When Is It Time To Call It Quits?

When do you know it's time to call it quits?

 A writer pours his/her heart and soul into every word that touches the pages of creativity. You commit yourself to complete what you have started, burning the midnight oil to capture the imagination that bursts through your mind. Your family and friends wonder sometimes if you’re crazy. And sometimes you wonder the same. You ask yourself “why am I doing this” and there are times when you want to give up. You consider calling it “quits.”

How do you know if it is time to give up? 

You’ve sent your query to so many publishers and literary agents that you start collecting rejection letters as a hobby. You become discouraged that no one in the professional world of literature has recognized your work. You start to think you have no talent. “Maybe I’m only kidding myself.” 

 None of the above is a reason to quit writing.  Remember a time when a story invaded your mind and you couldn’t wait to get it on paper. Think of the quiet moments of creativity you enjoy when you write. Experience the words you put on paper.

Is being published all that matters?

Don’t get me wrong being published is great. It does hold a certain amount of validation that most writers strive for. And yes, most writers spend more of their time trying to get published than they do actually writing a novel. The query letter seems to get the majority their time.

It is important to take your writing seriously. If you want to be published attending conferences, polishing your craft and learning as much as you can about the business is essential. But in the midst of all this don’t forget to write. Don’t put your craft down while you try to get that one book published. Continue to write. Continue to write. Continue to write.

So, the answer to the question “when do you know it’s time to call it quits” is NEVER. Write because you love it. Write because you can. And write because you never know what the future holds.

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