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Every writer finds their process sooner or later. My process varies according to what I'm writing.
I mulled over an idea for a couple of years before deciding to write my first novel. For me, fiction requires a combination of structure and spontaneity. I came up with the story arc, a few pivotal plot developments, and the climax before the writing began. Each day I'd figure out what scene would move me closer to the end. In the process, my characters took over and a few unexpected changes occurred. My novel is better for it.
The novel came about one word count goal at a time. My daily goals varied, some days more lofty than others. Some days staring at the screen in puzzlement. But then when the end was in sight, the last 20,000 words came rushing out in 5 days. I wrote nearly around the clock, work and obligations aside. Let me tell you: it was glorious, that unbridled pulse of inspiration and overflowing creativity.
When I wrote the last sentence, I sat back on the couch in wonder. I'd done it. I'd written a novel and I had plenty of ideas for more.
I thought I'd take a couple weeks off, then edit and query, then start book #2. That didn't happen.
While fiction writing is on hold right now, my blog has taken me in some interesting and unexpected directions. My voice has grown stronger and more distinct. I have kind friends championing my work and loyal readers to boot.
Blog-wise, I utilize the same mix of structure of spontaneity. I refer to a calendar to keep track of regular gigs, book reviews, and how often I write about my usual topics. I do try to finish a post a couple of days in advance so there's time to fine-tune. I have a million ideas and plenty of half-written drafts.
Whatever I write, I tend to think about it for quite a while first. If a particularly well-written sentence comes to mind, I'll jot it down. Otherwise I turn ideas around and around until I've figured out what I want to say. Sometimes I'll start writing and the theme or point will present itself. But I've learned to let things simmer. It's a part of my process, even if I wish I could hurry it along.
Nowhere has this been more evident than writing nonfiction.
One of the things readers comment on most often is my honesty. This always throws me for a loop. (Aren't most bloggers honest?) But in the spirit of honesty, I'm letting you in on this season of my life. When I told you I was stuck, I briefly mentioned a writing project.
I never thought I would write nonfiction. I thought the blog was enough. I'd write fiction and blog and live happily ever after.
Until a message presented itself. A message, as my friends remind me, for such a time as this. I've started writing a book proposal.
It's been a steep learning curve. I write nonfiction differently from how I blog or write fiction. It's taken time to figure it out. Too much time. The end is in sight, at least for this leg of the journey, but I find myself surrounded by distractions. Plus, my SAD is back.
I thought I needed margin but it turns out it's a matter of focus. So I sat down and plotted out my priorities and what I needed to do to make it happen.
Imagine my surprise when it became clear I need to take a sabbatical. A blog sabbatical.
It turns out I can't both blog and write nonfiction. At least not well.
Of course, Resistance is a factor. (The irony was not lost when my friends Amanda and Anne both recently wrote about this.) It's easy for me to justify writing a blog post instead of my other writing projects. After all, I'm still writing. This makes a break all the more necessary.
{Taking a break is scary. Especially when you're supposed to write consistently and build a platform and I love reader feedback and I have so many ideas...}
In many ways, this feels like a fallow season. Preparing me for what's next.
I'm taking March to focus on this proposal but I won't be disappearing from the blog altogether. I have a few book reviews and at least one giveaway. I'll host the next What I'm Into on March 29. Plus, I'll still be kicking it around social media.
In the meantime, I would appreciate it if you'd pray for me during the coming weeks. Pray for dilligence, clarity, and discipline. I'm really, really excited about what I've put together thus far. The chapter outline thrills me in a way no outline ever has before.
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How do you know when to take a break?
