I have many different times in my life when I wanted to quit. The longest stretch was about six years ago. I had a lot going on in my personal life (my younger son required two surgeries within the space of a few months), and I’d gotten some discouraging feedback on a new project. I’ve since learned never to let anyone see my first drafts, but I didn’t know that then. I was so discouraged I set that book aside.
That’s when the writer's block started. For a few months, I just wrote, “I can’t write anything,” in my journal. At least I was writing words, right?
How did I find my way back? I started asking myself what I really liked to read and what I really wanted to write if I didn’t have to worry about anyone else reading it. This led me to tackling a YA retelling, a book of my heart. Instead of writing for the market, I wrote just for me.
No, it’s not published, but that’s not the point. The important thing is that through writing that novel, I found my love of writing again. Because if I don’t enjoy writing, why am I doing this anyway?
I’ve since learned that I’m often most vulnerable to giving up when life presents me with a mix of writing obstacles and difficult life circumstances. But now that I’ve seen I can come back, dealing with those bad days or those days (or months) when writing comes hard is easier. I know they won’t last forever.
All I need to keep in mind is why I’m writing in the first place: What do I like to read? What do I like to write?
If that’s my focus, I won’t give up for long.
And that book I gave up on? It’s finished, and I’m now querying it. Setting something aside doesn’t mean forever.
What is Insecure Writer's Support Group?
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time - and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
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Hi Jenni,
ReplyDeleteI so agree. Setting something aside doesn't mean giving up. Sometimes it is necessary to set it aside especially when it comes to caring for people we love.
Good luck on your query.
All the best.
Shalom aleichem,
Patricia
Everything Must Change
I look at those times of no writing as interruptions and not quitting. Glad you were able to come back to writing for yourself.
ReplyDeleteI think this is huge -
ReplyDelete"I’ve since learned that I’m often most vulnerable to giving up when life presents me with a mix of writing obstacles and difficult life circumstances. But now that I’ve seen I can come back, dealing with those bad days or those days (or months) when writing comes hard is easier. I know they won’t last forever."
Knowing and understanding how we work is so important. Good for you!
Very true! If you aren't enjoying it, then it's a job.
ReplyDeleteI've felt drained and spent, but never felt like quitting. This is because I realized writing helps *me,* whether read by others, loved by others, or accepted for publication.
ReplyDeleteBut unlike the mantra "quitting is not an option," which I've read on many a blog, I think it is an option and a valid one.
Glad you haven't!
Seconded! Just because it's set aside doesn't mean you won't come back to it. I'm hoping you'll get some solid bites during the querying process! (And I totally would have quit at that point too. Surgeries and little kids... Wow.)
ReplyDeleteI struggle with writer's block a lot. One of my critique partners just asked me the other day how to get back to writing when blocked. I will send her your link. I think it's just what she needs. Thanks for the post.
ReplyDeleteI agree. To write just for oneself is one of the greatest gifts we can give to ourselves and in turn it becomes a gift for others. So glad you know how to find your way back to the page.
ReplyDeleteI can relate. It can be very hard to write when going through stressful times. I think it's okay to pause when one has to and come back to when things settle down.
ReplyDelete