The Joy of Writing
In recent months, I’ve found myself avoiding working on my current book. This book has posed more obstacles than any project I’ve ever worked on. At times, I’ve lost the joy of writing and the fun I normally have when I write.
Have you ever been there?
As far as I’m concerned, when writing loses its fun, it’s time to stop writing.
How do you feel about that? Do find your writing fun? Is there joy in your heart as you peck away at the keyboard?
Or is it work you approach with apprehension?
Somehow, in writing with apprehension (or any other negative emotion), it seems the words that would end up on the page wouldn’t be the best words, the right words, to communicate to the reader.
Today, I want to encourage you to set aside an hour to think about how you feel about the actual task of writing. Examine those emotions and ask yourself why you feel that way, especially if any negative emotions crop up. This is even more so if you’ve been avoiding it!
If you’ve lost the joy of writing, ask yourself to find a way to gain it back. If there never was any joy or fun, then it’s time to ask yourself, “what do I really want to do?”
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Leave your comments below.
The first words written often need to be heard and then can be moved aside for a better result.
Jeannette
So true. I’m glad I have critique partners that help me see those fixes.
I have found that when I feel this way, it’s time to pull away. To go for a walk, to read a good book, go out to eat, to travel, to watch a chic flic. Then when I come back after a break (whether short or long), I feel refreshed and ready to write again – and with joy. Traveling and doing new things especially inspires my writing.
Great advice, Beth. Thank you!