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by Unknown's avatar

Hi Jim,

 

I have about three books in publication and… honestly, I have some ideas for other stories that I think about do well, but I spend so much time writing that I’m starting to feel like it’s consumed my life. I don’t want to let some really good ideas go down the drain, but there are other things I want to do and I have a family that I want to spend more time with. Have you ever thought about calling it quits or is there a time when you think you’ll retire the keyboard?

Thanks,
Ned

Hi Ned,

Spending time with and taking care of your family is the most important thing you could do. It should never take back burner to anything, even your writing. If you believe that your writing is interfering with your life, then indeed, it may be time to hang it up.

I ran into this issue a while back and decided that the best time to write would be when I was on break at my other job, or after everyone else goes to sleep. That way it doesn’t affect family time. I will say that devoting your time to writing can and will take a toll on your health as well.

I’ve honestly thought about calling it quits many times, but I don’t know that I ever will. I am planning on taking a much-needed long break after the next one is published. Perhaps that might be a good compromise? If you’re worried about missing some inspiration for a good story, then keep a small notebook with you and jot down a few notes to remind yourself.

In any case, I think it’s unrealistic to expect to be able to give up your art altogether. A prolonged break is not unreasonable. I hope this helps and I hope you can get everything on track. If you need any more guidance, feel free to email me.

Readers, what do you think? How do you handle thoughts of literary retirement?

Thanks,
Jim

Readers,

Do you have a question about writing, publishing, my stories, etc? Please feel free to post a comment or email me.

jimthewritingwizard@gmail.com

I’ll use those comments to select my next blog post.

I have been writing for several years, have 4 published works, experience with publishing and independent work, so I can hopefully be of assistance.

Please note, I only do one of these a day and will do my best to respond to everyone, but it may take some time.

Also, feel free to check out my works of Fantasy and Historical Fiction, Available on Amazon and where ever books are sold. See the link below:

http://www.amazon.com/James-Harrington/e/B00P7FBXTU

Note:
If you have read my books, PLEASE log into Amazon and post a review. I really love to hear everyone’s thoughts and constructive criticisms. Reviews help get my book attention and word of mouth is everything in this business!

Thanks friends!

Catch you on the flip side!

-Jim

Category: advice, fantasy, Fiction, literature, Opinion, Science Fiction, Writing Tags: , , , , , ,

1 Comment on “Calling it Quits”

  1. If writing is interfering with your life and your family, I agree that a step back is needed. I’ve found that many successful writers tend to publish their works, go on extended vacations right after publication, and then come back to pound out another piece of work. So, that sounds like a plan to me! Let’s face it – Writing is exhausting. After publishing something, you need to remedy that exhaustion with something rewarding, and something to celebrate your accomplishment.

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