When Writing is Hard

Most mornings I get up ready to write and anxious to create. There are a few mornings when I am distracted, concerned, or down right empty. All the players in my head are silent and the wonders of my several created worlds are hidden from me. It is frustrating, daunting, and even frightening to find this place. Quickly awakened are the haunts of my place as a writer, my self doubt, and the temptation to chuck it all and go dig ditches somewhere.

It is important to do two things when you feel this way. One is to write something anyway. Make yourself pound out some words. Do some free writing to loosen up your brain. Get some words down no matter what their quality or lack of quality. If you feel later that you should line the parakeet cage with what you have written, that is all well and good. The important thing is that you are only a writer if you write. You can then move on to the second thing knowing that you are still a writer and have worked today. Make yourself write every day that you are supposed to write.

The second thing is to do something to recreate yourself. What is it that recharges you? Go for a walk. Visit a museum or library. Watch some little kids play your favorite sport. Do something to rebuild who you are from the inside out. Clear your mind and see the beauty of the universe in some new way. Do something to recharge your battery.

Even if it takes a day or two or three to get back to your stride, you will get it back. The important thing is to keep at it. A writer writes, always.

Wishing you joy in the journey,
Aramis Thorn