Outtakes 177

Taking a Break

By Cait Collins

Normally I’m very careful with my holiday social schedule, but this year things got out of hand. With my expanded work hours at my job and social commitments, I found myself coming home, sitting down on the couch and falling asleep. No matter how hard I tried, I could not stay awake long enough to write. I’m so thankful I have a two week vacation.

I’ve decided to take the first week off to recharge. There’s something refreshing about sleeping late, catching up on my reading, and reviewing the returned manuscripts from my beta readers. I have no schedule, no got-to-get-this done task list. I work at my pace, and when my brain starts shutting down, I take a nap. Next week I’ll do the final edits on my manuscript, put the finishing touches on my query letter, and email the letter to an agent.

Don’t get me wrong, I do believe in writing something every day. However, there are times when restoring our physical well being is more important. No one works at peak level when the body is exhausted. So during this busy season, enjoy time with friends and family, but remember to take care of yourself.

May your holiday be happy and your new year successful.