For many, this past year has been one of unexpected crisis, and not for a couple weeks or months. Ongoing issues have caused many to feel (rightfully so) lost, helpless, confused, scared, and all manner of terms and phrases that are as far away from productive, safe, and healthy as could be – and questioning when we might return to better states of being.

We don’t have the answers for that, nor are we professional counselors (though we do recommend seeking help if you’re feeling like things are ‘too much’ on any front – even if you’re feeling ‘fine’ it can be beneficial to chat to someone on a regular basis to ensure you continue that journey and know how to recognize and address ‘not fine’ in the future). However, we do want to suggest a few ways to make, and more importantly keep, goals during times of crisis.

Set manageable goals – and be open to pivoting. Even during times of struggle we can have grand ideas of how much we can accomplish during a given amount of time. Often, those estimations are beyond what’s realistically possible. And sometimes we get hard on ourselves for not meeting those unrealistic expectations and then just give up altogether. In times of crisis, the internal pressure and emotional load of this is increased. So do what you need to do to emotionally take a step back from your project(s), assess what you have the bandwidth to do, and reevaluate/reprioritize your goals. And do this as often as needed.

Find someone you trust to be accountable to – who isn’t a close friend/family member. Accountability is great and can help reinforce deadlines we set for ourselves. However, tempting as it is to request accountability from those closest to you, sometimes you need folks more objective about your life to hold that accountability. While you want someone who understands there are hurdles and struggles in your life (and everyone’s lives), your bestie might be more inclined to soften on a deadline than someone who can objectively ask: did you drop the ball on this because life is crazy, or because you’re afraid to do it? That kind of objectivity (and occasional ‘tough love’ examinations of what’s really blocking you) may not be something you want to have straining relationships you need/rely on for emotional support in other areas of life. Writing groups, mentor/mentee relationships, career coaches, even social media buddies can be great resources for accountability outside of your ‘inner circle.’

Prioritize your craft as part of putting your wellbeing first. When we look as refocusing on our personal health and wellbeing, we often think of the physical, the emotional, and the mental. Are we eating right? Getting enough sleep? Staying physically active? Exploring our spiritual needs? Addressing our mental/emotional issues in a healthy way? We tend to drift off when extending to things like: What brings my life joy? What invigorates me? What uses of my time do I find most fulfilling? What do I want my life to look like in five years (or even six months)? Yet those questions should drive our day to day actions as much as making sure we take our vitamins/meds and get enough water (have you had enough today? Go drink some water now.).
Even in times of crisis, if you’re not prioritizing your own wellbeing, it’s difficult to not only ensure you make it through the experience in as healthy a way as possible, it’s more difficult to care for others who may be sharing that trauma. Even if you’re acknowledging these questions and setting a deadline to address them in depth at a later time, at least remember how valuable they are, and how who you want to be is just as important as who you are in this moment.

Reward yourself, as frequently as possible. Positive reinforcement is particularly needed during difficult times. Even someone as simple as taking a long, hot shower after completing your word count goal for the day can be a reward. Small food/drink rewards can also be good. Even a walk by yourself to get some air and clear your mind can be a reward. And when those larger milestones happen, don’t be shy about sharing them!

Finally, but possibly most important: BE KIND TO YOURSELF. Any stumbles along the way are just that. They are not a reflection of your self-worth or creative potential. Remember that you are making progressive strides during a tumultuous and uncertain time. Even if you have to step away it doesn’t make you any less dedicated, nor any less of a creator. The world needs your stories, but it needs you in a healthy place to be able to express them, too!

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