When I first began writing I constantly saw the number one advice: write everyday.
There are things that I know I have to consider. Maybe you’re so dedicated to writing that if you don’t write everyday you feel like a failure or your day was wasted away. Maybe you’re on a deadline, which in that case, you are the only one that knows the true outcome if you don’t meet that deadline.
But every writer I know or heard of does have a life outside of writing. Family, friends, work, and your own personal health are all too important to be neglected. Sometimes all you need is to set your paper and pencil down and get out of your head for a day or two.
I used to feel guilty when I didn’t even pick up a pencil for an entire week. But after I started having a family I realized what was more important.
Every one needs a vacation once in a while. That includes a vacation from your ideas.
Another major thing to consider is writer’s block. I’ve heard and read a lot of different ways to deal with writer’s block but the best way I can get back into writing or get my motivation and excitement back -and this may not work for you but it is worth a shot- is to set my writing aside for a week or months at a time and just get out of my head. Also, I know you’re not technically supposed to do this, but rereading a WIP is a great way to re-motivate yourself and get your old excitement back.
It is, however, important not to feel guilty when you set your work aside. It won’t help much if you feel guilty being away from your story. You may have people waiting on your writing- if you post on websites like Wattpad or if your public is waiting for a sequel- but ideas flow easier when you are enjoying yourself while you write.
This isn’t meant to discourage new writers from writing for the first time; just to help writers realize that it is okay to take a break every once in a while. Your work will still be there when you get back.
Idea Overload 