Will it hurt the progress if you step away?

Published on by Jean M. Cogdell

Well, I’m about to find out.

I’m going to leave behind my computer, with all my characters tucked safely inside, for the next three weeks. It feels as though I’m leaving puppies at the house unsupervised.

Now if you think that means I won’t be bugging you with posts from Jean’s Writing, no such luck. I always write my posts days ahead and schedule them for release through Tweetdeck. So my blog is covered. This enables me to spend a few hours each week on my blog and the rest of the time on my various other writing projects.

But, I’m going to visit my beautiful granddaughters and want to give them my undivided attention. We all know how needy characters can be, so that’s why I’m leaving them behind.

A paper journal is all I’m taking to jot down thoughts as they pop up but that’s not the same as writing every day. I’m feeling a tad anxious. In the past, few days here and there hasn’t bothered me but this will be almost three weeks before I will be back at the computer and ready to write. I sure hope they are still there when I return.

What will happen to them while I’m away?

Will they starve or forget me? Will I forget them?

Here is how I’m reassuring myself.

  • My brain could use a little R&R.
  • I may find new material out in the world.
  • Time to live in the moment not in my imagination.
  • I’ll have time to read for pure pleasure.
  • And best of all I get to spend time with my kids!
  • My characters will be waiting when I return. Right?

If you need reassurance about a much-needed break, click on the links at the bottom of this post.

What is the longest break you’ve ever taken from writing?

Was it hard to get back in the groove and flow?

Do you think writing breaks help or hurt?

Give me some encouragement peeps! 

I’d love to hear from you! Click the “write me” tab or contact me on Twitter @jeancogdell,Facebook at jean.cogdell and Amazon.com, stop by and say hey! The lights are on and I’m waiting.

Please remember to share this post with your Twitter  peeps and Facebook fans.

Why Taking Writing Breaks is Important

5 Reasons Why Writers Should Take A Break

3 Reasons You Should Take a Break From Your Writing

 

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12 thoughts on “Will it hurt the progress if you step away?”

  1. Good for you Jean. I’ve noticed several writers taking blogging breaks this summer, something I’ve never done and am dying to do. I spend part of my vacations on the computer for a few hours a day to keep up with things in fear of too many blog posts of those I follow piling up, and wondering if I’ll lose readers. Next vacation, I’m taking the plunge! I’ll be curious to learn how it turns out for you. Enjoy! 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. First couple of days, I must admit, there was a bit of Internet withdrawal. But once I let go, I really enjoyed being unconnected. I learned how very spoiled I’ve become with instant Internet at my fingertips. Go for it, you might surprise yourself.

      Liked by 1 person

  4. There will always be people who tell you to write everyday. But that doesn’t mean you need to make progress on your book everyday. Write an entry in a journal after your granddaughter goes to sleep. Or make a list of things you’ve discovered that inspire you so when you’re ready to write, those ideas will still be there.

    Liked by 1 person

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