How to Remain Healthy as a Freelance Writer

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By Julie McElroy
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Don't let this happen to you!

If you are a freelance writer, sometimes good habits can fall to the wayside. Here are some steps to remain healthy as a freelance writer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

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Keep your body healthy. Make time to exercise. Exercise is important on so many levels. If you are sedentary all day, you will notice the way it makes you feel. Schedule time in your day to exercise. This is an important way to remain healthy as you write.
Step 2

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Keep your diet healthy. Avoid eating unhealthy snacks. As a freelance writer, you spend a lot of time in front of the computer. When a writer is in the zone, there is no time to stop and make a healthy meal/snack. Grabbing some chips or a donut is fast and easy. But, don't let this become a habit! Take the time to make a healthy meal even if you have to sit in front of the computer and eat it.
Step 3

Keep your spirit healthy. Do yoga or stretch. It is common for a writer to spend hours sitting at a table, in front of a desk, on the couch, etc. to write. After a while, your body will start to ache, especially your back and neck. Take 15-25 minutes stretching or even better, do a Yoga routine. Yoga can quiet your thoughts and help you relax.
Step 4

Keep your soul happy. Get out of the house. Step away from the computer and go for a walk. Go to the store, a friend's hose, a movie--just step away from writing for at least a couple hours a day. There is a whole other part of you with other interests. Don't neglect them. This is a healthy balance. Sunshine is a healthy option to sitting in the house all day.
Step 5

Keep your mind healthy. Get enough sleep. As a writer, it is hard sometimes to put the pencil or laptop down and go to bed. Hours can pass by as you try to get your thoughts down. But, lack of sleep can make you sluggish and thoughts may not come so easy. Go to bed at a decent hour or get up early. Dedicate 7-8 hours a night to sleep.
Step 6

Quality time.

Keep your relationships healthy. Spend time with loved ones. Sometimes as a freelance writer, you get wrapped up in your work and you may not realize it, but your kids, your spouse, your friends, neighbors, parents miss spending time with you. Go for a walk or a hike with your loved ones. Or just sit and talk--with the computer off and your pencil down!