I don’t know exactly what’s wrong with me but I’m in the WORST funk ever. I’ve been struggling with this current work in progress. It’s like I’ve lost all motivation. As though the muse has deserted me. I can’t seem to get anything going and I’ve had lots of problems with the storyline. I chatted with a friend to brainstorm and that seemed to help. I finally sat down and figured out the pitch to include the protag, the conflict and the stakes. And then I’ve been so busy I haven’t had a chance to get back to it to actually write. It’s like the Universe is conspiring against me.
I think part of my problem has been feeling like I have no direction. I’ve completed my contractual obligations with one publisher and I have a submission out with another one. I’m sort of in limbo. I really hate being in limbo. I had intended to pitch to an agent at Nationals but now that agent can’t make it which bums me out. I could submit anyway but the damn book isn’t nearly ready because I’ve been floundering around on it for the last freaking three months.
Plus I’m just generally frustrated with the whole business of writing. I know, I know, I know what you’re gonna say. Don’t give up, blah blah blah. I won’t give up on my dream BUT it’s frustrating in the meantime. It’s disheartening to get a royalty check for $2 for a book that you put your blood, sweat and tears into. I think I’ve reached a point where I’m on total burnout. So I think I need to take a step back and re-evaluate some things and figure out what my next step will be.
Hi Michelle, we’ve all been there and it’s the pits. Work so hard and wonder, what’s it all for? But remember the delight when a reader gets it, or someone sends you email saying you changed their life or even the one person who said she giggled through the book. Your writing touched someone, and the power of ONE cannot be underestimated. So, yes, take a step back and refresh and recharge, then dive in and know that somewhere out there, someone is going to be touched by your writing. And that ONE person makes it all worth while. *hugs*
🙂 Thank you Rachelle! It’s nice to know I’m not alone.
You’re not alone. I’ve been feeling the same thing and then this morning received a review that reinforces what Rachelle said above. Sometimes that’s all we have is that one thing. Keep moving forward even if it’s just to find a photo that reminds you of your character. My best to you, Michelle.
Thank you, PC! I will just keep on keeping on. 🙂