3 Signs You Should Quit Writing
If I'd known this it would have made life x10 easier
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As a top writer on Medium and Substack, I know the thrill of seeing my articles gain traction, get shared, and make an impact.
But I also know the frustration of staring at a blank screen, feeling like I’m not making any progress, and wondering if it’s all worth it.
That’s why I want to talk to you about quitting writing.
Yes, you heard me right.
Sometimes, quitting is the best thing you can do for your mental health, career, and overall happiness.
Now, I know that’s a controversial statement.
As creators, we’re taught to never give up on our dreams and to keep pushing no matter what.
But the truth is, sometimes pushing through just isn’t worth it.
That’s why I want to share three signs that may indicate it’s time to quit, quit, and quit writing.
Don’t worry, I’m not here to lecture or tell you what to do. I’m just a fellow writer who’s been there and understands the struggle.
“Knowing when to walk away is wisdom. Being able to is courage. Walking away with your head held high is dignity.” — Unknown
1. You dread writing
Let me tell you a story about two writers.
Writer A: Dreads writing every day, forcing themselves to sit in front of their computer and write.
Writer B: Loves writing and can’t wait to start writing their next piece.
Can you guess which writer is happier and more successful in their writing career?
As a writer, it’s natural to experience writer’s block or struggle to find the right words at times.
However, if you find yourself dreading the act of writing, it may be a sign that something needs to change.
“Writing should be a joy, not a grind. If you’re dreading it, listen to that feeling — it’s trying to tell you something.” — Jeff Goins
Think about it; if you’re forcing yourself to write every day, you’re not going to produce your best work.
Your writing will lack passion, creativity, and authenticity. You may even start to resent writing altogether.
That’s why it’s crucial to listen to your gut and take a step back if you’re not feeling the joy of writing anymore.
Maybe you need to take a break from writing and come back to it with a fresh perspective.
Or perhaps you need to explore other creative outlets that align more with your interests and passions.
At the end of the day, writing should be something that brings you joy and fulfillment.
If you find yourself dreading writing more often than not, it may be time to consider making a change.
Remember, your happiness and well-being should always come first.
2. Stuck in a Writing Rut
Let’s face it — writing can be tough.
It’s a craft that requires patience, dedication, and a whole lot of trial and error.
But what happens when you’ve been at it for a while and don’t seem to be making any progress?
It can be disheartening, to say the least.
“Writing is easy. All you have to do is cross out the wrong words.” — Mark Twain
As someone who’s been there before, I know how frustrating it can be to pour your heart and soul into your writing, only to see little to no results.
That’s why it’s important to know when it’s time to move on.
Now, I’m not saying that you should give up on your dream of becoming a successful writer altogether.
But if you’ve been at it for years and aren’t seeing any significant progress, it may be time to reevaluate your goals and consider a different approach.
It’s okay to take a step back and ask yourself some tough questions;
Are you writing for the right audience?
Are you exploring different genres and styles?
Are you networking and building relationships with other writers and industry professionals?
These are all important factors to consider when it comes to making progress in your writing career.
So, if you’re feeling stuck in a writing rut, don’t despair.
3. You’re sacrificing your mental health
Let’s get real for a minute. As a writer, I know firsthand the impact that writing can have on my mental health.
The pressure to create something amazing, the constant rejection, and the never-ending comparison game can all take a toll on my well-being.
And as much as I love writing, I’ve learned the hard way that it’s crucial to recognize when it’s time to put my mental health first.
“Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” — Eleanor Brownn
When I’m feeling stressed, anxious, or even depressed because of writing, I have to ask myself — is it really worth it?
Sure, I have big dreams of becoming a bestselling author or a world-renowned blogger, but at what cost?
My mental health should always come first, and if writing is getting in the way of that, it’s time to take a break.
So, if you’re in the same boat, don’t be afraid to hit pause and prioritize yourself.
Taking care of your mental health doesn’t mean giving up on your dreams — it means recognizing that you need to take care of yourself to achieve those dreams.
Remember, writing is a journey, and it’s okay to take detours along the way.
Your mind will thank you for it.
None of these signs apply to me, should I keep trying to write more?
Congratulations, writing warrior!
It’s fantastic to hear that you’re not experiencing any of the signs that we discussed in this read.
It’s a sign that you’re dedicated, committed, and passionate about your writing, and that’s something to be proud of.
But what’s next for you? Should you keep trying to write more?
Absolutely.
Don’t stop now, You’re on a roll, and there’s no telling how far your writing journey will take you.
Writing is a never-ending journey, and there’s always room for growth and improvement. So, keep pushing yourself to be the best writer you can be.
Keep exploring new genres, experimenting with different writing styles, and challenging yourself with new projects.
The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination.
Remember, writing is not just a job or a hobby, but a way of life.
“Writing is the painting of the voice.” — Voltaire
That’s it. Thanks for reading!
I hope you found this edition of Be 1% Better Every Monday useful.
-Zohvib
P.S. I know firsthand how challenging and rewarding the writing journey can be. That’s why I want to offer my hand to help you elevate your writing game to new heights.
You send me your draft link, and I will edit it for comprehension, flow, structure, curation on Medium, thorough grammar and spelling check, and value to the reader. I will also provide suggestions for publication and tags.
Remember, writing is a journey, and we’re all in this together.
All the best.
One of the best article I've ever read on writing. Thank you very much Zohvibbb!!!