Identifying the Reasons for Your Writing Inertia

Have you ever paused to consider why you might not be writing? Since you're engaging with this article, it’s likely that you have an interest in writing. Whether you write regularly, wish to start, or find yourself doing it only occasionally, there are often various factors at play.

On any given day, I may have numerous reasons that pop into my mind when I reflect on my own writing habits. My list of barriers is quite extensive and may resonate with you:

• I feel exhausted.
• Today has been particularly long and demanding.
• My day job has drained all my mental energy, leaving me too spent to write.
• I’m experiencing writer's block.
• Creative ideas seem elusive.
• I struggle to articulate my thoughts clearly.
• I question the value of writing something that may only reach a few readers.
• I ponder whether my time could be better spent elsewhere.

These are common hurdles faced by many aspiring writers. A majority of writers on this platform pursue their craft as a hobby or secondary endeavor rather than as a primary source of income. I find myself in a similar situation, and perhaps you do as well.

Generating captivating ideas can be a challenge, akin to searching for gold nuggets amidst gravel. If you're anything like me, brainstorming topics can often feel daunting.

It's a reality that only a limited audience may engage with your work. As much as I want to maintain an optimistic perspective, I often have no concrete reason to believe that more than a few people will take the time to read this article. Such thoughts can certainly stifle creativity.

Yet, despite these discouragements, here’s a crucial insight:

These concerns are inconsequential.

It doesn't matter if your day has been overwhelming, and you only have a few minutes to spare. You simply need to write.

It doesn’t matter if you feel mentally drained from work. You must write.

It doesn’t matter if coming up with ideas is difficult. You need to write.

It doesn't matter if your audience is small and your writing may feel like a personal endeavor. You just need to write.

Every writer should embrace a simple mantra: Just do it.

That’s the key takeaway. Just do it.

Here’s a little secret: when I began this article, I had no clear idea of what I would write about.

I selected a title, chose an image, and started typing.

Admittedly, I wasn’t in the mood to write. The thought of creating an article felt daunting.

But I pushed through, because that’s what being a writer demands.

Consider your writing practice like a workout regimen. Even on days when you’re fatigued and unmotivated, it’s essential to exercise your writing skills. Consistency and discipline are crucial.

Neglecting your writing muscles will lead to stagnation. They will grow weak and uninspired. Conversely, nurturing them will sharpen your writing, making it compelling and engaging—a well-crafted blend of clarity and impact.

So, I pose the question again: Why aren’t you writing?

Put down this article and start writing.

Yes, you. Begin writing.

Aaron Schnoor

In this insightful video titled "What's Keeping You From Writing with Donn King," discover the psychological barriers that hinder writers and how to overcome them.

The video "What Is Writer's Block?" delves into the phenomenon of writer's block, exploring its causes and offering strategies to combat it.