I’m not the writer’s block type. If I sit down to write, the creative process takes over. The first rush of prose may not be my best work, but the words appear on the page. I struggle with a different sort of trip up: writer’s avoidance. And I discovered I’m not the only one who finds reasons not to write. For me, it’s as bad and possibly worse than writer’s block. Right now, I’m getting these words across my screen thanks to an online writing session. That’s the good part. The not-so-good part? The last time I sat down to write a blog or more of my book was one week ago at the same writing session.
At Medium Digest, an online list of personal stories, I discovered an article about Writing Avoidance by author Lisa Brown. She begins by defining avoidance as “the action of keeping away from or not doing something.” I’m 100% certain that’s what I’m dealing with, but I can’t seem to get to the root of it. I could rationalize that I’m throwing myself in different directions right now. I have short film projects that came to fruition this year including collaborating with a writer/director on rewrites to a short script throughout the summer months. I’m in the midst of starting and stopping all kinds of projects, like reorganizing my files and piles of paper. I make progress and then completely stall out. And, I’m anxious about my lack of daily direction. The end result? No desire to write!
According to Ms. Brown, avoidance is fear, expressed. Okay, I can’t deny that one. But my fear is not fear of criticism since I’ve had positive remarks of my first two books, news articles, and papers in college. In general. I’m not afraid to write or publish as she states, “our words languish in a drawer or a hard drive folder.” She classifies writing avoidance as three types: Situational, Protective, and Substitution.
Situational is avoidance of the environment and tools we use to write, whether computer or notebook. I’m totally guilty of this one. I avoid pulling up my documents on my computer. If I open my laptop, the one I use for my blogs and books, I’m committed to writing! So, I avoid it! But the end result is further anxiety because the projects call to my subconscious. I liken my writing avoidance to preparing tax forms until the 11th hour. Yet there’s no 11th hour on my projects. It’s all on me to commit or not since there’s no deadline other than self-imposed.
Protective is a way of avoiding because we don’t have the perfect setup. Well, this is part of my problem in that drafted paragraphs and chapters of my book are scattered in various notebooks spanning several years. I need to gather all of these disparate pieces of papers and bring them together in a cohesive manner. The thought of the exercise totally drains me because I jump forward into wondering how they all fit together for the story.
Substitution involves distraction. Well, I think that’s always the case. Whether I’m writing or not, I’m interrupting my work by checking into the endless avalanche of emails. Sometimes I need the break. I used to employ the Pomodoro method of writing for 25 minutes and taking a five-minute break and then repeating. But I’m not sure what techniques or strategy really works for me. When drafting my first two books, I didn’t’ employ any technique. Now I feel compelled to do so because I’m not making any progress otherwise.
Remedies for the three avoidance types include checking in with other writers for accountability, not seeking perfection, and making a plan. Well, I’ve employed all of these at various times. And now I still wonder what’s really at the root cause of avoidance. Part of it, realistically, is the lack of successful marketing for my first two books. Selling books is really hard work unless you’re a best-selling author. I don’t have the drive and energy to keep up a continuous flow of ads and promos. I used to enjoy author events even if I sold a handful of books. But now? It’s hindering my desire to continue writing because I’m looking at the endgame of selling few books.
Another issue leading to avoidance is that my third novel, a work in progress, takes place up to 60 years in the future. I don’t’ know how to approach the technological advances. I don’t’ have the innate desire to stay on top of all the pervading AI applications that shape our world. And environmentally speaking? Who knows what we’ll have for energy in 2075? Yes, I know I should focus on the characters. But it’s still a tough call with all the other aspects of the novel.
I’m dealing with being overwhelmed and apathetic toward my story. It’s a dangerous combo, and I need to plow through it. So, what’s the answer to writing avoidance? The obvious answer: Just write, even if for an hour a day.
I’ll get back to the writing on a regular basis. I know I will. I’ve been on a break for too long! It’s time, and time waits for no on one. Meanwhile, I’d welcome hearing from other writers on how you combat writing avoidance, and most importantly, win the battle!