Have you ever felt like you’re holding the entire world—real and fictional—on your shoulders? A few weeks ago, a fellow author I admire shared their “I needed to recharge” story, and I thought, Good for them, but I’ve got this. Fast forward a bit, and that same weight came knocking for me. Actually, it didn’t knock—it tapped me on the shoulder, leaned in, and said, Sit down.
So, I did. I am. And it’s been both a humbling and illuminating experience. The messy middle of a creative journey isn’t glamorous, but it’s where the work—and the growth—happens. If you’re feeling the weight today, you’re not alone.
Read on to find out why this part of the journey matters, how to manage the weight, and why sitting down might be the best thing you can do.
The Beauty and the Weight
Here’s the thing about carrying weight: it means you care. The pressure only exists because what you’re doing matters. Whether it’s building a story, connecting with readers, or chasing that next big goal, the weight is a reminder that you’re trying, striving, and pouring yourself into something meaningful.
But let’s be real: it’s also exhausting. And it’s okay to admit that. The myth of the endlessly inspired, always-on, superhuman creator? Yeah, I’m calling BS on that. Creativity isn’t a faucet you can just turn on and off. It’s more like a stubborn old engine that needs fuel, time, and the occasional kick to get going.
What I’m Learning About the Journey
Here are a few things I remind myself when the weight feels heavy—and maybe they’ll help you too:
Rest Isn’t a Luxury; It’s a Tool. Sometimes, stepping away is the most productive thing you can do. A quiet walk, a binge-worthy TV show, or just sitting with a cup of tea can recharge those creative muscles. You’re not losing time; you’re investing in the long game.
Celebrate the Small Wins. Finished a chapter? Posted a blog? Resisted the urge to throw your laptop out the window? That’s progress, and it deserves recognition. Big dreams are built one tiny step at a time.
Humor Helps. When things feel overwhelming, I remind myself that I’m just one writer, powered by caffeine and chaos, trying to save fictional worlds while balancing my real one. Laughing at the absurdity makes the load feel lighter.
Your Work Matters. Even when the doubts creep in, remember this: there are people out there waiting for your story. Your words will inspire, entertain, and provoke thought in ways you may never see—but it’s happening.
The Middle of the Story
Right now, I’m in what I call the “messy middle” of my author journey. I’m deep in my second book, juggling the demands of marketing the first, contemplating the plot for book three, and trying to stay one step ahead of my to-do list. It feels overwhelming, yes, but it also feels…right. Like this is where the story starts to take shape.
And just like in any great story, the middle isn’t where you give up. It’s where you find your grit.
To My Fellow Authors and Dream-Chasers
If you’re feeling the weight today, I see you. Whether you’re drafting your first novel, publishing your tenth, or just dreaming of putting pen to paper, know this: you’re doing amazing. You’re showing up. You’re creating something that didn’t exist before, and that’s extraordinary.
So, take a breath. Take a break. And then take the next step, no matter how small it feels.
The weight means you’re in it. The weight means you care. And caring? That’s the heart of everything we do.
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