Four Ideas That Keep You from Writing (or Completing) That Article, Novel, or Script
I recently completed a 15-day online course, “Retreat for the Writers Soul,” that prompted participants:
To contemplate our roles as writers.
To acknowledge, and ultimately quiet, the inner critic that often leads us to question our writing abilities, and
To rekindle our passion for writing, which can get lost amid the daily grind.
Although, I have worked as an editor/writer for several national magazines and newspapers, I needed those days of reflection to recapture the excitement of, enthusiasm for, and joy in writing. Most important, I learned to nurture my Writer-Self and to appreciate the gift of writing.
The retreat experience prompted me to share some self-sabotaging ideas that frequently cripple our writing efforts.
Do any of these statements ring a bell?
“I cannot find time to write.”
In fact, you must do just that: Find the time. If writing competes with other aspects of your life—having a fulltime job, childrearing, or running a business—block out time, even one hour a day, to feed your Muse and to escape the pressures of your life. Indulge your creative side and enjoy the reward of having taken your role as writer seriously.
“I have never written a book (article, script, play or poem) before.”
According to Insider.com, J.K. Rowling, the multimillionaire author of the epic Harry Potter series, “lived for years with government assistance as a single mother, and overcame a dozen rejections from publishers to become, almost overnight, one of the most successful and widely read authors in the history of the world.” Rowling studied French and the Classics at university, but she had never taken a writing class; she just marshalled her (genius) ideas and put them to paper. You can, too. Remember, all first-time authors or playwrights have never done it before! It can be scary to form that first sentence or to write believable lines of dialogue. The solution? Enjoy the fun of developing characters and places; relish the opportunity to share your one-of-a-kind perspective; or show off your expertise about a topic.
“I am not sure that my article/book is what editors/literary agents are looking for.”
Most editors or literary agents do not know what they are looking for until they find it. Although they might specialize in a particular genre, they are always seeking fresh perspectives on old themes. Be sure, however, to pitch an agency that is seeking your genre--thriller, young adult, sci-fi, how-to, romance or fantasy. (Likewise, make sure that you understand the elements of each genre.) That said, trust that your approach to a topic will be unique.
“I revise, revise, and revise.”
Most writing evolves over the course of multiple revisions. Be careful, though, that revising is not a subconscious excuse to forestall going public. Writers, by nature, are sensitive to criticism, yet only your readers (agents, publishers, or the public) can tell you how successful your efforts have been. Even if the feedback is negative, you might learn something that would improve your writing.
“I compare my prose to that of writers whom I admire.”
The work of great writers should inspire, not intimidate. No famous writer ever wrote with the intention of becoming famous; they wrote because they had a burning idea or story that begged for expression. Greatness was a by-product. All of us can be excellent, if not “great” writers. What is important is to love the creative process and to be bold enough to give life to ideas that lie within you.
I have said all the above to myself at one time or another.
Since writing is a solo process; Often the only voice we hear is nagging and critical. Strive to replace that voice with one that is supportive and empathetic.
Many writers do not garner immediate praise or recognition or reward for their efforts, so find enjoyment in process until the publishing world takes notice.
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