Serious Wednesday: The Break Thru...

I saw online today where a woman felt God called her to write on a certain subject, but the words wouldn't come. She was struggling whether to give it up and questioning whether she'd mistook her feelings. 

Should she give up the idea? What to do?

Much like my post last Wednesday, most, if not all, writers, come to that stage at times. It's called a plateau where nothing comes, no next word, no next idea, no next scene, and so and so. It's a most miserable place to be. 

But you can...

Here are a few ideas of what may help you break free from that plateau:

• Reread what writing you've done. Sometimes that will prompt you on to another thought.
• Talk to another writer, your critique partner, or your editor. If they have the experience, they'll be able to provide the encouragement you need to move on. They may even have a suggestion or two that will get you through the tunnel of darkness into your writing light.
• Take a break. If you're overwhelmed, tired, stressed, etc., some rest will renew your strength mentally and physically. 
• Try going at that writing project a different way. Do some research on a particular topic you're bringing into your writing. Make a list of different items in your work. What about the plot? Check to see if it's progressing the way you need it to go? Check out your characters and see if they're holding true to your initial creation of them. Do they need improvement? There are all kinds of ways to go through your work. You'll find it will be stronger.
• Try working on something new. Sometimes when you come back to the original work, you'll feel more relaxed and stronger to have a go at it.
• Allow yourself to take a break. Life happens, and nothing is more important than keeping your sanity and health, both physically and spiritually.
• Last, pray. Trust God when you don't know how to proceed, what to write, which way to turn. He has your roadmap, and will not leave you stranded. You'll get through this just as I did last week. You'll be all the better for the pause in your writing life! 

The Sun Will Rise!