I’ve had trouble sleeping lately and I think I have found the reason why.

I used to knock off my work day at about 4 p.m. But due to a recent move that changed the order of things, I have had to sit down at the computer for a couple of hours after dinner most evenings.

When I write something particularly emotional, scary, or suspenseful I end my day with frustrated or angry feelings.

I put my theory to the test this week. 

When I worked on one of my books about dementia (I’m sure I’ve mentioned some of them. For example, 

I Remember Holidays) my anxiety level wasn’t nearly as high as when I worked on my suspense novel.

So, I’ve learned an important lesson: end my day’s writing with something light and happy. 

And I’ll get a good night’s sleep.