Last year, I had some very specific goals. I was going to edit my two completed first drafts, submit them both for publishing, and write a new first draft. Of course, I wrote the perfect first draft (twice, I might add), so editing wasn't going to be a big deal. And I am a brilliant writer, so of course, both manuscripts would be picked up immediately for a publishing deal and I would be famous! (And also, well paid.) And the cycle would continue. That was in my naive state.
Now, I've had six or seven months off from the writing routine. I haven't really posted to my blog. I haven't opened my drafts, except to send a copy to a friend who wanted to see what I had been up to. I started a new wip in November for National Novel Writing Month and got about 2000 words into the story before I stopped writing again. (It was a weekend endeavor and I was 8 months pregnant, but still.)
It's been so long since I really did anything serious with this whole writing thing that I'm kind of worried about getting back into it. Not that I don't love it still. I do. I just have gotten out of the routine. And finding a new routine is kind of rough. So, I'm still thinking about goals to set and how to find the excitement again.
The good news is that I have two drafts that I haven't looked at in months and months. "They" (whoever they are) always say that you should put some distance between you and your drafts so that you can edit with some detachment. I will be able to do that, I think.
So, here's the question, friends. How do you get the passion back when you feel like it's missing? How and where do you start after taking a break?
4 comments:
Welcome back, Kayeleen! The only significant writing break I've ever taken was while I was in college, and I found that the thing that brought me back was a new idea that I just had to write. I'm sure the same thing will happen to you:)
You just have to jump in with both feet, Kayeleen. The more you do it, the more connected you'll feel. The more connected you feel, the more fun you'll have. Voila! :-)
Easier said than done, huh?! I am so glad you're back. You've been missed.
Welcome back. I know it can be hard to start back up after a break, but it can also be a good thing. You'll be able to look at your project with fresh eyes. When I take a break I usually read what I've written from start to end, it makes editing easier.
Or I jump straight in, forcing myself to write, if starting a new project.
Good luck with your writing.
Welcome back!
I think the passion will find you quickly! Just jump right in, pick up one of those drafts, and I guarantee that within a few pages, you'll be hooked AGAIN and feeling the inspiration! ;-)
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