Why Am I Avoiding Working on My WIP?

/ John W. Howell

 

Photo by Christian Erfurt on Unsplash

Hi SEers. John with you today. I had a sudden awakening before writing this post, and it made me feel somewhat uncomfortable. I think I can describe it but bear with me. To try, I will give you a hypothetical entry in my diary. (I really don’t have a diary, but it makes it a little easier to introduce my situation.)

Well, dear diary, here I am with over 35,000 words of my next book. What’s that? I think you ask a good question, “Why am I writing in a diary and not in the book?” You are very wise, Dear Diary. I wish I had an answer.

Now I turn to you, SEers. You see, it has been a week since I last made any headway on the draft of my book. It looks like I might have a problem with motivation.  How do I know that, you ask? Okay, I’ll give you an example. Last Monday, I sat down and wanted to write one thousand words. Before I knew it, I had raised a situation in the story that required some research. Nothing heavy, so I decided to do it right then. Three hours later, I was still reading about the different types of gold mining. Believe me; no one gives a rip about the different ways to mine gold. Do I hear you say, ” That spending a few hours on research is not a bad thing?”  Wait until you read what else.

I decided that because the afternoons are so hot, I would do some needed work in the yard in the morning. There was a sage bush that needed trimming. So, on Tuesday morning, I went at it. It took me until lunchtime to get it cut, and all the wood put away for pick up. Then what did I do after lunch? I wrote a blog post, did e-mails, and visited some blogs. Before I knew what was happening, it was four o’clock—no way could I sit down and write on my WIP. I was just too tired.

Digging trenches to reroute downspout water took up Wednesday morning. Then there was tending to the blog, answering e-mails, visiting other’s blogs, and exercising. By the time I finished all of that, it was time to hit the relax button.

I had planned a big writing day on Thursday, but time got away from me. By the time I mowed the lawn and finished my exercise, e-mails galore waited for my attention.  There was also a post to write for the blog.

So here we are on Friday. I haven’t written a word on my draft, and I have promised that maybe I’ll get to it on Saturday. But, of course, I promised myself the same thing all week.

Now I ask you, SEers.  Am I avoiding working on my WIP?

There is no need to answer that question. It is evident that, for some reason, I am avoiding my usual daily work on my manuscript. I don’t have a problem writing blog posts or short stories. But, is it that I do not want to finish my book? Do I have some belief that the story won’t be good? Do I think my career as a novelist is over? Whaaaaaaaaaaah.

I might be overreacting slightly, but has this kind of thing ever happened to you? Let me know in the comments if you ever had the feeling that you would almost do anything in place of writing on your current manuscript. Also, if you have had that feeling, what did you do about it?

I hope you all have a super weekend.

 

149 thoughts on “Why Am I Avoiding Working on My WIP?”

  4. Pingback: Why Am I Avoiding Working on My WIP? – Nelsapy

  6. Hi John, I do have sympathy for your predicament. I have spent the last two days working on my children’s book instead of on my adult novel. I am 46,000 words in and need to get the jolly thing finished by the end of the year so why am a hopping around doing other things? I don’t know, I just seem a little all over the place at the moment and I seem to get to a certain point in my novel (there are four on the go) and then I jump to another project. So silly! If you have any advice for book hopping, I’m all ears.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    • You asking for my advice for book hopping is like asking caffeine addict the secret to quitting drinking coffee. I believe you should dedicate yourself to boredom. By that I mean tie yourself to one of the current WIPs and finish the damn thing. That is my advice from a dilettante.

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

  7. Avoiding my WIP is the only reason I get any housework done. You’re not alone. Eventually I will just force myself till ‘the spirit moves me’, and I get some inspiration going. I usually end ip deleting the forced stuff, but it serves its purpose.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

  9. I think I can write, John. In fact, I’m pretty good. But every time I sit down to prove it, I notice that the whole house, even the oven, needs cleaning. No solutions here. Thanks for allowing me this opportunity to write. Now, I see a few dust bunnies.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

  11. Great post, John. Yes, I’ve been there. That’s when I work on something else or not write and allow myself to think about it. Usually if I go back with fresh eyes later, sometimes much later, it flow again. I hope that inspiration finds you again.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

  12. Honestly John, you’re not the only one going through this. Right now I’m researching on self publishing apps and templates but haven’t even started working on actually writing chapter one…I even designed my cover, I feel like I’m starting backwards because I don’t know which way I should start. Is this writers block? I’m not sure but when it comes to my blog post I’m definitely able to get my point across and post write away. My book it’s like the visuals are there I just need to start writing and see where it takes me.. so honestly I’m scheduling reminders in my calendar to help me with setting a schedule and time to write. I’ll see how that goes, for now I hope you’re able to get back to your book. Good luck

