You ever have moments in your life where no matter what you do, you keep coming up short? Well, that’s me right now. Thus, my late post. Just got back from a much-needed rest and visiting family, but there’s no time to reflect on it. There’s just too much to do.
Created and hosted by the Ninja himself, Alex J. Cavanaugh, the Insecure Writers Support Group posts the 1st Wednesday of every month. Click the image to learn more or sign up.
Optional Monthly Question: What would make you quit writing?
I don’t think I will ever quit writing, but I could quit trying to publish my writing. Right now, I’m not actively trying to publish anything, but only because I’m waiting until I feel I have something worth publishing. For me, it’s not about quitting, it’s about whether or not I want to keep doing it.
Quitting isn’t what it used to be. Societal standards have overwhelmed so many people that it’s gotten to the point where very few feel obligated to stick with something that doesn’t bring them joy anymore and I, for one, am glad. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with someone saying, “I’ve had enough.” That’s called moving on. It’s not the same mentality as someone who never had a passion for something and then quit because it didn’t make them a lot of money. That’s what quitting is.
Sometimes I want to take time off, knowing how quickly people forget you and write you off if you’re not constantly putting yourself out there, and it used to cause me to stick around. Fortunately, I’ve reached a point where I don’t care anymore. If people write me off or forget about me, well, so be it. Sometimes I just need time off. When I return to writing, blogging, vlogging, or whatever it is I’ve taken time off from, I’m doing it for me. I’m just as happy with a crowd of one as I am with a crowd of 100.
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IWSG BOOK CLUB ON GOODREADS
I’m currently struggling to complete any of the books I’ve started including our book club reads and not because they aren’t good reads. I’m feeling overwhelmed in many areas of my life and unfortunately, my read count and word count are suffering. Hopefully though, since I’m seeking help and support, I’ll be able to get back on track soon.
Now, on to the personal updates.
Discovered a new medical condition that’s been making my life difficult to navigate. Was in a car accident (I’m okay). My dog is very sick. The woes of technological issues, and the usual stuff we know as life have made the last month and a half very difficult, but I’m trying to keep it moving. I hardly made it around to visit many blogs last month, but I hope to be able to visit more this month.
I posted a few videos to my YouTube channel just to feel like I have a little control of what’s going on around me. Despite the minor hardships I’m currently dealing with (in comparison to what other people are going through) I am still very blessed.
Here are a few videos you can check out if you’re up for it.
Have U Seen This? #7 6/21 | 6-21 Mid Year Haul | and
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Ever thought about quitting?
Whatever you’re going through, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
It may take some time, but I promise, I will eventually stop by your blog.
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After hanging out with Alex, be sure to stop by and visit this month’s co-hosts:
Pat Garcia,
Victoria Marie Lees,
Chemist Ken, and
Louise – Fundy Blue!
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Click here to visit other IWSG blogs and sites to receive and share more inspiration and support. (This month, I’m #36).
Thank you for taking the time to read this post. If you like it let me know and share it with others. See you next time, Toi Thomas. #thetoiboxofwords #blacklivesmatter
28 replies on “#IWSG July 2021: Quitting isn’t what it used to be.”
Hi,
It is so good to hear that you have stopped seeking the approval of others. That is the greatest big jump in discovering who you really are.
Proud of you, Lady.
Take care and I wish you the very best.
Shalom aleichem,
Pat G @ EverythingMustChange
Sorry for my late reply. I always look forward to your positive words and encouragement. Thank you for co-hosting this month and for stopping by my blog.
I love the way you phrased it and I’m with you – writing is part of who I am and what I do & what I want to do. If that changes, I’d move on. Quitting and moving on are totally different things. Sending good vibes your way – hope things settle in and look up!
Sorry for my late reply, Jemi. There really is a difference between quitting and moving on. Thanks for stopping by.
It also comes back knowing when to say no when you are overstretched.
