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I can’t continue to write this article/book/novella–I’m burned out.

What is burnout?

Is it not feeling like doing something any more? Is it when a project lingers on after the jolt of excitement in starting it has faded? Is it when the project lapses into drudgery?

Is it fatigue? Is it lack of mental clarity?

Well, if those things are burnout then I say writing a novel will result in burnout.

If you’re expecting to sit down and write everyday and be giddy about it, I think you’re out of luck. A writer whose name escapes me once said,

“I don’t know if I like writing. I like having written.”

If you’re tired, rest. If you’re foggy, do something to clear your head. Then get back to work.

Or don’t go back to work. You don’t have to write a book. It might not be for you.

But if you want to be prepared for days when it sucks.

Got it? Good. Now, ass on chair, fingers on keyboard. Type!