By Alice J. Wisler
It’s an ugly web with thick
threads. The threads don’t form
overnight, but take weeks, sometimes even months. The spider who spins them is no stranger to
you for upon careful observation, he holds a resemblance to you. However, how you
got involved in this lackluster scenario might be cause for uncertainty.
Confused? I’m talking about being complacent, no longer
eager to rush to your keyboard or notepad.
In a word, you’re stuck. You’re
feeling as bland as bran flakes.
Been there?
Perhaps you know how those threads of
this web spin on.
It’s easy to blame everyone under the
sun from the burnt toast to the demanding boss, but the truth is that when you
feel complacent, you have to get out of it.
Try these tools to access your current
dull situation and come up with a plan to escape the confining web!
Are
you feeding yourself lies? Have you
forgotten that you are valuable!? You matter! Your story and the way you can tell it is unique and only you can do
it. Fill your mind with some affirming
truths. If there are emotional,
spiritual or financial needs that have not been met, take some time to see how
they could be blocking your productivity.
Are
you jealous of other authors? How can you be a lover of words
and stories if you can’t write anymore? You must not be a real writer then. You’re no good. Look at those
other authors. They don’t have these
problems. Sound familiar? Remember
that you are only responsible for you.
Jealousy steals. Stop looking
over the fence at others and concentrate on your skills. Hone them.
Have
you forgotten where your passion is? Did you get off course? Are you
trying to write an Amish novel because your best friend has? Is your strength really in non-fiction? Recall the day you decided you wanted to write
a particular story. Then take a walk or read a much-loved book or bake a
favorite dessert. When you come back to
your keyboard or pad of paper, embrace your reason for wanting to tell your
story.
Remember, only you can detangle yourself
and get out of the dreary situation. Fight back by pursuing and offering your authentic voice! Other authors
have struggled and pulled through and so can you.
______________________________________________________________________
Alice J. Wisler is the
author of five southern novels, Rain Song (Christy Finalist), How Sweet It Is (Christy Finalist), Hatteras Girl, A Wedding Invitation and Still Life in Shadows. Since the death
of her four-year-old son, Daniel, Alice has written for various bereavement
magazines. She also teaches grief and loss writing workshops across the country
and online. Her most recent book (non-fiction) is Getting Out of Bed in the Morning, geared to offer comfort in
heartache. Her website is: http://www.alicewisler.com Each novel has
recipes in the back because Alice believes reading and eating go hand in hand.
Check out her bread in a can (from Still Life in Shadows) photos at
her blog. http://alicewisler.blogspot.com/2012/10/dont-send-fruitcake-send-bread-in-can.html Join me on Facebook and Twitter!
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