do you think it's a good idea to write some small works while you're also working on a bigger one? I'm currently writing a story (a failed nanowrimo attempt) and i haven't written anything since I left it a few days before nanowrimo ends. There are some ideas I have in mind and I still want to write, but I can't continue the first one because i think i need a break from it.
Working on Other Projects
If you need a break, definitely take it.
I think there’s a lot of debate surrounding this idea of forcing yourself to work on something in order to get something finished, as opposed to just dabbling in new projects all the time, but this past year I’ve been working on the same project consistently, and I’ve learned something about working on one project vs. multiple projects that I’ll share with you.
You should only work on a project that you want to work on.
Don’t take that statement literally, because there’s a lot between the lines that I’m not saying in those words that needs to be a elaborated on. Only working on a project that you want to work on it does not mean:
That you opt to do things other than writing because you don’t feel like it
That every scene will be your best work
That you have zero doubts about the concept
That you won’t ever make this face at it:
Only working on a project you want to work on means that when this story is in your life, it’s the only thing you want to write. You’re so wrapped up in your characters and your concept that when it comes to writing, this is the only place you want to be. When you have doubts or when scenes aren’t up to par, you want to fix them. You want to resolve whatever issues you’re having so you can keep working on it. Starting something new is the absolute last thing on your mind. You might not always feel like writing, and sometimes you really have to push yourself to get to work, but that’s more about a lack of energy/general motivation than the story itself.
So if you’re not there with this story right now, then forcing yourself to keep at it will only hurt the story in the end. Take a break from it, and go work on something else that excites you. Because doing that will keep you writing so you don’t get rusty. When you’re compelled to work on your NaNo story again, then go back to it and bring a fresh perspective and fresh ideas. I think that’ll help you in the long run.
Bear in mind, this post is based on my own personal experience, so it might not be valid for others. But it’s something to consider if you’re really unsure what you should be working on.
