What to Do When Bad Days Hit Your Writing Work

Being an online writer comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining consistency and quality. The article dives into the realities of online writing and provides practical advice for overcoming bad days.

• It emphasizes that good days are infrequent, while bad days, whether related to writer's block or external pressures, are common.
• The author highlights the difficulty of defining consistency in creative work, as it is not a linear process and varies greatly from person to person.

The Subjectivity of Good Writing Work

The author draws a parallel between online writing and parenthood, suggesting that our writing, like our children, is often perceived differently by others. While we may feel proud of our work, readers might have differing opinions.

• This subjectivity underscores the importance of focusing on personal satisfaction with our writing work rather than solely on external validation.
• It encourages self-acceptance and pride in our creations, regardless of criticism.

When Inspiration for Your Writing Work Runs Dry

The article recognizes the inevitable dry spells writers encounter and emphasizes the importance of having a fallback plan. Keeping notes is recommended as a resource for inspiration.

• The author distinguishes between "simple bad days" and "terrible bad days."
• For simple bad days, notes and scribbles can serve as a springboard for re-igniting creativity.
• For terrible bad days, rest and rejuvenation are essential for regaining mental and creative energy.

The Value of Rest in Online Writing Work

The author advocates for taking breaks and resting during periods of intense creative struggles. This approach allows writers to recharge and return to their work with a fresh perspective.

• It emphasizes the futility of forcing creativity when it is absent.
• Rest and rejuvenation are crucial for maintaining long-term consistency and quality in online writing work.

Consistency is Key for Success in Online Writing Work

The author deconstructs the common advice to "be consistent" in online writing, arguing that it is a misleading and unhelpful statement.

• The article suggests that consistency is subjective and should be defined based on individual needs and capabilities.
• It emphasizes the importance of finding a sustainable rhythm that allows for both productive writing and necessary breaks.

Overcoming Bad Days for Online Writing Work

The article offers several strategies for overcoming bad days and maintaining consistency in online writing work.

• Embrace the reality of bad days: Recognize that bad days are a natural part of the creative process.
• Maintain a fallback plan: Keep notes or a resource bank of ideas to refer to during writer's block.
• Rest and recharge: When facing a terrible bad day, prioritize rest and rejuvenation.
• Focus on personal satisfaction: Remember that your writing is an extension of yourself and deserves your pride.
• Embrace flexibility: Define consistency in a way that works for you and allows for sustainable productivity.

Online Writing Work Advice

The author also recommends following the work of other successful online writers such as Denis Gorbunov, Matt | Financial Imagineer, Sarina Chiu, Tracy Collins, and Tom Handy. They offer valuable insights and inspiration for navigating the challenges of online writing.

• It underscores the importance of learning from experienced writers and finding a community of support.
• These resources can provide motivation and guidance during tough times.