What if my delightful break became a debilitating block?
Shit, did it?
Unfortunately, I know the feeling…
I guess we all do.
Here are a few comments from real, live writers who are treading the same track as you and me. You might find some solace in here.
While not writing …
Reading is a great way to take a break but still keep your writing brain active. I second it along with meditation, and exercise. I have quite long breaks from writing lately because so many other things have been jostling for my attention. I do fear the block that can result though.
Try …
I meditate and then just dot point ideas to come back to.
The insight below came from two writers in the same group, responding to the same post. This is a great example of knowing yourself or, perhaps next time, switch your inner story around …
I can’t write during school holidays.
It is always interrupted time but I do my best writing with my family around.
Frustration seems to up the ante.
Know that you needed a proper break…
I know it’s good for me to have a proper break from writing, even though it feels uncomfortable/wrong! I just have to remind myself that it’s still there when I get back to it … I pick up the routines once I’m ready to return. I do forget, but I do also know that balance is so helpful in the long run! It’s important to rest!
Did you finish something before the break? Congratulations. Make a time to get back on the horse, saddle up and ride (write) badly for a while…
This year I am finishing a first draft just as Christmas is here so I'm putting it aside over the 'break' and hopefully getting back into things next year by reading and editing.
I am lucky enough to have a 2-book deal, and I worked out that to avoid panic I need to be just past the halfway mark on the second book before the Christmas break. I’ve been working extra hard to get to this point. Not only can I relax and enjoy time with my family (who are rarely all together), but I can give the book some breathing space too. Of course I’ve neglected everything else in the house, not to mention Christmas buying and planning; but so what? I'll still have a very tight deadline to finish the book, but I have thought through a lot of the second half, so it should go smoothly.
Appreciate …
I would like to write everyday but have had to take a few back steps this year. I wouldn't say I have suffered writers block from this but have to appreciate any moments of inspiration and make the most of any freedom to grab the opportunity.
Finally, optimistically, look at it this way …
I find a break allows the subconscious or whatever it is at the back of the mind to do some sorting. That means that I return refreshed, often revitalised. Though sometimes it has meant that I realised that the work I was doing wasn't the right work, that it should be something else. But that's important too!
No solace in these words? Get in touch. The ASTT story-coaches can help you focus at times when you worry you might waiver.
May your words pour onto the page,
