So, it's time to address when taking a break, moves into taking an extended break, which then creeps into flat out procrastination...
What's a writer to do? Here are some tricks to get you back on track...
Recognize the Fear & Stop Feeding It
There comes a point when you get stuck and you can't move on because your energy and mojo has been replaced with flat out fear...
Fear of failure and your book won't sell at all...
Fear of not finishing what you started...
Fear of your work being rejected and getting negative reviews...
Life is full of the unknown, but the only way to move forward is to take risks. And with risks come fears, but the more you give energy and space in your brain to those fears, the more they grow. Stop feeding them and they will die.
Start Now
I mean right now. Start working immediately on your writing. No matter how small an effort you make, get something, anything done. And then, schedule the time you will work tomorrow and commit to showing up.
Start Small
You don't have to finish a chapter or a scene. Just finish a sentence, an idea, or some dialogue. It's like running or exercising. You can't always jump back into the level of exertion and time you were operating at before you took a break. Just get started and the momentum will come.
Talk Yourself Through It
I will write today. I will finish this scene. I will be back to write more tomorrow. Let only positive self talk and positive reinforcement run through your brain.
Latch On to the Endorphins
Endorphins are those natural, feel good, chemicals you get them from exercising. I also get them when I'm in a good vibe with my writing. When I'm focused and delivering on my writing goals, I feel unbeatable and unstoppable, like success is mine for the taking. The best part? That power and confidence stays with me all day.
Be Dramatic
In this case a little drama might give you the kick in the rear you need. Let's face it, time is fleeting. So ask yourself, if you had 5 years, 3 years, even 1 year to live, would you care more about finishing the dishes right now or working to finish your book. Don't waste any more time and don't let your dreams languish.
So let's all get back in the saddle today and write on...
