Look, we can't all wake up at 5AM and churn out 1000 words every day (or, in my case, ever). Writing's our hobby. Sometimes it's helpful to reframe our perspective out of the 'rise and grind' toxic positivity mindset and be a little more gentle. This is meant to be enjoyable.
Yes, writing can require discipline and grit like any other hobby, but it's helpful to periodically remind ourselves that there are various ways to be fulfilled and successful. Save this post for moments where you feel like your motivation is flagging, or when you need a little boost to get back into your passion.
Every Writer’s Journey Is Different
J.R.R. Tolkien published The Hobbit when he was 45. Nancy Yi Fan was 13 when her first book was released. Lorna Page published her very first novel at the age of 93.
It's literally never too early nor too late. You have plenty of time to reach your goal. It can happen at any age!
Don’t Compare Your First Draft With Someone’s 10th
The books you see sitting in bookshops have been through multiple drafts, and been altered by professionals. Although it can be easy to look at your first draft and hate it for not being on par with a published novel, try to be kinder to yourself! Or I’ll spray ya.
It’s Okay to Take Ages on One Project
It's easy to feel demotivated and jealous when we see people churning out novels in a matter of weeks, but not everyone writes so quickly. In fact, Susanna Clarke took 10 years to write Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell (one of my favourites!) and it went on to win Time's Best Novel of the Year.
Your Writing Is Important
Your voice is unique, and it matters. Your perspective and experience are something that only you have, and your writing is a really cool way to share that with the world. Maybe the “idea” has been done before, but nobody can tell the story exactly like you can.
Breaks Are Not Only Normal but Needed
Never feel guilty about needing to step away from your project sometimes. Breaks are normal, and can be the first line of defence against creative burnout. If you need to spend some time away from the pen/keyboard, you're still a 'real writer' whatever that means. In fact, you'll probably return to your project bursting with new ideas.
