Why I’m Taking the Rest of the Year ‘Off’

Summary

The author is taking the rest of the year off from writing to rejuvenate, bank up articles, research, and spend quality time with family during the holidays.

Abstract

The author of the article expresses the intention to step back from writing for the remainder of the year due to a combination of factors, including the impact of Covid-19 on motivation, increased university workload, and the approaching holiday season. The plan is to write without the pressure of deadlines, stockpile articles for future posting, conduct thorough research on topics, and enjoy a well-deserved break over Christmas to improve mental health and prepare for a fresh start in 2021. The author acknowledges the challenges of 2020 and looks forward to the next two months of respite and preparation for the new year.

Opinions

The author began 2020 with ambitious goals but was derailed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
There is a personal belief that writing should be enjoyable and not a mere task to complete.
The author feels pressured to maintain regular posting schedules amid increased university commitments.
Taking time off is seen as essential for mental health and creativity, particularly during the holiday season.
The author values being well-prepared and informed on topics before writing, ensuring content quality and relevance.
There is an anticipation of a better year ahead, with the hope of leaving the challenges of 2020 behind.

Why I’m Taking the Rest of the Year ‘Off’

Photo by Radu Florin on Unsplash

Let’s face it, it’s been a long old year. Personally, I started it with the best of intentions. I planned to be super productive, get loads done and really just ace 2020. However, as you know, Covid had other plans. At first, I didn’t let it stop me and I started writing, but now, in November, my motivation levels are at an all time low. That’s why this will be my last article post of 2020. Here’s what I hope to get done during my time off:

1. Bank up my articles

Recently, I have started to feel the pressure to get regular posts out. With the increased workload from university, I have started to fall behind on my weekly and monthly targets. For me, writing shouldn’t be a box-ticking exercise — that’s why, over the coming months, I plan to simply write for the enjoyment of it. Then, when it comes to January 2021, I will be able to continue writing for the love of it, knowing that I will have a collection of articles banked up to save me from caving under the pressure.

Photo by Nick Morrison on Unsplash

2. Do some research and get some ideas

It’s important for me to know what i’m writing about; not only do I find it useful to research my topic in advance, but also I like to make a plan of key points to include. I find that this gives me a structure to work to, meaning I am less likely to stray off topic as I would tend to do normally.

3. Take a break

Christmas is coming, we can’t ignore that. The holidays are an important time for us to catch up with family and zone out from all things work. Even a short break of 1–2 weeks is really beneficial for our mental health and recharges our brains, ready to start work again in the new year.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Overall, I would say I’m looking forward to the next two months. 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone and, personally, I can’t wait to put it behind me. I hope you all have a brilliant thanksgiving (for those in the States) and a very happy and merry Christmas period.