Yes, it’s true. I’ve had to cut back on a lot and be transparent with others about what I can and cannot do. Thanks Alex.
One thing I really believe we need to get away from is the algorithms that demand constant content. It’s not healthy for people to constantly be putting out stuff and we shouldn’t demand it of others and get mad when someone needs time away. It’s only going to hurt us in the long run.
I agree. It’s one thing for someone to set a standard for themselvs but another for an algorithm to decide whether or not you will be seen based on how much content you produce.
Like you, I could never stop writing, but there could come a time when I decide to quit publishing. I’ve thought about it before.
I’ve been in a reading rut, too. Graphic novels have helped me in that area.
I’m sorry to hear your medical condition, the car accident, your dog, and technical woes. I hope things get better. If you ever need something, feel free to reach out. Take care!
Thank you Chrys, that means a lot. It’s been rough, but I’m coping. I too find that picture books and graphic novels help me when I’m in a reading rut.
It’s definitely ok to step away from writing/reading/anything else when you know you need a break.
Yes, I think it’s good to take a break from time to time. Thanks for stopping by.
” I’m just as happy with a crowd of one as I am with a crowd of 100.” That’s the correct attitude.
If you enjoy writing can you really quit? I don’t think so. You may have phases, where you don’t write much; but eventually you will find your way back to the blank page.
And I’m talking about writing for the sheer pleasure of writing, and possibly publishing something along the way.
Then there’s writing to pay the bills – that’s a different story.
Yes, writing to pay the bills is not something I can fathom. The idea sounds nice, but could be too much pressure for me.
If you’re not a massive big author or in people’s views at all times, they will forget. So why knock yourself out trying to do that?
Yes, I agree.
Keep on keeping on! You’ll get there. Be well, stay well, and never ever quit! Your words are needed and appreciated. Just a blip in the road. Take a break and come back all the stronger!
Thank you Yolanda, not just for these words but for all the encourgement you given me over the years. It really means a lot.
Dang, you have so much going on in your life, no wonder you need to take a break! Hope the medical issues get sorted out, because that stuff sucks. And whenever you want to share your words, I’ll be here to read them 🙂
My condition is getting better but it will be something that I have to watch out for, for the rest of my life. Thank you so much for your kind words.
I hope your dog gets well soon and that the medical issues get sorted out 🙂 As for reading: I hear you about struggling to get through books. I know what I’m supposed to be reading, but there are so many other shiny books out there that have nothing to do with that…
Ronel visiting for IWSG day Obstacles to Overcome and My Podcast is Live!
As with many things in life, I’m finding that reading comes down to how much time do I have. I’ve decided to start investing in audio books and using the text to speech feature on my Kindle. It’s not the same, but I have a long work commute that’s going to be put to good use.
Sounds like a good idea.
Sometimes writing for ourselves is the right thing to do. I love it when I have something written just for me and I don’t have the added pressure of publishing it. Hope that now you know what has been causing to feel ill, that you improve quickly on the health front.
Yes, it does feel good sometimes to just write for myself. As far as my health goes, I’m getting answers and doing better but it’s going to be a long adjustment period as I have to make major changes in my diet. There are things most people consider health foods that I can no longer eat.
I’m sort of in the same place as you. I’m not exactly quitting, I’m on hiatus. LOL Sometimes, we’re so overwhelmed by all that life throws at it we need to take a break. Good luck to you!
Thank you Diane. Hope your hiatus is going well. Thanks for stopping by.
Oh, Toi, I’m so sorry life is handing you road apples right now. I’ve been there, and it really sucks. I hope your pooch will recover, and that you will start feeling recharged. If you’re a member of Masterclass, Robin Arzon teaches one on mental strength that is amazing and so helpful. (If you’re not a member, I’d be happy to send you a weeklong guest pass.) It was a quick watch, but I found it really motivating.
And I’ll never forget you, whether you post or not. Love to you. x