Robert Birming

To write or not to write?

I read the post "It's okay to not feel like writing, right?". My short answer to that question is: Yes, absolutely!

But...

Personally, I choose to write even when I don't feel like it. I see writing in the same way as exercise; there's often some resistance, but I know it's beneficial for me and it always feels great afterward.

At the same time, I completely agree with what Bearly Significant also mentions:

But the day this stops being fun, the day keeping your blog updated feels more like a job than a pleasure, it's time to quit.

For a period many years ago, blogging became my main source of income, which resulted in me getting tired of it and quitting. All the joy and passion faded when it became a job instead of a pleasure.

Another example, to return to the comparison with exercise: If I choose running as a form of exercise, I'll quickly get bored and quit. I've tried, it doesn't work. Running simply isn't my thing.

So, should you write or not when you don't feel like it? It depends.

You're the only one who can decide what's right for you, which can be easier said than done. When it comes to things that are “good”, like writing or running, it's easy to think that the opposite is also true: It's bad not to do it.

Don't fall into that trap. A little resistance now and then is natural and part of the process. But if it starts to feel like a joyless must, quit. Or at least take a break.

Finally — if you don't already follow Bearly Significant, be sure to do so. Really good blog!