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

  13. This happens to me often. I’m also a writer, of software at least and has been working on a digital product for much longer than anticipated. I have no problem completing work on short term projects and for clients. Working from home I also convince myself that I need to clean the house, go for a walk (because exercise) or get something done, which in hindsight wasn’t important at all. Working on my own WIP I feel that I’m perhaps trying to get it too perfect, because it’s mine, I also get bored quickly or lose confidence or get scared that the software won’t be used or will fail. For now at least I don’t know how to get past this, other than going to my local cafe, putting my head down and working, getting something done, doesn’t matter how small. It sounds like we are in the same boat, would love to chat via email, perhaps we can motivate each other

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

    • The idea of too perfect can indeed slow things down. I don’t do any editing until I get the first draft finished. I have noticed that I have been doing a little editing so maybe that is one of the things getting in the way. Best wishes on figuring out a path forward on your WIP. Maybe just letting it sit will help. I’m not going near mine for another week. Thanks for the comments, Andre. 😊

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

  14. My problem is never my WIP, John. My problem is always not know what to blog about. I read such inspirational/funny/thoughtful/useful blogs that raise so many answers/ questions/ other blogs (prime example here!) and yet my mind is blank as soon as the idea, ” i will write a blog”, hits me. I sit, I muse, I struggle to find anything interesting to say – and then I hide in my WIP. Sigh!!

    Liked by 6 people

    Reply

    • Well, I think I would like to hide in my WIP. As far as blogging is concerned I found it very useful to set up a schedule of subjects to cover each posting day. Like Saturday is Stream of consciousness. Sunday is Views of the Neighborhood. Monday is Top Ten Things Not to Do Etc. This makes me stay aware of the subjects and then it becomes a matter of finding things under those subjects to write about. Give it a try. I’ll even give you a top for Mondays. Living a Barrow Monday. (You could even throw in a coffee or tea recipe here.Yes you would have to write it on Sunday but no one has to know) I hope this helps and then for the comment, Judity.

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

  16. John, I am right there with you.Everything and anything seems to intrude on the hours I want to set aside for writing, especially now in the warm days of summer. If there isn’t an obligation calling me then there are carefree hours when I can just bask in the warmth of summer and escape for some much needed down time. I hate that I have to feel guilty about those hours/breaks, but as a writer I do. Right now I am juggling a WIP, a finished ms in need of shopping to agents, and learning curve on how to find an agent and write good query letter. I’m not sure I’ll ever figure it out!

    Liked by 6 people

    Reply

    • I’ve been there on the query road. It is a tough one and the key to to keep sending them out no matter how many rejects you get. The quesry letter is important but the most important thing is to query agents who specialize or are interested in your genres. You need to visit each agency and then fine the ONE agent who sound like you. It is a road that I finally ran out of energy jogging on. I suddenly realized if I had an agent and publisher my life would not be any better. I stopped trying plain and simple. I thin an agent would be just the ticket for your work. Good luck. I also think my angst is in part due to summer stuff. 😁

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

  17. It’s summer, John, so don’t feel bad about the ms. There’s too much to do and too many distractions. That’s why I love miserable winter weather. My downfall is blogging, which unfortunately isn’t seasonal. Good luck with getting back on track. Happy Writing!

    Liked by 6 people

    Reply

  18. It’s funny, but I’m going through exactly the same thing right now, John. I’ve done all the research I need to do to get started on my new book, I’ve written a loose outline that reads fascinating (at least to me), and finished my character diamonds. But somehow, I can’t get started. In my case, I believe it’s fear. It’s my first time writing a crime thriller, and I’m afraid to get it wrong. In your case, maybe you have too much on your plate right now and need time away from writing.

    Liked by 6 people

    Reply

  19. What a relevant post, John. And from all the comments, you are not alone. I blame it partly on summer and extra chores and fun that come with warmer weather. But, let’s face it. Sometimes it just isn’t happening for us. I think the one biggest and most important factor is to remember the passion you had when you wrote your first story. It’s that passion that will carry us through the slumps, those times when writing becomes a chore and not a joy. Thank you for bringing this up!

