It’s all about Writer’s Block and the ways we try to fix it. It would help me tremendously both for content here and future offerings.
CURRENT NOVEL PROGRESS
TDG Draft 5 Word Count: 34,891 (rolling right along)
ASD Draft 0: 15,401
So far I’m just dumping things back in. I am trying to brainstorm as I go about what is missing and how I might add it now or down the road. It’s a tedious process, but I’m paving the way for the more creative work next month.
HAPPENING THIS MONTH
July 7th: CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: This is our accountability group, and you are more than welcome. Just email me for the Zoom link.
Don’t forget, if you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
We’ve been exploring Writer’s Pain Points, and we’ve come to the end of the list. Burnout.
I maintain there’s nothing worse than Writer’s Block. The feeling that you want to write and can’t. Similarly, Burnout happens when we’ve worked too hard, put too little into ourselves, and we just can’t do it anymore.
Writer’s burnout symptoms can quietly erode productivity and well-being. Writers may experience a deep sense of cynicism about their work, a loss of inspiration, or an inability to focus. Tasks that once felt exciting now seem tedious, and the very act of sitting down to write becomes a source of dread. Untreated, this chronic exhaustion can lead to diminished creativity, reduced output, and a complete disillusionment with the writing journey, potentially pushing a passionate writer to abandon their craft altogether.
If you’re beyond tired or totally burnt out, help is available. As a reminder, you can book a free 15-minute meeting. Consider it a mini-writing-therapy session. You don’t have to suffer in silence. Let’s connect and start finding solutions.
STRUGGLES & SUCCESSES
Here are my tips for beating burnout:
Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for activities that help you relax, recharge, and avoid exhaustion.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between your writing time and your personal life.
Take Breaks: Schedule regular breaks from writing to prevent burnout.
Find Joy in the Process: Try new things with your writing, or free write for fun.
Re-evaluate Your Goals and Priorities: Make sure that your writing goals are aligned with your overall well-being.
Did you like this series on writers’ pain points? Have some you’d like to share? Let me know! If you’re not getting my email, sign up at linseyewing.com/get-access. You’ll also find some fun writer freebies.
CURRENT NOVEL PROGRESS
TDG Draft 5 Word Count: 34,749 (back in the saddle)
We’ll take a break for a few weeks and return in July. I also have a joint stream planned for the weekend of July 12. Might want to write that one down.
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: The next meeting is Monday, July 7th, at 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 EST. This is our accountability group, and you are more than welcome. Just email me for the Zoom link.
In Other News
If you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
We need space to dream, to plan, to build castles in the air. Then we have to get those ideas on paper. It’s hard to do that with a house full of people who need you or the constant distraction of other, potentially more satisfying, activities.
Solitude is perhaps the greatest gift you can give a writer. Space, literal and figurative, to create.
But when does Solitude become Isolation? How are they different, and why is one dangerous?
Solitude is a chosen, intentional space for focused work, reflection, and creative replenishment. It’s a peaceful, productive withdrawal that allows ideas to germinate and words to flow without external distractions. Isolation, on the other hand, is an unwelcome and often prolonged state of being cut off, leading to feelings of loneliness, disconnection, and a lack of support.
I like the idea that we choose solitude, whereas isolation separates us from our support systems unwillingly.
Too many times, isolation can lead to low self-worth, writer’s block, and more devastating mental and physical health problems. It’s a serious problem, and it deserves serious help.
If you’re feeling isolated, get help now. As a reminder, you can book a free 15-minute meeting. Consider it a mini-writing-therapy session. You don’t have to suffer in silence. Let’s connect and start finding solutions.
STRUGGLES & SUCCESSES
I’ve felt isolated before, and it’s the pits. So I created an online community you can join where we encourage each other to be productive, practice self-care, and enjoy the ride. Here are some ideas to overcome isolation today.
Join a Writing Group: I stream on YouTube on Tuesdays for connection, support, feedback, and camaraderie. I also host the Creative Collective for accountability once a month. See below for your invitations to both.
