Writing: A Relay, Not A Sprint

Writing is a process that isn't meant to happen alone.

This was a hard lesson to learn because I'm a novice at reaching out to others or asking for help. But when you reach that stage in your book where everything seems like the worst mistake to ever exist, even a slight nod to affirm you're going in the right direction can give you the energy to run a thousand leagues.

In fact, a few months ago, I never knew that this phase was a thing, or that I would reach it. After all, I'd never written anything longer than 8,000 words.

When I attended an online webinar hosted by ProWriting Aid on writing science fiction, a host mentioned this stage, and many other writers attested to experiencing it. In fact, one even said, "Have you ever written a book if you haven't hated it to bits at some point?"

I was shocked and confused. Why would I hate my book? I did some soul searching and didn’t find any signs of hate. I loved my idea. I itched to let others read it and have a blast. I even thought I wasn't doing good enough if I didn't hate my book. And then, I grew afraid that I would experience it and give up on my story.

A few months later and halfway through the 3rd draft of my work-in-progress, I felt it. The fear that my characters aren't good enough, descriptions aren't vivid enough, or that my plot isn't making sense. My beloved story felt like a heap of utter trash. With each passing day, it got harder to write, so I stopped.

I spent about a month away from my book. In that time, I didn't dwell on it much, but if I got hit with random spurts of inspiration, I'd jot it down, whether it made sense or not. By the time I returned to my story, I'd forgotten most of what I'd written, and by extension, what I hated. I'd also come to terms with the parts that made me discouraged.

I figured, "Heck, if I can't figure out what I'm doing right/wrong, how to fix it, or how to make it better, I might as well let someone else help me do that."

Now, despite not wanting to show anyone else my manuscript because it's incomplete, I'm very much looking forward to having beta readers help me polish it. I really can't wait. This desire is what's pushing me to see the end of my book once again.

So many minds meld together to craft an unforgettable story: alpha readers, beta readers, critique partners, and editors. Even the random person who lends an ear to your chaotic idea could help you develop it. So, if you ever hit that stage in your writing where you come close to tossing it in the trash bin, stop, drop, and take a deep breath. You aren't running this race alone. A good session of constructive criticism or feedback from a stranger/family member/friend could help you get back on your feet.

Happy writing!

Your friendly neighbourhood editor,

Chiedozi.