
DW Johnson
I Sprinted a Marathon
Updated: Dec 6, 2019
Writing, like most things in life, is a marathon, not a sprint.
I knew that, buried somewhere deep in my mind. But it didn’t occur to me until I was (am) writing my sixth novel. Would it have made a difference?
Oh, I think it would have. But I was so excited to write all the stories that had been rattling around in my head for decades I paid no attention to a steady pace. Instead, I blasted through five novels in two years.
And that has left me here. Exhausted. Not exhausted of ideas. I have 143 book outlines left to write. Enough writing to get me to the ripe old age of 93. I’m not even tired of writing (as this blog shows) I am simply tired.
Do you get that way? Tired I mean. If you said no, then you are truly blessed. Or your kidding yourself. But if your one of the 99% who said yes then what you need is rejuvenation.
What is it that lifts your spirit? What recharges your batteries? Is it playing golf? (ich) Taking a walk-through nature. Fishing, crafts, art, the zoo. There must be something that soothes your soul. That helps you energize (no not a sports drink).
Not coming up with anything. I have a few ideas for you.
Go to church. Serve somebody.Lose yourself by reading. (I think as a writer I’m required to list this)Forgive someone.Play with a pooch or cuddle a kitten. (Studies have shown it lowers your blood pressure)Breathe the clean air of nature. (British study says five minutes in nature can help) Scope out new scenery. (A new retail shop, a park, maybe a new city) Immerse yourself in music you love. Regularly do good deeds while expecting nothing in return. Indulge in artwork. (again, had to list it) Clean/de-clutter. Feel the spray of a waterfall or crashing surf. (Negative air ions boost mood) Inhale an aroma you love for 30 seconds.Go fishing. (My favorite) I’m sure you can think of many more. So, when life has you “sprinting” remember it’s a marathon and take time to slow down to the things around you.