Monday, October 15, 2012

Climbing

It's a slow climb back.

Once you've let yourself get away from writing, that is. I start, I stop. I tell friends I'm working on a book and then wonder if I really am if I open my computer only once or twice a week.

Here's my problem. I'm rereading my WIP so I can get back into my character's head. I need to feel her life again and understand how she's going to act when I throw some conflict her way. I want to make sure she doesn't get all whiny or too angry where I won't like her any more or act like a sap and make me embarrassed for her. I have to like her. I have to respect her. I want to enjoy her journey into understanding why her life has turned out the way it did and discover God's plans for her.

My journey back into finishing what I started isn't easy. I haven't set a time frame but I hope by spring I have finished another book to be sent out to agents and publishers.

After all, it's what we do, isn't it? As much as I whine or get angry or act like a sap or do embarrassing things--I'll continue to write.  It's God's plan for my life right now.

Is there an area in your life you're having a hard time pushing forward?

20 comments:

Karen Lange said...

I think one of my greatest challenges is the self discipline it takes to be a writer. Other things seem to crowd in, and I am working to set more time aside to write. Glad you are keeping at it; you're inspiring me. :)

Cindy R. Wilson said...

Oh yes, I felt the same about my current manuscript. It's hard to get back into the swing of things. I know you can do it, though, Terri! I'm rooting for you :)

Julie Jarnagin said...

It can be tough. Right now, I'm just tired of my story. I'm just fighting to get through this last round of revisions.

Sally Wessely said...

Yep, just staying organized is hard right now. We are in the middle of a move. I think when I come out of the denial I will do better. I am ready to move, but the job seems so overwhelming.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

I love reading through an old manuscript. I love getting reaquainted with my characters with the idea of finishing at last. Best of luck with your writing.

Sista In Arms Lxx said...

Loved reading this post :)

Anonymous said...

Keeping up the momentum on any project can be tough especially if it seems to be taking more time than expected, or the finish line is not even in view. I am just getting back into writing, photography, and I am beginning a coaching company. I'm not even sure where they will so my steps are all by faith right now!

T. Powell Coltrin said...

It won't take much for your love for writing to join with the task of writing, again.

Great Grandma Lin said...

I write regularly but exercising and losing weight is where I fall down....

Jan Cline said...

Social Media!!! AGH! I know I have to do it - I want to want to do it. I have a book coming out that must be marketed. It's all part of the writing life, but so difficult for me. I have a plan to make a plan though, so I guess I just keep pushing through like you said.
Blessings!!

Lisa Jordan said...

Everyone goes through different seasons in their lives. You're going through the early spring after a winter of hibernation. Baby steps and find joy in every step in the journey. God has called you for His purpose. He will walk alongside you faithfully.

Nancy said...

Yes, but there are so many, I just can't think of one to tell you. My life right now is a series of "getting back on the horse and going on."

I have read your blog for a long time and I am sure that you will get your story done and that it will be good. Do you know that I would have given anything to be in one of those anthologies that you appear in? I think you have a great writing career. That's what I think. And I know that God will help you to use your gift in an even greater manner.

Cheryl Wright said...

Having trouble pushing forward writing my book(s) on a regular basis. I tend to work on my book(s), now and then and usually in a writing fit. But I feel as if that is it is supposed to be, for now at least. I don't want to force myself into another writer's idea of a routine that may not be practical for me or authentic to myself or my writing rhythms.

Kathleen said...

It's life's story: 2 steps forward; 1 step back. Progress in my life always comes in fits & spurts. I've actually come to enjoy it. Nothing is boring as a result.

Stacy Henrie said...

Love this post, Terri! Good luck with the climb. Like you, it helps me to know this is what God wants me to do!

Nikki (Sarah) said...

so glad you're back on the climb. I love hearing your thoughts on the writing journey. You always inspire me. Enjoy the journey and I'm glad to be on a small part of it.

Tammy Theriault said...

hard time pushin forward or just a hard time keeping up?? that's what it feels like for me. great post!

new follower, nice to meet u :-)~

Julie Gillies said...

I think we have all experienced a season where we just have to push ourselves, Terri. You know, I was just reading your tagline (which I love), and I think it's a good thing to keep in mind. Your writing does leave a fingerprint on the heart.

Keep going, girl! :-)

Jessica Nelson said...

Yep, I was having trouble with writing but hope to snap back into action now! Good luck with yours. :-)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

I'm having difficulty writing as well. I opened the document for book 3 of my trilogy and, like you, read the chapters.

Picking up the dropped story thread isn't easy. I'm not sure it's what I'm supposed to do.