Is writing difficult? Some ideas for how to make it easier.

Notebook on table next to crumpled sheets of paper. Image illustrates the frustration a writer may experience when blocked..

I’ve noticed recently that several writers I follow on social media have been struggling. Some of them seem to be having trouble managing their work/life balance and this is impacting on their ability to write (they simply don’t have the time or mental energy for it). Others appear to be struggling with their beliefs about themselves and their writing, and this is impacting on their ability to rewrite/redraft—what’s the point if nothing will ever happen with it anyway/it’s no good?

While all these struggles are absolutely valid, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing that can be done about them.

For example, if you’re struggling to create new stories because of a difficult work/life balance, you could try writing at different times (such as on weekends) rather than putting pressure on yourself to write on weekdays, even if that’s what you’re used to doing. Yes, this is a shame to have to do, especially if you already have a good writing routine going—it’s a loss. But rather than stopping writing entirely, sometimes flexibility is key. Noting the loss here is important, then finding a way forward so that you can write again.

Another idea might be to take some time out from the actual writing to, as Julia Cameron says in her famous book The Artist’s Way, focus on refilling your creative well. This might be through rest and carving out space to just be for a while. Or it might mean setting time/space aside to intentionally engage the senses, such as through cooking a tasty meal, or walking in a wildflower meadow, or whatever helps you feel creative and refreshed. While this won’t solve the problem of not having enough time, it can make the time that you do have more productive as you’re better able to be present in it—if you can sit down and just write for even 20 minutes, that’s a better use of your time than sitting down for 15 minutes and angsting because you’re too stressed to be creative. (On the other hand, if sitting and angsting before you get down to the actual writing is part of your creative process, that’s okay. Everyone’s different and there’s no right or wrong. 😊 )

White wildflowers with yellow centres growing in a field of grass. Getting out in nature may help with writer’s block.

Similarly, if you’re struggling to see the value of your writing, you might also choose to take a little break to rest your mind. This can also help to provide distance on the writing, which can provide clarity when it comes to rewriting. But you could also consider what’s causing these beliefs about your writing. Are they founded on anything?

For example, if you’ve never taken a writing class, and you mostly read informational nonfiction, then it makes sense that you might struggle with fiction writing. In that case you might plan to read more fiction in your chosen genre, to get a better feel for it. Or you could sign up to a creative writing class, through your local library for example, or online.

However, if you regularly read fiction and have drafted a collection of short stories, then this belief would seem to be less founded. Here are a few things you might then consider:

• If you spend a lot of time on social media, are you regularly comparing yourself to other writers? If so, can you take a break/spend less time there while you rewrite, or remind yourself that everyone has a different creative process with their work?

  While there are writers who can put out a book (or three) a year, there are many more writers who write much more slowly. Social media only shows short snippets of people’s lives, the context in which they’re writing/living is often invisible. For all you know that rare writer you’re seeing on social media who seems to have two jobs, multiple children and appears to be putting out five books a year, could have cleaners, live-in childcare, and ghostwriters all working for them.

  But, more importantly, if you had that life, you, and your stories, would be completely different. What makes your work interesting is that it comes from you and is a direct result of your life experiences.

• Would journaling around your insecurities/worries help? This could allow you to explore any negative emotions you might be experiencing around your writing. You could also use this practice to brainstorm potential solutions.

  For example, if you’re worried about whether your novel will ever appeal to anyone, you could write about who your ideal reader might be, then you could look for them online (in reading groups on Facebook or Goodreads, for example) or elsewhere. If you’re worried about how you’ll market your book once it’s published, you could draw up a few steps you’ll take to get it in front of potential readers (are there bloggers you might contact, or could you read up on book marketing?). In other words, getting your worries written down and then finding concrete ways to address them can help you move forward with a project.

• My final suggestion is to consider whether you’re just too tired and have been writing into a vacuum. Since Covid hit and many workplaces went virtual, more of us are spending a lot of time at home. While that can be great and offer a lot of flexibility, it can also mean that we’re more likely to curate our experiences, which can mean less spontaneity.

  Getting out and having new experiences can help to shake things up and means you’ll return to your writing with a fresh perspective and new energy. This doesn’t have to be anything big or expensive—maybe it’s just taking a walk in a different area or trying a new food (from a restaurant or the supermarket). But it could mean something bigger too, like taking a trip, or exploring a new art gallery or museum. (Julia Cameron calls these Artist’s Dates in her book The Artist’s Way, and she says that nurturing your inner artist is important. I highly recommend reading her book.)

My cat, Cleo, who is fluffy, black and white. She’s standing outside next to greenery and a propped up book. Book is The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron.

If you’re struggling with any of these issues, or any others, please know that you’re not alone! It’s been a hard winter, and a difficult last few years, for so many people. I trust that you’ll find the strength you need to make progress, however you define it.

If you’re someone who’s struggling with their writing/rewriting process and want some help, you might consider my coaching services. I offer a free 30-minute introductory session (via email, phone or videocall) to determine whether we’re a good fit. Just contact me via the button below and we can set something up.