What To Do When You Want To Quit Writing

You’ve poured your heart into the story, shared it on your portfolio, and no one reads it. The disappointment is high, but you decide to enter it in a contest. But, as always, it doesn’t win, and now you’re lost and you are doubting yourself. This is how writer’s burnout can form, and how you can end up feeling like you want to quit writing.

This feeling of self-doubt and lack of motivation happens to every writer, so don’t worry if you feel like this. There are things you can do to work through it, although time will usually help on its own.

Signs You’re Burnt Out

Every writer experiences burnout, but it can be beneficial to know the signs. As soon as you feel burnout coming, and like you want to quit writing, you should take action. Some common signs out writer’s burnout include:

• Constant self doubt
• Comparing yourself to others
• Dreading writing
• No enjoyment from writing

Helpful Tips for When You Want To Quit Writing

Remind Yourself Why You Write

Understanding your why is essential for getting through the lows as a writer. When nothing is going right, when no one is reading your work, when everyone seems to dislike your work, hold on to your why.

I remember when I first wanted to make this post, I wrote a poem I shared on TikTok about why I continue to write, and it really helped me to see writing in a new light. I encourage you to write something short about why you write.

Unseen stories and unheard cries, but I swore that was my last line.
Insatiable, they sat raging inside. Dying for the chance to be read.
My heart couldn't hold the hurt.
They called to me, whispering, "We need be told."
So, I let myself give in.
And in the truest form I am able, I share the words that consume me.
For the chance to be seen, for the chance to be heard.

Here are some prompts to get you thinking of your why:

• What made you fall in love with writing?
• What story do you need to tell?

Rereading old writing can also help to remind you of your why and overcome burnout.

Reframe What Success Means to You

Many people equate a “successful writer” to someone who is published, who is earning a living from their writing, and who is well-known. However, writing isn’t always about publishing or recognition. There are many ways one can be a “successful writer”, and it simply comes down to how you view success.

Writing is a creative outlet that can offer self-expression and healing. Just like any creative skill, writing can allow a person to open themselves to the world and gain confidence by sharing their perspective of life.

A writer is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people. – Thomas Mann

Just because writing is harder for you than others doesn’t mean you’re not a real writer. I’ve yet to meet a single writer who hasn’t struggled with writing at least once.

Create a Reset Plan

Stay ahead of burnout by creating a gentle reset plan that is ready for you to use anytime you need it. You can include tasks like journaling, revisiting old work, and free-writing sessions.

Burnout may not seem serious, but it really sucks sometimes and can have you reevaluating your life as a writer. And luckily, it doesn’t have to be that bad because there are things you can do to get through it easier.

Some reset plan tips:

• take a short break from writing, plan a date to come back to it
• do low-pressure writing sessions (like prompts, journaling, free-writing)
• limit social media comparison
• revisit old writing

Try Something New

You may be experiencing burnout simply because you’re bored of the same writing. Try writing in a different genre or format to give your brain a bit of a writing workout.

If you’re up for a real challenge, try joining a writing class or a writing community. Get to know others who understand your challenges and learn from each other.

Remember: This is a Season, Not Forever

Creative endeavors often involve cycles of motivation and drive followed by discouragement and challenge. Some days you will love what you do and others it will drive you crazy—that is all a normal part of being creative.

Sometimes just being reminded that you aren’t alone can be a big help. Go easy on yourself and keep trying to achieve your goal, even when you feel like you want to quit writing altogether.

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