Having enough time is a subset of having enough energy. For many years I bemoaned lack of time as I set about writing alongside a day job and marketing that writing. Recently I have realised that lack of time is not the main driver — it is lack of energy.

My day job as a software consultant requires a lot of mental energy to create and test solutions, often with time pressure and competing priorities. My aging parents have required more of my practical support and their plight can be emotionally draining. A determination to keep writing, no matter what, also requires mental fortitude.

Recently I ran out of mental juice and have had to take a break from everything. As I dip my toe back in the creative waters it is important that I find ways to replenish that mental well.

How do you support and manage your energy?