Attend Writing Workshops or Conferences: I co-host the Space to Create Writing and Working retreats in French Camp, MS. There are also a multitude of online forums or social media groups dedicated to writing. I can help you find one or more (but not too many) that are right for you.
Find a Writing Buddy: I partner with other writers for accountability, support, and shared goals.
Prioritize Social Activities: I make time for social activities outside of writing life.
I’m sharing strategies to writers’ pain points here and in my weekly email. Have some you’d like to share? Let me know! If you’re not getting that email, sign up at linseyewing.com/get-access. You’ll also find some fun writer freebies.
CURRENT NOVEL PROGRESS
TDG Draft 5 Word Count: 18,292 (back from the dev. editor)
ASD Draft 0: 15,401
I’m still resting. The Daily Grind will resume in July.
We’ll take a break for a few weeks and return in July. I also have a joint stream planned for the weekend of July 12. Might want to write that one down.
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: The next meeting is Next Monday, June 2, at 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 EST. This is our accountability group, and you are more than welcome. Just email me for the Zoom link.
In Other News
Don’t forget about
Paperback Promo: Buy one, get one free on GOODBYE and LUKE. Signed and personalized for free. Shipping inside the US only. This Promotion is good through May 31!
and
LIVING WRITE: a 5-module course on creating a writing routine that works for you. Enrollment starts now and ends June 1. If you’re interested in either, contact me.
If you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
What’s the worst pain a writer has? What do you think?
We’ve discussed the pain of Rejection and Self-Doubt of our words and our worth. Those are pretty bad, but we’ve also discussed how we can overcome or at least mitigate them.
What about Writer’s Block? The dreaded blank page. Does it inspire fear? It should. It’s about the worst thing I can think of, and it happens to every writer sooner or later, for more or less time, eventually.
It’s like a sticky pit you can’t avoid. I only know ways to get out/through. No way to prevent it.
Just a reminder, if any of these issues are currently bothering you, support is available. Book a free 15-minute meeting during which we can discuss your specific challenges and explore potential strategies. Consider it a mini-writing-therapy session. You don’t have to suffer in silence. Let’s connect and start finding solutions.
Also, if you have writers’ pain points you’d like discussed or remedies to the same, I’d love to hear from you. Comment here or email me
STRUGGLES & SUCCESSES
Here are my strategies for overcoming Writer’s Block.
Be patient: Look at it as a mental break and take it. Enjoy the free time and deal with the idea only in your imagination. This is not the time to slog. Think of it as a mini vacay and treat yourself well.
Fill the well: Surround yourself with creative things. Try a paint-and-sip or pottery class or another artistic adventure. Go to movies, read books, enjoy museums, and focus on inputting creativity rather than outputting. Create. Get your hands in the garden, play with watercolors, or do some doodling. Have some dang fun, why don’t ya? And let me know how it goes.
Document: A wise person once told me, “If you can’t create, document.” That means write it down. No matter what it is. Start with the weather or your mood. Detail what you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel. You have no idea the details that will end up in your next story because you bothered to write down the light in the trees or the sound of the woodpecker.
In other words, we don’t so much as overcome Writer’s Block as wait it out. I’ve learned to enjoy the wait and to have faith that the words will return. Eventually, the pit becomes not-so sticky and not-so steep. Pretty soon, we can walk right up and out.
You can read more about my approach to Writer’s Block in this week’s email. If you’re not getting that email, sign up at linseyewing.com/get-access. You’ll also find some fun writer freebies.
CURRENT NOVEL PROGRESS
TDG Draft 5 Word Count: 18,292 (back from the dev. editor)
ASD Draft 0: 15,401
I’m still resting, but trying to mentally lean back into The Daily Grind. I can finish this draft in a month, easily, but I am busy with life in June, and not sure how much will get done before July, my next writing month.
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: The next meeting is Next Monday, June 2, at 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 EST. This is our accountability group, and you are more than welcome. Just email me for the Zoom link.
