We all lead stressful lives in one way or another. As an author there are many factors that can cause stress.  Writer’s block, fear of judgement from others, perfectionism which can lead to over-editing and lots of self doubt, the pressure of meeting deadlines, rejection which causes a lack of confidence and motivation, juggling too many projects, being responsible for marketing and promotion of your works, and possibly financial concerns as well.  Authors often question their own writing abilities and wonder whether their stories are good enough. It can all weigh heavy on your mind.

There are many sites online which can be of help to writers in every aspect. To support you and anyone really, I recently came across an article from the Mayo Clinic that I thought was interesting about stress management and how it can affect your health and well-being.

Are you a positive or a negative thinker? Positive thinking doesn’t mean that you ignore life’s less enjoyable situations. It just means that you approach unpleasantness in a more positive and productive way. You believe the best is going to happen, not the worst. The automatic thoughts that run through your head can be either positive or negative. If they are negative, your outlook on life is likely to be gloomy or cynical, which is certainly not a health benefit. You can learn to change these negative thoughts into more positive ones by creating new habits.

The following are a few ways in which to change your thinking and behave more positively.

First, identify areas in your life that need a change, whether it be at work, life changes, or a relationship. Focus on a few small areas and then approach them in a more positive light. You will eventually teach yourself to look at things differently.

Keep yourself in check during the day by periodically stopping to evaluate how you are thinking. Are you falling back into being negative or are you forcibly working on being positive?

Stay open to humor by smiling or laughing, even during times of difficulty. Laughter is a stress-reducing tool.

Aim for a healthy lifestyle that includes some kind of exercise to break up each day and help you manage stress. If you are sitting all day, take a break and go for a walk.  Look at something different than what you normally would. Sometimes just being out-of-doors will help you clear your mind.

Keep yourself surrounded by positive people who will support you in good times and bad. You need helpful advice and feedback. Keep your distance from negative people or situations.

Follow a simple rule – don’t say anything to yourself that you would not say to someone else. Be kind and encouraging to yourself. Don’t expect perfection, just do your best.  

Think about the things you are thankful for in your life and dwell on those things. There is always someone who has it harder than you.  Always be thankful for what you have.

You may not become an optimist overnight, but with practice you will become less critical of the world around you. When your state of mind is one of optimism, you are better able to handle stressful situations that come your way in a more constructive manner, and that will contribute to a much healthier and happier life.

Solitaire

www.solitaireparke.com