When Writing Feels Slow

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In this episode of the Resilient Writers Radio Show, we dive deep into one of the most common struggles writers face: the feeling that their book is taking forever to complete. If you've ever caught yourself thinking "I'm too slow" or "this book will never be finished," this episode is for you.

The Story We Tell Ourselves

About 80% of the time, the feeling that our writing is "too slow" is simply a story we tell ourselves. This unhelpful narrative often stems from comparing ourselves to other writers, particularly indie romance or cozy mystery authors who publish multiple books per year. 

But here's the truth: it's not about the most words—it's about the right words for your project.

Why Books Take Time

Writing a book is fundamentally about becoming the writer you need to be to finish that particular book. Sometimes this transformation requires more time for deep thinking and problem-solving. 

As Alice Munro famously said, some of her best writing happened while staring out her kitchen window—the thinking process is just as valuable as the actual typing.

The Perfectionism Trap

Many writers slow themselves down by trying to perfect each scene before moving on. This approach ignores a fundamental truth: revision is a necessary part of the creative process. 

Your brain literally cannot hold all the elements needed for a perfect scene simultaneously—there are simply too many craft elements to juggle at once.

Attempting to write perfect first drafts is not only impossible but counterproductive. You cannot create work that makes you immune to criticism or judgment. 

Art is subjective—just look at the one-star reviews for Ernest Hemingway on Amazon. The goal isn't perfection; it's creating the best work you can right now.

The Two-Brain Problem

Your creative brain (which gets the draft down) and your editorial brain (which scans for mistakes) work differently. Trying to use both simultaneously is the slowest possible way to write a book. 

As Sir Terry Pratchett (RIP) said, "The first draft is just you telling yourself the story."

Practical Solutions

When progress genuinely feels slow, the only practical solution is more consistent time with your book. Books are built through consistency—20 minutes here, an hour there, paragraph by paragraph, scene by scene.

Consider these strategies:

• Increase your writing frequency from twice to three or four times per week
• Schedule writing retreats or long weekend sessions
• Use small pockets of time throughout your day
• Take temporary breaks from volunteering commitments
• Write during lunch breaks or before the household wakes up

Embracing Your Writing Pace

Every writer is different. Some produce 1,200 words in 45 minutes, others write 250 words in the same time—and both are perfectly valid. The key is learning to accept the writer you are rather than suffering because you think you should be different.

Remember: you are an artist whose medium is words, and art takes time. That's not just okay—it's necessary.

Resources mentioned: DIY Writing Retreat Guide