My writing mojo has disappeared. Again. After good progress with character development in recent months, the ever-elusive and serendipitous inspiration has evaporated.
Waiting to stumble upon inspiration or hoping it will somehow just show up is not working. The muse is not going to surprise me and strike like a thunderbolt.
Most writers already know this. Understanding the theory is one thing but now the reality is becoming all too clear.
This is me making excuses and I am tired of my own whining. Writing requires a commitment to work harder. Plain and simple.
The current dilemma is that I have only the loosest idea of the story. There is no story arc or ending yet. Trusting all will unfold as I go does not mean there are shortcuts. The work feels monumental but I have to just dig in.
A quick google along the line of ‘Finding the Story You Want to Write’ revealed a few good suggestions:
- Look beyond the premise to a bigger story.
- Realize that loving parts of your story isn’t enough.
- Figure out what would blow you away or make your own head explode.
Writers also figure out what works for themselves in order to keep going; identifying what motivates and sets them up for success.
When am I most excited about writing? When enthralled with someone else’s words, envisioning a scene I should capture and when sharing the writing experiences and processes with other writers.
I imagine that chasing the muse involves immersing oneself in what you love about writing and using the endless tools and resources available until you find what is useful. Also, consistent, disciplined effort when the writing feels good and when it does not. As much as I would like this to be the last time I need to have this talk with myself, I know it won’t be. However, one day I will share writing successes.
Lately I have begun to realize that I am more a creature of habit than previously believed. This is great news for me. There is a good chance of following through if I establish better writing habits. Get on with it; write, finish stories, and create my own inspiration.
I was recently reminded of an excellent book – The Kick-Ass Writer, by Chuck Wendig. The book describes Wendig as using ‘an explosive, broadside of gritty advice that will destroy your fears, clear the path, and help you find your voice, your story, and your audience’.
The format is fun and to the point. A couple ideas that have stuck with me:
‘Your writing has whatever value you give it.’
Always ask ‘Why do I want to write this?’
‘Finish what you begin.’
It’s time I did just that.
Hey Bernice! Thank you for sharing your struggles. I am right there with you and I appreciate knowing I’m not alone. Let’s do this girl!
I will check out Chuck’s book. Thanks.
Again, wonderful blog! Donna