Are You Getting In The Way Of Your Own Writing?

Are You Getting In The Way Of Your Own Writing?

Confronting yourself about your commitment to writing can be tough. If you’re sensitive like me, it’s even more stressful. But seriously ask yourself: are you getting in the way of your own writing?

My Epiphany

About a month ago, a friend from my local writing group asked me how my writing was going. Simple enough question, right? I knew I hadn’t given much time to my writing and as I crafted my response, I had an epiphany. I’m getting in the way of my own writing.

It wasn’t an easy thing to confront myself about, but the thought was there, whether I liked it or not. I’m notorious for not being able to find time for writing. I always say I don’t have the time. But the truth is I don’t make the time. If I really want to make my writing dream happen. I need to make myself do it.

The Acceptable Excuses

Everyone has excuses for not making time to write. And for a lot of writers out there, writing is not our top priority. But that’s okay.

I had an epiphany, yes. But in that epiphany, I also had to recognize that I do have things going on in my life that need to come before my writing. I have a family. I have a husband and a soon-to-be two-year-old son. They come first. They always will. I have a job. I need to make a living. That’s an absolute necessity. That comes second.

As I thought about it, I realized that writing came third. That’s perfectly okay for me. But that’s still a top priority. I need to treat it as such. What other things am I putting in that spot? Mostly on TV. After work and taking care of my son all day, I indulge in a bit of binge-watching. It helps me relax. In reality, this time could be better spent doing some writing. Even for just a little bit.

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Making Time For Writing

I don’t know why I have it in my head that I need to have a plethora of time in order to sit down and write. Maybe it’s because I used to literally spend hours plotting and writing when I first began this journey. But that’s not the case.

Whether I have 15 minutes, 30 minutes, an hour, or more, I can devote time to writing. Any writing time is better than no writing time at all. Let’s face it. This is my dream! I don’t want to let the moments of working toward that dream slip by me. I deserve better than that for myself.

I Challenge You

Do you find yourself in a similar situation? Be honest! If you do, I have a challenge for you. For one week, keep a diary of your daily activities. Time how long you spend doing them. At the end of the week, take a look at where you could manage your time to fit in writing, no matter how long. Then, the next week, I want you to make it a priority to get those writing minutes (or hours) in.

I would love to hear your results if you’re open to sharing them! So shoot me an email or send me a message on social media and let me know how it goes.

Are You Getting In The Way Of Your Own Writing?