What Every Writer Should Do When Times Get Hard

Introduction

Have you ever been at that point where you’ve just had enough? 

Your pen feels like a dagger in your hands, and every word is written with bitterness and resentment. 

The manuscript that was once your darling has now become nothing but a source of complete and utter contempt. 

You’re staring at the end of your last chapter thinking, “I wonder if it’s too late for me to become an estate agent…”

Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Today I want to talk to you about one thing you should do when you feel like giving up, but before I do that, here’s one thing you absolutely shouldn’t do.

The Exit Strategy 

I work for myself, and because of this, a common question people ask me is: “What’s your exit strategy?”

What they mean is: Do you have a plan for what you’re going to do if it all fails? What will you do for work? Have you set aside funds so you won’t die in a gutter somewhere?

It sounds like a sensible idea, but it’s actually the worst idea ever.

If you have a fall back plan, you’ll fall back on it. - (Tweet this!)

Writing is my destiny, and it’s your destiny. So, no matter how much it frustrates you from time to time, nothing on this earth is ever going to fulfil you as much as your writing will…period. 

What’s a little frustration when you’re doing something you love, compared to a lifetime of misery from choosing something safe and meaningless?

You can’t fail if you refuse to give up. - (Tweet this!)

It frustrates you because you care. It frustrates you because it matters. It frustrates you because it is worth it.

All writers get frustrated at times, but that doesn’t determine your worth as a writer, and it certainly doesn’t mean you should give up. You don’t need an exit strategy…you need an inspiration strategy. 

The Inspiration Strategy

• Which friends can you turn to when things get tough?
• Which of your idols or mentors can you listen to or watch to help you regain your fire?
• What can you do to remind yourself why your writing is important to you?
• What can you do to take a break until you start missing your writing?

Conclusion

You're allowed to feel frustrated. You’re allowed to complain, or cry, or throw things against the wall. 

You’re allowed to shun your responsibilities if that’s what it takes for you to feel better that day, or that week. You are not allowed, however, to have an exit strategy. 

You are not allowed to give up.

What do you do when you need to feel inspired? Let me know in the comments below!