    Liked by 7 people

    Reply

  20. Oh can I empathize with your situation, John. I’ll sit down to start writing on the laptop and notice, “hmm, I need to cut my fingernails” and as I pull the clippers out, realize “egad, that drawer needs to be cleaned.” And as I’m cleaning out the drawer, I realize the whole bathroom could use a good scrubbing and well…you get the idea. Six hours later I’m exhausted, haven’t typed a single word and decide a really have nothing to say at this point. Maybe an ice cold beer from the fridge has some inspiration/motivation. Or maybe I should just review my NetFlix queue. Have a good weekend. Let me know what you do to get your mojo back.

    Liked by 7 people

    Reply

  22. You’re being too hard on yourself! There’s lots going on in the ‘real’ world – home, garden and abroad -and there’s just a little niggle there in the writing that you haven’t worked out yet. I walk away and start on all of those tasks that have stacked up waiting for my attention. At some point, the writer resurfaces and ideas form while you’re doing something mindless like weeding, or as you wind down at night, and that urge to write re-asserts itself. Coming back to it fresh, you’ll see the hurdle that needs to be cleared and you’ll be off again. I’d be more worried if you didn’t have the odd angst moment because those moments reflect your commitment to your work and the need for all of it to be of the highest standard.
    Of course, if you have someone you trust who can read what you’ve done so far and then give you honest feedback, that might be all you need to set you back on the right track to happiness.

    Liked by 6 people

    Reply

  23. I’ve been doing variations of your week for the last month or more, John. I can’t seem to either find the time (though I’m here writing this comment) or the inclination to work on my WIP.
    I’m blaming summer 🙂

    Liked by 7 people

    Reply

  25. While this has happened to me, it’s rare. I get to the middle slog and things come to a screeching halt. This is why I started writing two at a time a few years ago. When one stalls out, the other one is welcoming. It’s like a relay race. With a full-time job, I’m usually the one lamenting lost writing time. I also dive into research, but consider it a productive use of time. I’m sure this is only temporary and hope you jump back in soon.

    Liked by 6 people

    Reply

  26. I’m not the guy to answer that with my steady decline of writing. But, I am interested in your exercise routine. This is from a guy who up to 2020 was exercising quite regularly: walking, bands, Aqua jogging. Something happened in ‘20 to make me get very sidetracked (giving up) and my body feels/shows it. Talk about motivation, I need a kick in the butt. What’s your routine, John?

    Liked by 7 people

    Reply

  27. Your questions and concerns are all too familiar, John. When I’m in such a “funk” (as in right now), I make friends with it and stop pushing and try to listen — to life. I’ve noticed the song of birds, the pounding of local carpenters, the whispers of the wind . . . more than I have in a long time. It doesn’t solve the “funk” but it brings a smile more than a frown. I’ve concluded that sometimes we just need to ride the wave until it reaches the shore. You’ll forever be a writer, worry not. 😊

    Liked by 9 people

    Reply

  30. You sound like I’ve been sounding a lot lately. It’s not normal for me – you only have to look at my list of published books to see that – but lately I’ve been having serious procrastination or lack of writing motivation issues.

    Liked by 5 people

    Reply

  32. Well, I can’t work on my manuscipt in the mornings as there are daily tasks to complete. In the afternoons, it gets too hot in my study at the moment. Evenings is for family things.

    So that’s why I can’t get on with mine.:o

    Liked by 7 people

    Reply

  33. You sound like me this week. I still have yard work to finish. I don’t know why we punish ourselves for stepping away from our WIPs. Since we all do it, it must be necessary. With deadlines looming, I find taking the old iPad to the coffee shop helps. Maybe a write a little poetry, a few extra blog posts, read for a while. It all works. Let’s the little gray cells ferment on the story without actually having to think about.

    Liked by 7 people

    Reply

    • Thank you, L.K. I think your advice is very wise. I have published six books and this is the first time I have had any concerns about progress. Since I do 7 posts a week on my blog I think I’m going to give myself permission to think on this a while. Thank yu again for your advice. 😁

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

  34. Yep. Been there, John, and it’s an awful feeling. Somehow you’re convinced you’ve totally lost your mojo, which only makes the funk worse. When I say it to my husband, he says, “Honey, this is part of your process. Don’t you know that by now?” He’s right. I think all creatives deal with funk from time to time. Don’t worry. You’ll be just fine. 😀

    Liked by 9 people

    Reply

    • Thank you, Sue. You have a very understanding husband for sure. Your comments reminded me that I’m still doing blogs etc so my mojo is not gone. I just think I’m dealing with a story problem that will eventually be solved. Until then though it’s no fun. Thanks, again. 😁

