As writers, we’ve all been there – staring at a stubborn chapter, a tricky character, or a plot that refuses to cooperate. It can feel like running into a brick wall, over and over, until you start wondering if there’s any point to your suffering. One of the questions I hear most often is: How do you know when to give up?
The short answer: you don’t.
Let me explain.
The Difference Between Pausing and Giving Up
There’s a world of difference between taking a strategic pause and giving up on a project entirely. Sometimes, the best thing you can do when you’re stuck is to set the problem aside and move on to something else. Work on a different chapter. Develop a side character. Rewrite a scene you’ve already drafted. By shifting your focus, you allow your brain the space it needs to tinker in the background.
It’s amazing what happens when we give ourselves permission to step away. Solutions have a way of bubbling to the surface when we least expect them. Maybe it’s during a walk, in the shower, or even while you’re cooking dinner – but those “aha” moments often come when we’re not actively forcing them.
Never Quit, Even When It Feels Hard
I had a teacher in grad school who used to say, There are two kinds of writers: those who get published and those who quit. It’s a simple concept, but it’s stuck with me because it’s so true. If you keep going, you will eventually figure it out.
But I’m not here to minimize how hard it can feel. Writing a book takes time – a lot of it. First novels, in particular, often take years. If you’re struggling to finish, I want to reassure you: you’re not behind. You’re not failing. You’re right on track.
When I was eight years into writing my debut novel, I hit a wall. I even wrote a blog post at the time saying I’d give myself two more years, but if I hit a decade, I’d walk away. Thankfully, that was the year things started to click.
The lesson? Sometimes, it takes a while for the story to reveal itself. Keep showing up. Keep writing. You’re closer than you think.
You’ve got this.
The beauty of writing is that it’s never just about the words on the page. It’s about discovery – of the world, of others, and of ourselves. When we hit roadblocks, whether it’s with a chapter, a character, or our own inner critic, it’s not a sign to stop. It’s a reminder to pause, reflect, and keep going.
So if you’re feeling stuck, frustrated, or unsure of your next step, remember this: every writer has been there. You’re not alone. Take a breath, pivot if you need to, and trust that the answers will come.
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