It's okay to take a day off from being productive.

Without it, you might end up with writer's block and burnout.

I used to be that person, religiously tracking my word count, setting unrealistic daily goals, and beating myself up when I didn't meet them. Spoiler alert: It's a fantastic recipe for writer's block and burnout. 

The Myth of the "Productive" Writer 

Here's something they don't tell you in those "Quit Your Job to Write Full-Time!" webinars: Sometimes, the most valuable thing you can do for your writing is absolutely nothing. Shocking, I know. 

But think about it: When was the last time you had a brilliant idea while staring at a blank Google Doc, willing the words to appear? Never, right? It's always in the shower, on a walk, or while mindlessly stirring your coffee for the fifteenth time. 

Yet we feel guilty for these moments of "unproductivity." We've internalised the idea that if we're not actively typing, we're not really working.  

It's time to unlearn that corporate BS. 

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Permission to Do Nothing (Yes, Really) 

So here's your first step in transitioning: Schedule time to do nothing. I'm serious. Block off an hour in your calendar labeled "Absolutely Nothing." 

No brainstorming. No networking. Not even Notes. No "productive" procrastination like reorganizing your Notion workspace for the millionth time. Just... exist. 

You're a writer now, and writers need space for their minds to wander. 

Here's your game plan: 

1. Your worth as a writer isn't measured in words per minute. Sometimes, staring out the window is the work. Trust the process. 

2. Some days, the words will flow. Other days, it's like squeezing blood from a stone. Both are normal. Both are necessary. 

3. Give yourself permission to go deep, even if it means posting less frequently. 

4. Just because you can work anytime doesn't mean you should. Set office hours for yourself and stick to them. 

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Your homework: 

1. Schedule that "do nothing" time. Seriously. Do it now. I'll wait. 

2. Write down three ways your current definition of "productivity". How can you reframe them? 

3. Share a small win in the comments. Let's celebrate each other's journeys, no matter how meandering they might seem. 

Until next week, may your coffee be strong, your impostor syndrome be weak, and your writing be delightfully, rebelliously unproductive.