Overcoming Writer’s Burnout: 5 Essential Tips to Reignite Your Creative Spark

Everyone has heard of writer's block--that pesky thing that seems to stall our creative juices. The elusive muse we wait for, but never comes. There are some people who say writer's block is nonsense. That it's nothing more than an excuse for writers not to write. Then there are others who say that it's a serious obstacle all writers face at one time.

Well, this post isn't about writer's block. It's about burnout.

Is there a difference, you ask?

YES!

On the simplest level, writer's block is a lack of ideas. Burnout is when an author has an abundance of ideas, but no desire to put those thoughts on paper. Okay, okay, so some people might argue that it's not burnout, but rather laziness, no ambition, procrastination, lack of motivation... And I suppose on some levels those are all accurate descriptions, too.

However, I'm at a point where I feel burnt out. In the past seven months, I've written four novellas, a full-length YA novel, and finished a full-length novel I'd been working on for almost two years. I feel like an addict coming off a high. I still have tons of ideas floating around in my head. I have half-finished, almost started projects that are begging to be finished. I just don't have the motivation/desire/ambition to do anything right now.

Burnout isn't just about writing. It can affect anyone in any profession or walk of life. It's that feeling of being utterly drained, mentally and physically, to the point where even the tasks you once loved seem insurmountable. For writers, this often means that the passion and drive that once fueled our work has dwindled, leaving behind a sense of emptiness and fatigue. But it's important to remember that burnout is not a permanent state. It's something that can be managed and overcome with the right strategies and mindset.

So, how do I get past this? Here are a few things I've been doing:

RELAX: I feel as though I need to "reset," so to speak. I've taken a few days off from writing and have spent my time doing things I find relaxing, such as taking a bubble bath, napping, and taking a walk. Relaxation is key because it helps to calm the mind and body, providing a necessary break from the constant pressure of producing work. It's about giving yourself permission to step back and breathe, to recharge your creative batteries without guilt.

READ: Diving into a good book is not only relaxing, but I find it helps to give me the inspiration I need to want to finish my own book. Reading can rekindle that spark of creativity by exposing you to different styles, ideas, and worlds. It reminds you of the joy of storytelling and can reignite your passion for writing. Plus, it's a great way to learn and grow as a writer, even when you're not actively writing.

WRITE: That's right. Despite feeling burnt out, I still make myself write something every day. It might be a page or two of whatever project I'm working on, a blog post, emails to friends, journaling--it doesn't really matter as long as I'm writing something every day. This way, when I get my ambition back, I won't be rusty. Writing regularly, even in small doses, helps maintain the habit and keeps your skills sharp. It's about staying connected to the craft, even when your enthusiasm is low.

SET REALISTIC GOALS: One major contributor to burnout is setting unrealistic expectations for yourself. Break down your projects into smaller, more manageable tasks. Set daily or weekly goals that are achievable and celebrate those small victories. This approach not only makes the workload seem less daunting but also provides a sense of accomplishment that can boost your motivation.

SEEK SUPPORT: Sometimes, talking to fellow writers or friends who understand what you're going through can be incredibly helpful. They can offer advice, share their own experiences, and provide the encouragement you need. Joining a writing group or community can also give you a sense of belonging and support, making the journey through burnout less lonely.

GET A HOBBY: Engage in other forms of creativity that don't involve writing. Whether it's painting, drawing, playing music, or even cooking, these activities can help stimulate your creativity in different ways. They provide a break from writing while still allowing you to express yourself creatively.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEALTH: Physical health has a direct impact on mental health. Ensure you're eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. A healthy body supports a healthy mind, which in turn can help combat burnout. Simple activities like a walk in nature or a yoga session can do wonders for your overall well-being.

REMEMBER YOUR PURPOSE:  Remind yourself why you started writing in the first place. What drives your passion for storytelling? Reconnecting with your core motivation can reignite your desire to write. Reflect on your journey, the stories you've told, and the impact your writing has had on readers.

Whether it's writer's block or burnout, it's just a tiny speed bump that can be overcome. Remember, it's okay to take a step back and breathe. It's okay to relax, recharge, and refocus. By implementing these strategies and taking care of yourself, you'll find your way back to the joy of writing. The important thing is not to give up. Keep nurturing your creativity, stay patient with yourself, and trust that the passion will return.

What tips do you have to help overcome burnout?