I appreciate this month’s co-hosts: SE White, Cathrina Constantine, Natalie Aguire, Joylene Nowell Butler, and Jacqui Murray.
June 1 question – When the going gets tough writing the story, how do you keep yourself writing to the end? If have not started the writing yet, why do you think that is and what do you think could help you find your groove and start?
Have you ever taken a strengths assessment? A free one I like is the VIA Survey of Signature Strengths at http://authentichappiness.org
I mention this because one of my top character strengths on the survey, perseverance, relates to my answer. I may not be the fastest or most focused writer, but I will definitely finish what I start! I have a dysfunctional need for achievement that keeps me going, I guess. 😉
Yet, I haven’t started writing a new novel in two years. My hiatus stems from both disappointing sales and high demand in my day job as a psychologist (the pandemic has bludgeoned mental health, especially among young people.) I do want to return, and I’m hoping the addition of a colleague in September will lighten the load and inspire me to get back to writing novels.
What keeps YOU going?
Streaming recommendation: An inspiring story of perseverance is Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty on HBO. I’m not a big NBA fan, but I loved this insider view of the 1979-80 season, as well as the Netflix documentary about The Chicago Bulls (The Last Dance).
Jennifer Lane Books 
Perseverance is the key to continuing to write. But when we work full-time, we can’t always find the time to write, so don’t beat yourself up because you’re busy at work, which is also your career. It happened to me many times when I worked full-time as a lawyer. But, like you, I was helping people, which is just as important as writing.
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Helping people provides a sense of meaning and is important–you’re right, Natalie. And now you’re helping people escape the doldrums of life through quality entertainment! ❤
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Hi,
I imagine that the Pandemic and now the war in Ukraine have many people in need of psychological assistance. Don’t forget to take care of yourself.
Shalom aleichem
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Good reminder, Pat, thank you! I had difficulty finding your IWSG post today. If you see this, will you post the URL?
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Sorry you’ve been strapped for time. I imagine you have been overrun with people needing mental help.
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Hopefully we can get back to normal soon, Alex!
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Sometimes, it’s better for our mental health not to force ourselves when we can’t, right? I hope things pan out and allow you to return to writing.
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Yes, let’s go with the flow, Loni! Everything is as it should be. Thanks for stopping by. ❤
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What keeps me going is if I stop I may not start again. And I’ve had my rest for now. Hang in there. If I can get back in, so can you. Keep the faith.
Anna from elements of emaginette
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That’s awesome YOU’RE BACK, Anna!
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You’re doing such important work in these challenging times! I hope you’re able to find some peace and return to writing if/when you’re ready.
BTW I used Dori (Dorrie?) in my post too! She’s the poster child (poster fish?) for perseverance.
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Janet, I think we’re all dealing with this pandemic struggle in important ways. Hooray for Dory(?)! 😉
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