I want to write a novel. It’s been a goal of mine since high school. I have a handful of “novel” ideas (see what I did there?) but nothing is finished yet. I’m about 33,000 words into the best story and I can’t seem to continue it. In the time I’ve put off finishing that book, I’ve written short stories, radio scripts, a Christmas play for the church I attend….but not another word in the book. I just don’t have the “umph” to write that story anymore.
I’m an avid reader, and I suppose I could take the time that I use reading to write. I feel guilty if I don’t read every day. It keeps my mind sharp, it shows me how other published authors sound, and, let’s face it, I’ve always been a book nerd. *Pushes glasses up onto her nose* Besides, my sophomore creative writing teacher always told me: “Readers are writers and writers are readers.”
I can’t even imagine taking time away from my son to write. If I hear him playing in the other room, I will go play too! Plus the time around the dinner table watching him eat the ketchup off his fish sticks is precious – I wouldn’t trade it! He also gives me some of the best stories – that may end up published someday – so I can’t miss those!
I have to get creative with how to be creative regarding this novel. Maybe just one paragraph (or one sentence) a day until the creativity hits me?
Any readers out there have advice? I’d love to hear it. (Or if you have J.K. Rowling’s phone number, that would work, too.)
Creative Slumps, or How Can I Want To When I Don't Want To?
