The Writing Life: Discipline and Challenges

Writing demands more than just a flair for words; it requires discipline, commitment, and resilience. While many envision the life of a writer as romantic—nestled in a cozy corner, writing easy lines of prose by the warmth of a fire—the reality is often far from idyllic.

Writers grapple with deadlines, audience growth, and the unrelenting pressure of self-improvement, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome. Yet, amid these challenges lies the undeniable magic of creating something amazing that readers will love.

The Reality of Writing: A Battle of the Mind

Writing is a journey of peaks and valleys for us writers. On some days, ideas flow effortlessly, and words seem to appear as if by magic. I’ve had moments when I’ve reread a scene I wrote years earlier in one of my published novels and can’t even remember writing it. Sometimes I am so astonished by the writing, I can’t fathom how it all came from my brain.

On other days, the blank screen stares back at us, taunting our inability to move forward. This struggle is not unique to writers but feels amplified due to the deeply personal nature of the craft—as is often the case with any creative endeavor.

Imagine standing midway on a challenging trail. Fatigue sets in, and the temptation to turn back becomes overwhelming. But quitting means abandoning not only the goal but the effort already invested. Writing is much the same. The key to progress lies in taking one step at a time, even on the most challenging days.

It may be just getting a page written, however rough. Or brainstorming a character’s motivation or creating a mind map of ideas for your plot.

Demystifying Writer’s Block

Writer’s block often gets a bad reputation as a mysterious, insurmountable obstacle. In truth, it’s not a condition but a state of mind. Many factors contribute to this mental roadblock. Here are some:

• High expectations leading to self-doubt.
• Writing projects misaligned with personal beliefs.
• Fear of rejection or failure.
• Exhaustion or burnout.
• Tackling unfamiliar styles or formats.
• [my favorite:] Not preparing well enough (plotting!)

Acknowledging these triggers is the first step to overcoming them. Writer’s block is not an excuse to stop but an invitation to understand and address underlying issues.

Strategies to Stay Motivated

Cultivating motivation daily can transform the writing process. Here are four strategies to help:

1. Write Every Day
   Building a daily writing habit, even if it’s just a few sentences, can create momentum. Start small, and over time, the practice becomes second nature. Dedicate a specific time each day to writing and stick to it.
2. Focus on Creativity Over Perfection
   The quest for perfection can hinder progress. Allow the first draft to be imperfect—it’s meant to be a starting point, not the finished product. Editing can come later; for now, prioritize creativity and flow.
3. Identify and Address the Root Cause
   Lack of motivation often stems from external or internal pressures. Take breaks, step away from the project, and engage in activities that rejuvenate the mind. Reflect on what’s holding you back, and confront it with a clear mind. Maybe you’re just not excited about your plot or characters or both. If a project bores you, it’s going to bore your readers. Ditch it or rework it until you land on something that excites you.
4. Speak Your Thoughts Out Loud
   Sometimes, articulating ideas verbally can break the mental logjam. Talk about your project with friends or even record yourself brainstorming. Hearing your thoughts can spark new insights and provide a fresh perspective.

Set Practical Goals for Writing Success

For writers juggling multiple roles—creator, editor, marketer, parenting—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Setting realistic, manageable goals can make the process less daunting:

1. Experiment with New Techniques
   Challenge yourself to explore different plotting or structuring methods. Tools like index cards, flow charts, or digital apps can help organize ideas and foster creativity.
2. Attend Writers’ Conferences
   Conferences offer a dual benefit: honing your craft through workshops and networking with fellow writers, agents, and publishers. Even if you’re not ready to pitch, these events provide valuable insights and connections.
3. Focus on One Weakness
   Identify a specific area of your writing to improve, whether it’s dialogue, pacing, or descriptive detail. Concentrating on one aspect at a time prevents overwhelm and fosters noticeable growth.
4. Partner with a Critique Buddy or Group
   A trusted critique partner or group provides constructive feedback and accountability. Regular exchanges of work can keep you on track and motivated. I’ve often had critique buddies who held me accountable to getting the writing done week after week.
5. Master the Craft of Language
   Strengthening grammar, punctuation, and editing skills elevates your writing. It reduces the distraction of technical errors, allowing you to focus on storytelling. Consider courses or books on self-editing to sharpen these abilities.

Think Small, Achieve Big

When faced with writing challenges, thinking small can be transformative. Break tasks into manageable pieces:

• Set aside short, consistent writing sessions rather than marathon blocks. Even five minutes daily can build momentum.
• Focus on the immediate chapter, scene, or paragraph instead of the entire project.
• Quiet the internal critics. Writing is a personal journey—invite only supportive voices into your creative space.

Writing is a process of discovery, both of stories and of oneself. The struggles are part of the journey, shaping writers into better artists. By cultivating discipline, embracing challenges, and finding joy in the craft, writers can navigate their path with resilience and creativity.

Remember, it’s not about achieving perfection but about showing up, every day, to tell the stories only you can tell.

Featured Photo by Jukan Tateisi on Unsplash