Homework 2026 Week 3

Let's dive into our next round of homework. It's time to look at our mental and physical health. We want to make sure that we don't want burn out or injure ourselves.

Remember you don't have to do all the homework to earn the badge at the end of the article.

Self Care List

We're going separate this into mental and phsyical self care lists. Make a list for each one. Depending on what works for you, some of these could also be a reward or two that you chose in week 1. Below are some ideas for each one.

Mental Self Care Ideas

Have a clear limit of when you write. If you're working on it all day, set alarms to take breaks.
Have your writing area and sleep area separate. This will help your brain shut down at night to sleep.
If you're in draft mode, remind yourself that it's not going to be perfect. Give yourself permission to write a shitty draft. Just remember that you can clean it up and make it better when you edit, but you can't edit a blank page.
Talk to people. Talking about your writing can help you get unstuck. But at the same time, talking to non-writing friends about a non-writing topics is a good idea. It gives your brain a break and a chance to recharge.
Celebrate. This one is tied in with the the rewards you set in week 1. The dopamine rush can help you keep going.

Physical Self Care Ideas

Take eye breaks regularly. It's suggested to look away from your screen every 20 minutes to focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Also take a break every couple of hours to take a walk.
Stretch. Shoulders, neck, back, fingers and wrists.
Stay hydrated. Have water with you. Sparkling and flavored water count.
Take a walk. Daily is a good thing but do what you can. Pay attention to your health and the weather.
If you can't go for a walk outside, do some kind of exercise inside. Chair Yoga for example.

Have your list ready and handy for when you need the reminder. Make sure you put on it what you're capable of doing. The point is to keep you healthy, not hurt yourself.

Do you have a self care plushie?

PDF Version for you to download

Canva Sheet for you to make a copy

Accountability/Support Buddy

Having an accountability buddy and/or a support buddy can be useful. Decide with your buddy or buddies how often you're checking in with each other. This doesn't have to be an every day thing.

For the support part, you may want to ask when would be a good time for you to reach out to them if you need help or encouragement, or ask how long it will take them to get back to you if you unexpectedly reach out to them.

Knowing this will help reduce your stress levels, allowing you to focus on what you want to get done.

PDF Version for you to download

Canva Sheet for you to make a copy

Completion Badge

[img:7974522]