      Liked by 3 people

      Reply

  35. I feel ya, John. I have been working on my current WIP for two years! It isn’t that I don’t believe in the story because I do. I, too, had to do some research (which I hate), and it kind of sucked some of the umph out of me. Since then, I’ve been avoiding writing it. I did, however, write a short story connected to the series, so it’s not that I don’t want to write that genre. I just keep putting other work in front of it. :-/ So, now I’m trying a new strategy. I’m going to share this WIP with my critique group which will force me to spit out two new chapters every session. Hopefully, that gets me out of whatever resistance I have toward writing it. 🙂

    Liked by 8 people

    Reply

    • That is a great idea, Yvette. I will figure this out too. I have to tell you. I felt better after I threw my problem out to the SE world. Maybe just screaming about it makes the problem better too. We shall see. Thanks for sharing. 😁

      Liked by 3 people

      Reply

  36. I agree with Dan. Not that I know anything at all about writing a book but I feel there must be times where you just have to step away from it. When your frame of mind is in a better place, it will flow again. And… is there a gun pointed to your head pushing you to finish it yesterday? I could have sworn you write because you enjoy it…

    Liked by 7 people

    Reply

  37. Pingback: #ReblogAlert – This Week on #StoryEmpire | The Write Stuff

  38. It has not only happened to me, John, but I’m in the MIDDLE of an extended period of making very little, if ANY, progress on my current WIP. This is a first for me, and I haven’t yet decided if it’s true writer’s block, or if it’s just that I’m trying to do WAY too many things at once! Between my 2 monthly wildlife talks (which take a ton of time to put together), deferred maintenance on our house, and extensive on-going yard clean up & replanting from all the hurricane damage way back when, writing seems to be the last thing I have time for. I also think part of my problem is that I’m really not sure about the direction I want this book to take. In fact, that might be the biggest part of it.

    So, to answer your question, yep, it’s happening to me right now. The good news is, I decided to stop analyzing things so much. After FOUR WEEKS of not writing a word, I sat down yesterday and wrote 2,000. 😁 It was enough to complete a chapter, and now I’m hoping I’m over the funk that’s kept me from my writing. Yes, I still have a ton of other things to do, so my time is limited, but my goal is to write at least something every single morning, before I get distracted by the day’s events. Will let you know how that works. Great post, John! 🙂

    Liked by 8 people

    Reply

  40. Pingback: Why Am I Avoiding Working on My WIP? | Legends of Windemere

  42. I’m not in a good position to give advice. All I have at the moment are work(s) in progress, but I know something about projects that go into the ditch. For what it’s worth, give yourself permission not to write. Then, not writing is not a problem, it’s just something you deserve to (not) do. If your WIP is like the projects of mine that have gone off the rails, it will call you back into action. Note: this technique does not work with women – do not give yourself permission to ignore the Producer.

    Liked by 6 people

    Reply

  46. I’m in the same spot, John. I’ve even questioned whether or not I want to write again. I went through the same last year and I blamed it on COVID. But I’ve gone through similar times and always pulled myself out of it. I’ve never finished the first draft of a book when I originally planned. However, I always think that the finished product is stronger for me having waited.

    I often waste time on social media (and yes I can go down rabbit trails with research). I’m also reading more this year, so instead of writing, I have my nose buried in a book.

    Wish I had the answer but maybe we can commiserate together.

    Liked by 7 people

    Reply

  48. Yep I am right there with ya! I feel like every time I do have time I fill it with something else. However I shut down completely and don’t write anything. Instead I fill my time with looking at other social media instead. I had to finally just pull myself out of my fear of starting over my PB and force myself to think on the fly for a paid critique so it pushed me to come up with a new concept. Now I seem to be back on track and trying at least to write again. Sometimes the task at hand just seems so daunting and overwhelming I just shut off. I have to get out of my comfort zone and push out the first horrible draft and then it starts the creative juices flowing again.
    Critique groups seem to work for me, they are mutually rewarding. However when I drop money on a damn great PB author/Illustrator I feel like I’m back in high-school and my final project is due the next day so I make it happen.
    Just my humble thought process.

    Liked by 10 people

    Reply

  49. Pingback: Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF | Fiction Favorites

  50. I thought for a moment that you were talking about me there, John. I have been trying to feel enthusiastic about my own WIP, and failing spectacularly. So much so, that I have almost convinced myself that the story is wrong and that I need to think of something else!
    I wonder what other writers do when life simply will not encourage them to write?

    Liked by 9 people

    Reply

We'd love to know what you think. Comment below.

Please log in using one of these methods to post your comment:

Gravatar
WordPress.com Logo

You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Twitter picture

You are commenting using your Twitter account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Facebook photo

You are commenting using your Facebook account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Cancel

Connecting to %s