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.)