In Other News
Don’t forget about
Paperback Promo: Buy one, get one free on GOODBYE and LUKE. Signed and personalized for free. Shipping inside the US only. This Promotion is good through May 31!
and
LIVING WRITE: a 5-module course on creating a writing routine that works for you. Enrollment starts now and ends June 1. If you’re interested in either, contact me.
If you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
Probably not what you’re thinking….but we’ll see. I mean the Pain Points of Writing.
Writing is often romanticized, portrayed as a solitary pursuit of passion and creativity. While those elements are undoubtedly present, let’s be real: writing can also be painful. Not just the emotional vulnerability of putting your work out there, but the day-to-day struggles that can make this journey feel like an uphill battle.
Trigger Warning: These posts will discuss common challenges that writers face, including topics like rejection, self-doubt, and burnout. If these are sensitive areas for you, please proceed with caution. But Never Fear. I have the solution. You can book your Free 15-minute call anytime.
Writers’ pain comes in many forms:
The sting of rejection.
The gnawing self-doubt that whispers, “Is my work good enough?”
The blank page that mocks you.
The isolation of spending hours alone with your thoughts.
The financial strain of pursuing a passion that doesn’t pay the bills.
The pressure to constantly create, produce, and promote.
We don’t discuss these things; we suffer in silence, convinced that we’re the only ones struggling. But the truth is, these pain points are universal.
So I’m opening the door. We’ll be discussing our pain here and in my weekly email. If you’re not getting that, sign up on linseyewing.com under the Get Access tab. You can also email me about these subjects and/or share your own pain points.
First, let me say, there is a solution. We’ll be delving into the pain, but I promise not to leave you brokenhearted. Acknowledging our pain is the first step toward finding relief.
You’re not alone, and these struggles don’t define your worth as a writer.
If any of these issues are currently bothering you, support is available. Book your free 15-minute meeting where we can discuss your specific challenges and explore potential strategies for overcoming them. Consider it a mini-therapy session for your writing soul.
You don’t have to suffer in silence. Let’s connect and start finding solutions.
I’ve gotten to a stopping point on ASD, and I think it’s time to rest. I have several things going on in May, but it’s supposed to be a rest month from writing.
We’ll see how that goes. I’m very pleased with my current progress and I will decide in July which project to revisit.
CURRENT NOVEL PROGRESS
TDG Draft 5 Word Count: 18,292 (back from the dev. editor)
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: The next meeting is Next Monday, June 2, at 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 EST
In Other News
Don’t forget about
Paperback Promo: Buy one, get one free on GOODBYE and LUKE. Signed and personalized for free. Shipping inside the US only.
and
LIVING WRITE: a 5-module course on creating a writing routine that works for you. Enrollment starts now and ends June 1. If you’re interested in either, contact me.
If you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: The next meeting is Next Monday, May 5, at 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 EST
In Other News
It’s that time again: Paperback Promo in May and LIVING WRITE in June. You’ll be hearing more about these, but if you’re interested, contact me.
If you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
I’m reaching out with an opportunity and invitation.
As a writer and a writing coach, I’m constantly learning and evolving, and I believe there’s value in hearing other experiences. That’s why I’m conducting some marketing research this week, and I’d love for you to participate.
What’s a Marketing Research Call? Just an informal chat about your writing goals and processes.
Whether you’re a seasoned author, an aspiring novelist, a dedicated blogger, or simply someone who likes to write, your perspective is valuable. Yes, this means you.
In this 30 to 45-minute call, I’ll ask you some questions about your struggles and successes. Your insights will help me better understand the needs and experiences of writers like you, allowing me to create more relevant and supportive resources in the future.
NO pitch, pressure, or payment.
But you must book this week (up to 5 days out) to get the prize, so do it now! Space is limited.
The novel is going well. It feels like carving stone with a toothpick, but it’s coming along. I’ve practically doubled my words last week, and I want to do that again this week.
