Why Revising Makes Me Want to Nap (And Why That’s Okay)
Revising always makes me sleepy. Not a casual, “I could rest my eyes for a minute” kind of tired, but the kind of mental exhaustion that feels like my brain is waving a white flag. Over time, I’ve learned that this isn’t a bad thing—in fact, it’s a natural part of my process. Here’s why I embrace it and how it actually helps me write better.
The Mental Exhaustion of Revising
Revising is a different beast compared to drafting. While drafting feels creative and free-flowing, revision requires:
•Laser focus: Analyzing each sentence and word choice.
•Tough decisions: Cutting parts you once loved but no longer serve the story.
•Attention to detail: Fixing pacing, structure, and consistency.
This level of deep work isn’t just tiring—it’s draining. It’s no wonder I find myself struggling to keep my eyes open after an hour or two.
Why I Stopped Fighting the Sleepiness
For years, I tried to power through the exhaustion:
•Drinking way too much coffee.
•Forcing myself to sit at my desk for hours.
•Pushing through brain fog, only to end up frustrated.
But eventually, I realized that fighting my body wasn’t working. When I gave myself permission to take a break—whether it was a quick nap or even just stepping away—I returned feeling sharper, more focused, and ready to tackle revisions again.
How Breaks and Naps Improve My Writing
I’ve noticed a few benefits of embracing rest during revisions:
•Fresh perspective: Stepping away gives me distance and clarity.
•Sharper focus: I’m more productive and catch things I missed before.
•Renewed energy: A quick nap can recharge my creativity.
Sometimes, the best ideas come after I’ve rested.
Embrace the Process
If revising makes you sleepy, you’re not alone. Writing takes an incredible amount of mental energy, and rest is part of the process. Instead of fighting it, try leaning into it. Listen to your body, recharge, and come back to the page when you’re ready.
Remember: Writing isn’t just about working hard—it’s about working smart. And sometimes, the smartest thing you can do is take a nap.
The Mental Exhaustion of Revising
Revising is a different beast compared to drafting. While drafting feels creative and free-flowing, revision requires:
•Laser focus: Analyzing each sentence and word choice.
•Tough decisions: Cutting parts you once loved but no longer serve the story.
•Attention to detail: Fixing pacing, structure, and consistency.
This level of deep work isn’t just tiring—it’s draining. It’s no wonder I find myself struggling to keep my eyes open after an hour or two.
Why I Stopped Fighting the Sleepiness
For years, I tried to power through the exhaustion:
•Drinking way too much coffee.
•Forcing myself to sit at my desk for hours.
•Pushing through brain fog, only to end up frustrated.
But eventually, I realized that fighting my body wasn’t working. When I gave myself permission to take a break—whether it was a quick nap or even just stepping away—I returned feeling sharper, more focused, and ready to tackle revisions again.
How Breaks and Naps Improve My Writing
I’ve noticed a few benefits of embracing rest during revisions:
•Fresh perspective: Stepping away gives me distance and clarity.
•Sharper focus: I’m more productive and catch things I missed before.
•Renewed energy: A quick nap can recharge my creativity.
Sometimes, the best ideas come after I’ve rested.
Embrace the Process
If revising makes you sleepy, you’re not alone. Writing takes an incredible amount of mental energy, and rest is part of the process. Instead of fighting it, try leaning into it. Listen to your body, recharge, and come back to the page when you’re ready.
Remember: Writing isn’t just about working hard—it’s about working smart. And sometimes, the smartest thing you can do is take a nap.
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