Strategies for Managing Work and Literary Pursuits

In an exclusive guest post, Phoebe Quinn, a writer of fiction with a collection of short stories set for release in 2016, shares her advice on navigating a difficult work situation. As a writer who has had a job she disliked, Quinn offers practical tips to help you cope with a less than ideal work environment.

1. Start Job Search Early

Quinn advises starting the job search three months before the deadline to give yourself ample time to find a new opportunity. This proactive approach can help alleviate the stress of a pending departure and provide a sense of control over your future.

2. Set a Deadline

Having a clear end date in mind can help you focus on the present and work towards a brighter future. Quinn suggests setting a deadline for leaving your current job, giving you a tangible goal to strive for.

3. Keep a Writing Habit

Even if your job is difficult or frustrating, it's essential to maintain a writing habit. Quinn recommends using your work experiences as inspiration for creative writing, allowing you to transform your negative feelings into something productive.

4. Get Up Early

To have time for yourself before work, Quinn advises getting up earlier. This extra time can provide a valuable opportunity for self-care and reflection, helping you approach your day with a clearer mind.

5. Take a Walk

When possible, Quinn suggests walking on your way home to clear your head. This simple act can help reduce stress and provide a moment of respite from the workday.

6. Change Your Clothes

Changing out of work clothes can help change your frame of mind, signalling the end of your workday and the beginning of your personal time.

7. Take a Minute to Breathe

When feeling overwhelmed at work, Quinn recommends taking one minute to focus on your breathing. This mindfulness practice can help you regain control and maintain perspective in challenging situations.

8. Have Something to Look Forward To

Having a day out with friends or a weekend set aside for writing can provide something to look forward to, helping you stay motivated during difficult times.

9. Get Extra Training or Read

To improve your skill set for future job opportunities, Quinn recommends taking on extra training or reading. This proactive approach can help you feel more in control of your career trajectory and increase your chances of finding a more fulfilling job.

10. Use Your 'I'm Home' Ritual

Quinn's 'I'm home' ritual includes dumping keys and bag in the kitchen, going through the post, leaving their phone in the kitchen for at least half an hour, and opening up their laptop. Sometimes it includes tea. This routine helps her transition from work to home life, providing a sense of normalcy amidst a challenging work environment.

Quinn's current job, which involves working 48-hour weeks and delivering therapies to adults with serious mental health problems, has been one of the worst she's had. Despite this, she has only enjoyed one job. However, she encourages thinking ahead about what one wants to do next in their career and taking steps towards that goal.

Stephen King, another renowned writer, published a collection of short stories titled Bazaar of Bad Dreams in 2016. Like King, Quinn demonstrates that it's possible to find inspiration and creativity even in the most challenging work environments.