A lot of writing tips say that you should “force yourself to write, even when you think you can’t.”
I personally have always interpreted this to mean that I should write even when I don’t feel like it, but recently that I started thinking about the difference between “can’t” and “I don’t wanna.”
And I’ve come to realize that this difference is an important one.
When I can’t write, something is wrong. I could be mentally or emotionally off that day, I could have homework that is stressing me to the point that I can’t focus on the story, etc, etc.
In these sorts of situations, I am nearly incapable of writing. I always could,of course, but it would probably be bad writing. I would end up more frustrated than I was when I started, and that’s not something I want out of my writing. These are the days when I can’t write, so I don’t.
But then there are other days when I still don’t write, but nothing is wrong. I’m having a better day mentally/emotionally, I’m on top of homework, etc. These are days when I usually get sucked into the void of YouTube, or I play games on my phone for hours, or I watch TV. On these days, I never get around to writing because what I’m doing in that moment is easier than diving into plot and characters again.
And those are the days that I end up regretting the most. Because those videos are always going to be there, those games aren’t going anywhere. The writing that I could have gotten done? That stuff is less permanent.
I guess the bottom line here is this: Recognize the differences between the days that you can’t write and the days where you just don’t want to, and then act accordingly.
If you’re having a day where you can’t write? Take a break. It’s okay to have those days. You’re still a writer, you’re just not at your A-game today. That’s all right. You’ll get back to it.
But if you’re just putting it off because you don’t want to? Stop scrolling through Tumblr and go write, silly!
Tips to stay healthy for people struggling with eating disorders and or body dysmorphia (side note: I know that this won’t be very easy, just remember to take your time and try not to be too hard on yourself)
1. Stay hydrated, remember to drink plenty of fluids/water
2. If you have a hard time eating daily meals, when you do eat try to eat foods that are higher in protein and or are nutritious (for example protein bars, kale, dark greens, avocados, apples, blueberries, bananas, etc) to stay healthy, and to avoid malnourishment
3. Try to not yourself compare yourself to others
4. Try saying three positive affirmations every day (for example “I am enough” “I am vaild” “I am strong” and “I am beautiful”
4. Remember that you are not alone, and if you ever need help or someone to talk to don’t hesitate to reach out to someone you can trust. (Therapy is highly recommended)
5. If you begin to feel light headed, hunger pains, etc please try to eat something (preferably something higher in protein and nutritious) even if it’s small
6. If your workouts are in the red zone try to not work out longer than recommended below to avoid possible injury
7. Remember that when it comes to losing weight it’s a lot more complicated then simply having a high metabolism, eating healthy, and working out. Everyone is different, everyone has different genes, and some people are genetically predisposed to have certain things
8. Write down a list containing at least 4 things you like about yourself when ever you feel upset or insecure
9. You don’t have to have a flat stomach to be beautiful. Having a uterus can make your stomach appear to not be as flat as it really is.
10. Make sure to get plenty of sleep
11. Do something positive that makes you happy at least once a day
12. When you get positive compliments write them down and read them when you are feeling upset or insecure
13. Everyday try to have at least one reasonable and realistic thing you want to do or achieve by the end of the day even if it’s small (For example, today I want to clean my room some)
14. Remember that eds and body dysmorphia isn’t a girl thing, anyone can experience and struggle with it. And experiencing it doesn’t make you any less valid in your gender identity
15. As tempting as it may be, try to limit your time on the scale as much as you can
16. If you make any changes to your appearance do it because that’s what YOU want, remember the only one that needs to approve of the way you look and the only one whose opinion matters is your own
17. Wear warm clothes to keep you from getting too cold
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