Grab a Cup of Coffee

Today was an interesting day on my writing journey. I realized yesterday that I've been writing too much for other people lately. This sounds contradictory, since writers are supposed to write for readers, but it makes sense, really. What I'm trying to say is that I'm such a people pleaser sometimes that I was having trouble getting anything written because I was so worried about people liking it. I wanted my critique group to enjoy it so much that I was afraid to just let go and write for fear that it wouldn't be good enough.

Then I was reminded that I started writing as a way to tell myself a story. I remembered how much I used to enjoy sitting on the couch with a notebook when I was a teenager and just writing, writing, writing. There was no pressure then. There were just ideas and empty time and pages to be filled. I loved writing and it wasn't something I had to put on my to-do list.

I think it's good that I'm maturing in my writing. I think it's good that I'm trying to slow down and pay attention to how each scene advances the plot. I also think that I should remember that this started out as something fun. I think God will be more glorified by it if I enjoy being creative and reflecting His image with my creativity.

So go grab a cup of coffee, your computer, or maybe even a notebook for old times sake. Get your chapter's basic plot in your head and then tell yourself a story. Write for fun. You'll be surprised at how much more natural your story sounds when you're enjoying it. =)