How Better Mental Health & Self-Awareness Got Me Back On Track

When it comes to creative writing dreams, or goals as it's likely better put, I don't think there's enough said about how mental health can play a part in our own success. Lately, my own mental health took somewhat of a dive. Although not dramatically, mind you, it was enough to make me realize I needed to do something about it. I hadn't written in months, actually. 

Kicking off May, I began by making a list of all the things that actually helped my mental health, from the minor things like taking my vitamins regularly to major ones like keeping a gratitude journal. Somehow, becoming more aware of what helped me, instead of focusing on what didn't, made a big difference. 

Then I began to notice something that may sound obvious, but wasn't obvious to me until I started tracking it. On the days I made an effort to exercise (and yes, I know it's something I should be doing daily, no matter what), I also made an effort to write. Maybe it was really habit stacking at its best. I'd do my exercise routine, then follow up with a brief writing session.

And it's working. So far, I've made progress on a lengthy short story I've neglected for months.

These days, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. When I'm struggling like that, creative writing takes a back seat. But this month, I wanted to get back on track and feel good enough to focus on my writing goals again. 

If you aren't really feeling emotionally hot these days, don't beat yourself up for writing taking a back seat. Put your mental health first. Then slowly, when you can, reintroduce your writing goals. I think pushing yourself when you aren't doing well can do more harm than good. Accept where you are at. Then, when you can, find out ways you can bring your writing back in a low-pressure, gee-I-actually-enjoy-this-again kind of way. 

Nicole Pyles is a writer hoping to get her creative self back in action again. Check out her writing blog for updates at https://worldofmyimagination.com. Or say hi on threads at @BeingTheWriter.