Monday, September 7, 2020

Ten Tips for Writing During Stressful Times by Kimberly Rose Johnson

 

Kimberly Rose Johnson
Anyone else feel like creativity takes a backseat to stress sometimes? Fellow Mountain Brook Ink author Kimberly Rose Johnson is here today to share her strategies for writing, even when she's stressed. Read on! ~ Annette


I think we can all agree that writing during times of stress or uncertainty can be challenging. Yet we have deadlines and can’t stop creating content. So what do we do?

How do we create when we are distracted or unable to focus?

The following are strategies I’ve used to effectively combat lack of focus and stress.


• Turn off the TV and don’t read the news.

• Eat healthy food. It’s scientifically proven that our mood can be affected by the food we eat.

• Exercise regularly. I enjoy my stationary bike as well as walking.

• Watch movies and read books. These allow me to relax and clear my head. While reading, my mind often wanders and suddenly I have clarity with my own writing.

• Participate in an enjoyable activity. This will promote relaxation and unlock those creative juices.

• Do something nice for someone else.

• Think positive thoughts rather than focusing on the negative.

• Keep a regular sleep schedule. A rested mind is able to deal with the stress of life better.

• Find a routine and stick to it.

Tips for writing during stressful times. #amwriting @kimberlyrosejoh

Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in the Lord. Are there any other control freaks out there besides me? This can be a tough verse to follow; yet I do trust Him. I have to remind myself daily to release control to Him.

Because I trust the Lord, I am able to give him the reins, but it takes a conscious effort on my part since trust in general does not come naturally for me. The key to writing during times of stress is to find effective ways to relax and free your mind to create, then write with God.

Do you have any other tips that have helped you write during times of stress?

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The Sleuth's Surprise
Mary Daley has been the sheriff of Tipton County for more than two decades, but someone wants her job. When it seems circumstances can’t get more complicated, a murder happens on her watch. Had she been the intended victim?

Deputy Chief Lyle Griffin only wants Mary to be happy, but when he asks her if she’d consider retiring, it sets off a string of events and emotions that muddy their friendship.

Nancy Daley-Malone can’t believe anyone would run for sheriff against her mom. She is onboard to help run the best campaign Tipton County has ever seen until the sheriff’s opponent is murdered and Nancy’s husband joins the race. On top of that, it appears someone is out to kill her mother as well.

Can Nancy, along with the sheriff’s department, find the murderer before it’s too late? Will Lyle and Mary be able to admit their feelings for one another or will the status quo remain?


 

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Award-winning author Kimberly Rose Johnson married her college sweetheart and lives in the Pacific Northwest. From a young child Kimberly has been an avid reader. That love of reading fostered a creative mind and led to her passion for writing.

Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington, and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. You can sign up for Kimberly's newsletter via her website at: https://kimberlyrjohnson.com/ Twitter: @kimberlyrosejoh