Being a writer looks different for everyone. For me, it is precious, sometimes hard to find, time where I can lay it all on the line on the pages of my work in progress. Writing is one of the few times I can be free and open. I don’t have to think about anything in particular except the next plot point. I can just feel.
I can get in the head of my characters and see what they see, feel what they feel. it is freeing in a way no other activity is—at least for me. I am a writer at heart, in my soul.
What does this mean? Sometimes it means I have hours at a time to write to my heart’s content. Those are the good days. Sometimes it means taking 20 minutes to do a sprint to add words to my WIP or plot the next one. Most times, it means having a dedicated 45 minutes or an hour to write.
I have gotten very used to writing in all conditions, from in the middle of a movie marathon to having the background noise of kids playing. I jump in and write what I can, when I can. I stop when I have to, because its time for the school bus, or work, or some other commitment. I leave my characters hanging often and pick up again when I next have my few moments. Sometimes I feel guilty if I leave them hanging right before an intimate moment. Sorry, you’ll get yours next writing session!
The important thing is that I write. No matter what. I don’t write every day, but I have regular time set aside that is for writing, however brief. I give myself breaks when I need them, but never for too long. Because I love to write and what it brings me is far greater than the commitment it takes to be a writer.