or, How Writing Fears Entanglement Theory Explains Why We Sometimes Spiral - Often, when we feel one writing fear, we feel them all. Here's why - and what to do.
I agree that fear cascades and the fear of being not good enough is the Fear of All Fears. I deal with that by reminding myself it's the process of writing I enjoy and stop worrying about the end result. But, for me, there's another impediment that creeps in at times: ennui. And that can be harder to beat.
I always say that you have to write for yourself first. So I love your approach -- it's one I try to follow too!
But ennui -- I don't have an easy answer for that one. Which is why, as you point out, it can be harder to beat. Maybe sometimes we just need a creative break? I'm all for writing schedules and not waiting for "inspiration to strike". But if we're not feeling it, we're not feeling it. That can last for long bouts, which makes it more frustrating. Hmmm, I'll have to ponder that one.
I agree that fear cascades and the fear of being not good enough is the Fear of All Fears. I deal with that by reminding myself it's the process of writing I enjoy and stop worrying about the end result. But, for me, there's another impediment that creeps in at times: ennui. And that can be harder to beat.
I always say that you have to write for yourself first. So I love your approach -- it's one I try to follow too!
But ennui -- I don't have an easy answer for that one. Which is why, as you point out, it can be harder to beat. Maybe sometimes we just need a creative break? I'm all for writing schedules and not waiting for "inspiration to strike". But if we're not feeling it, we're not feeling it. That can last for long bouts, which makes it more frustrating. Hmmm, I'll have to ponder that one.
Thanks, Graham. This was timely for me.
Thanks, Mark. Glad it was of help!