Introduction

Before we get into it, I wanted to update you on the Enter Here anthology. For those who don’t know, author M. Stevenson and I are kickstarting to raise funds to pay 13 marginalized authors to write science fiction, fantasy, and horror stories on the theme of “a door opens.” We’re at 61% of our goal right now! It’s a great time to support. Submissions start June 1. 100% of the money goes to the authors and covering production costs.

Now. Onto the…

Burnout

Every writer’s dreaded word. For me, right now, burnout is coming from day job stuff. I might get laid off in a month or two because of the US president and his Tesla-dealing crony. It’s hard to feel fresh and productive when your livelihood is on the line.

According to the ICD-10, the world health organization’s diagnostic manual:

Check. Check. Check.

I haven’t written anything in two weeks. I feel like crying all the time. I’m exhausted af.

Breaks

Literally the only good solution for burnout I’ve discovered is to take a forced break. It’s not fun. I hate not writing. But I’ve tried to replace it with other hobbies that do make me happy, even if I only indulge in them in tiny amounts. I’m playing Baldur’s Gate. I’m crocheting. And I’m reading more.

It hasn’t been easy. I miss writing. I’m so close to finishing my fantasy novel. But every time I think about opening Scrivener I want to throw up.

So I’m being gentle with myself. I’m doing the obligations I have deadlines for, but no more. I’m spending time with family and friends. I’m sleeping.

And hopefully, I’ll find my way out of this soon.

Conclusion

No epic answers or solutions. If you want tips, check out my previous post on burnout and self-care. Today I just wanted to muse a little, and share with you what’s going on. Thanks for listening.