When to Write and When Not to Write

I have very little patience for writer's block - in anyone. I'm always inspired to write something, even if it isn't for one of the projects I'm working on at the time. However, sometimes you have to back off of writing entirely to make sure you don't create content you'll later regret. Here are some signs that this is the case.

1. You are struggling to find inspiration. I've heard this happens to people...if this is the case, don't force bad writing! (Unless the writer's block has been lasting for weeks or months. In that case, maybe forcing some material will turn the tides in your favor.)

2. You have a lot of other projects/outside work to do and the only inspiration you're having is for a new project. Make sure to take lots of notes on the ideas you're having for a new project if it's truly something you want to pursue, but don't overwhelm yourself by adding to your workload and almost immediately regretting it. This is a personal issue of mine, and it's taken practice and time to train this bad habit out of me.

3. You only feel like writing about real life. That's called journaling, not fiction writing. Not that it's bad or any less valuable, but if you're trying to create fictional content, don't let your writing get sucked too far into reality.

4. You feel like you should write. Unless it's the sole way you pay rent and buy groceries, you don't have to write. Write when you feel inspired, or when you have a cool idea for your pieces. As much as it may sometimes feel like it, you aren't contractually obligated to produce any sort of material. (Unless you are, in which case, this blog is not for you.)

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So, to recap, don't write if...

1. You are struggling to find inspiration.

2. You have a lot of other projects/outside work to do and the only inspiration you're having is for a new project.

3. You only feel like writing about real life.

4. You feel like you should write.

Now, you don't have to take my advice by any means. This is just how I personally know to back away from my laptop. Happy writing, and may writer's block avoid you! :)