4. Take breaks

When working independently on comics or paintings, I usually take a break when I reach a stopping point. I often use part of the break to step back and assess my progress, while also taking time to use the restroom and grab a drink of water or a snack, and situate my body in a different position (for example, stretching my back and hips after sitting for a long time, lying down, or simply sitting in a different chair). With my day job, I will often take a break immediately following any meeting that is 45 minutes or longer. That may mean lying down for a few minutes and taking some deep breaths. Or it may be talking to Chris for a little while, either to unload to someone with an outside perspective, or to plan our next meal. We will often coordinate our lunch and dinner so that we have that as a rallying point at different points of the day.