Discontinue Composition: Cease Writing Regardless of Creative Peak
Writing is a creative outlet for many, but it can also be a source of stress and frustration when writers push themselves too hard. According to Robert Boice, author of "How Writers Journey To Comfort and Fluency", hyper, exaggerated states from manic and binge writing make it hard to achieve and maintain the target writing state.
Continuing to write past a daily goal can break trust with oneself. This can lead to negative effects such as burnout, resentment towards writing, and creating an unsustainable, punishing routine. Writers may develop anxiety, perfectionism, and a loss of motivation, making writing feel like a chore rather than a creative outlet.
To avoid this, writers are advised to respect a sustainable writing rhythm and establish a realistic schedule. Gina Hiatt, Ph.D. suggests ending writing sessions on a high note, while Cory Doctorow suggests stopping mid-sentence when reaching a daily word-goal to leave a rough edge for the next writing session.
Pacing oneself for the long term can help avoid pushing past regular writing goals into a manic state. Maintaining a mild pleasure state while writing is important for long-term sustainability. Jennifer Louden teaches the concept of "declaring yourself satisfied" after meeting a writing goal with a measurable time element.
Using a timer for writing sessions can make it easier to feel successful and stay focused. Finish Agent, an online Writer's Circle software system, suggests doing a little each day and ending on a high note. Rewarding oneself immediately after writing can create positive associations with the act of writing.
However, it's crucial to avoid setting the bar too high for an ongoing, healthy writing habit. Striving for perfection during overextended writing sessions may increase self-criticism and reduce enjoyment of the craft. Avoiding negative self-talk that equates writing more with worthiness helps prevent burnout and preserves motivation.
In conclusion, balancing discipline with self-compassion enables writers to maintain steady progress without turning their craft into a punishing routine that drains rather than energizes their creativity. By respecting their limits, setting realistic goals, and taking breaks, writers can foster a positive relationship with their writing and maintain their creativity for the long term.
Acting upon a balanced approach is vital for writers, cradling discipline yet nurturing self-compassion. Adhering to a realistic schedule and setting achievable writing goals prevents the emergence of a manic state, ensuring a mild pleasure as the creative flow persists. Revisiting education and self-development resources, such as the works of Robert Boice, Gina Hiatt, Cory Doctorow, and Jennifer Louden, fosters personal growth by identifying efficient techniques for sustainable writing practices. Rewarding oneself immediately after writing acts as a catalyst for establishing positive associations with the act of writing, turning it into an enriching, rather than punishing, experience.
