!), and plan your upcoming (or post-vacation) week in advance. (Laura Vanderkam recommends Fridays in general for this weekly planning. Here's why.)
Whether you're taking a weekend off or a longer break, I highly recommend leaving yourself good project notes. Then, when you return to your creative work with renewed energy, you can easily dive back in.
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