Eight Warning Signs that You’re Suffering from Writer’s Exhaustion

A couple of months back I found myself under the gun, facing multiple deadlines. Something rather frightening happened as I fought to wrap up that final book on time. I struggled to think clearly and my fingers fumbled across the keyboard as if they had a mind of their own. I couldn’t manage a single sentence without a typo. Or two. Or three. 

My problem? Exhaustion. My body was simply worn out and my mind and fingers refused to cooperate. The solution? Rest. Uninterrupted sleep. 

So, what about you? If you’re facing deadlines (either self-imposed or editor-induced), you’re probably a prime candidate for writer’s exhaustion. Let’s take a look at the symptoms and discuss some workable solutions. 

Symptoms of Exhaustion

1. Waking up tired: If you’re like most writers, ideas come at the oddest times (say, in the middle of the night). No one likes to miss an opportunity, but spending too many late-night hours writing (when you should be sleeping) will catch up with you in short order. Try to arrange your schedule so that you still get at least seven hours of sleep a night. Squeeze the writing in, sure, but not at the expense of your rest. 
2. Headaches and stiff joints: When you sit too long at the computer, your joints pay the price. You end up with neck strain, wrist problems and even shoulder/elbow issues. The solution? Every hour on the hour, rise and do some sort of stretching/exercise. If you’re able, do a daily workout that includes a lot of stretching, particularly of the neck, arms and back.  
3. Foggy thoughts/inability to think clearly: If you’re struggling to compose clear, concise thoughts, it’s time for a break. Don’t try to press through. Instead, step away from the computer. Rest your mind. Take a catnap. Our thoughts are much clearer when we’re rested. 
4. Poor eating habits/lack of exercise: Here’s a sure sign that you’re overworked! Take a look at what you’re eating, where you’re eating and when you’re eating. If you really want to stay on top of things in this area, create a menu in advance and stick to it. 
5. Dehydration/Urinary tract issues: Writers have a tendency to work against the clock, overlooking simple things, like staying hydrated. Keep a large bottle of water next to your computer at all times. If you’re a tea or soda drinker, keep it at a minimum. Up your water intake and guard how much caffeine you’re consuming. 
6. Eye strain: Is the screen blurry? Are words running together? Turn off the computer and close your eyes for at least ten minutes. Eye strain will only get worse without rest. 
7. Undercurrent of frustration: Do you find yourself easily frustrated? Feeling angry, but you don’t know why? This is a sure sign that you’re overworked. Do your best to balance your personal life against your work. Don’t neglect your family and friends. Keeping things in balance will lessen feelings of frustration and will keep you from feeling like your only purpose in life is to work, work, work. 
8. Overlooked bills/housework/appointments: If you forgot to pay this month’s electric bill or neglected a doctor’s appointment, it’s likely you’re overworked. Put yourself on a schedule. Add bills to your computer’s calendar and make sure you’re flagged when they’re due. Same with appointments and meetings. 

There you have it! Eight ways to know when you’re suffering from writer’s exhaustion. Perhaps you can think of other ways. If so, feel free to leave comments so that we can discuss them in future articles.