Don’t forget, I’m doing a poetry exercise and challenge this month. To participate, email me or sign up at linseyewing.com under the Get Access tab. You’ll also get freebies to help your writing journey.
Let me know what you discover and share your poems: Contact me.
CURRENT NOVEL PROGRESS
TDG Draft 5 Word Count: 18,292 (back from the dev. editor)
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: The next meeting is Monday, May 5, at 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 EST
In Other News
If you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
For National Poetry Month, I’m sharing some of my faves, both by me and others. If you have poetry to share, I’d love to read it! Send it to me and, if you want, give me permission to share it here. I’d love to have you involved.
You can read and listen to someone read the poem-a-day if you want to catch up on what’s happened this month.
I’m drafting a novel and creating some poetry. What are you writing this month? Let me know!
Don’t forget, I’m doing a poetry exercise and challenge this month. To participate, email me or sign up at linseyewing.com under the Get Access tab. You’ll also get freebies to help your writing journey.
Neither the poetry nor the novel is going like I wanted. I am, as usual, struggling to enjoy the space I am currently occupying. I wanted to draft. Now that I’m drafting, I want to research. My poetry not only is no good, it’s also like pulling teeth to get a rhyme sometimes.
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: The next meeting is Monday, May 5, at 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 EST
In Other News
If you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
Poetry is one of my favorite disciplines. I respect it, like math, for all its forms and rules, and I stand in awe of people who can accomplish it with ease. I love its ability to move, to anger, to comfort, and to incite.
To that end, I’m going to share one that moved me.
I just found it yesterday. It was the poem-a-day poem for April 7th, and it certainly spoke to me.
It’s about politics, ownership, anxiety, and art. It’s called High Stakes by Yesenia Montilla.
You can read and listen to someone read the poem-a-day if you want to catch up on what’s happened this month.
Last week I shared my favorite poem. This week I’ll give you one of mine. Keep your expectations low.
And remember, I’m doing this for the exercise and a challenge. If you want to participate, you can get tips at linseyewing.com by signing up under the Get Access tab. You’ll also get fun freebies there to help your writing journey.
DAY 1: April 1, 2025 POEM linsey ewing
Perhaps I’ll write an Acrostic. Of course, they’re Easier than Most forms.
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: The next meeting has been changed to Monday, APRIL 14 at 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 EST
In Other News
If you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
Here are all the tools from the toolkit: Feel free to revisit each post to see how I do it. If you’re not getting emails, you’re not getting my tips and tricks designed for you. Sign up at linseyewing.com under the Get Access tab.
Handwriting practice, or Morning Pages, every day.
Prepping your space and your materials to write.
Tracking your progress, no matter how small.
Writing with abandon.
Revising/editing with determination.
If you’re just starting and this is overwhelming, let me help.
April is one of my favorite months. I’m not sure why. Maybe it’s the return to normal after my birthday month (though I am, of course, still accepting presents) or maybe it’s that Spring has finally Sprung and everything is in bloom (achoo!). Whatever the reason, I have a definite way to celebrate.
Poetry.
Did you notice your response?
Was it fear? disgust? an eye roll? or did you sit up straighter, lean in, perk up?
Poetry can do all those things and more, and that’s part of why I love it.
REVELATIONS AND RESISTANCE
Let me be clear: I am no poet.
I’m a clumsy one at best, but I apparently have no fear or shame, because I am going to share some of mine with you as well as some of my favorites written by others, so that you may know what good poetry looks like.
I’m celebrating by writing a poem every day. That’s in addition to my new novel draft. Still. They don’t have to be perfect. I just want to enjoy the journey. I won’t be sharing all I write, but who knows? Maybe something good will come up.
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: The next meeting has been changed to Monday, APRIL 14 at 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 EST
In Other News
TODAY ONLY! (April 1)
No joke! I’m offering the Paperback Promo (buy 1 get 1) and early access to LIVING WRITE for ONE DAY ONLY! Email/text/contact me for more details. You do not want to miss this!
If you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
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