Woman writing at desk symbolizing perseverance when writing feels hard

How to Keep Going When Writing Feels Hard

May 06, 20264 min read

When Writing Feels Hard… You’re Not Alone

There are seasons in every writing journey where it feels hard.

You sit down to write… and nothing comes.
You feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure if you should even keep going.

If you’ve been there (or are there right now), I want you to know:

You are not alone.

Every writer—published or not—has faced this moment.


Quick Check-In: What’s Stopping You Right Now?

Before we go further, take a moment to reflect.

What’s stopping you from writing right now?

1. When you sit down to write, what happens?
A. I don’t know where to start
B. I feel overwhelmed
C. I second-guess everything
D. I just don’t feel motivated


2. What feels hardest right now?
A. Getting started
B. Staying consistent
C. Finishing what I start
D. Believing I can do this


3. How often are you writing?
A. Rarely
B. Occasionally
C. Somewhat consistently
D. I’ve stopped completely


4. What do you need most right now?
A. Direction
B. A plan
C. Encouragement
D. Confidence


What Your Answers Reveal

  • Mostly A’s → The Stuck Starter
    You need clarity and a simple first step.

  • Mostly B’s → The Overwhelmed Writer
    You need to simplify and focus on one thing at a time.

  • Mostly C’s → The Doubting Writer
    You need encouragement and confidence in your voice.

  • Mostly D’s → The Burned-Out Writer
    You need rest, grace, and renewed purpose.

Wherever you are… you’re still on the journey.


Watch: Encouragement for When It Feels Hard

Prefer to watch instead of read? Here’s a short message to encourage you right where you are.

👉 (Embed your YouTube Short here)


When You Feel Overwhelmed… Pause and Listen

Sometimes encouragement doesn’t come from doing more.

It comes from pausing.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a moment and let this message speak to your heart:

👉 (Embed “Hard Fought Hallelujah” video here)

Even in the struggle, there is purpose.


Lesson 1: Hard Doesn’t Mean You’re Failing

One of the biggest misconceptions in writing is this:

  • If it’s hard, something must be wrong.

But often, the opposite is true.

  • Hard means you’re growing.

Hard means:

  • You’re stretching

  • You’re learning

  • You’re stepping into something new


Lesson 2: You Don’t Have to Do Everything Today

Overwhelm often comes from trying to do too much at once.

Instead:

Focus on ONE step

  • Write one paragraph

  • Edit one page

  • Capture one idea

Small steps build strong platforms.


Lesson 3: Consistency Matters More Than Motivation

Motivation comes and goes. Consistency carries you forward.

Even when you don’t feel like writing: Show up anyway

That’s where progress happens.


Lesson 4: Your Story Still Matters

In hard seasons, doubt gets loud.

You may wonder:

  • Does this matter?

  • Should I keep going?

  • Am I really a writer?

Let me remind you:

Your story matters. And it’s still unfolding.


Lesson 5: Lean Into Faith When It Feels Heavy

There are moments when pushing through isn’t enough.

That’s when you pause… and lean in.

God is not absent from your writing journey. He is present in it.

Even in:

  • The silence

  • The struggle

  • The uncertainty


Waypoint Challenge: Take the Next Step

Don’t try to fix everything today.

Just choose ONE:

✔ Write for 10 minutes
✔ Revisit your “why”
✔ Journal your thoughts
✔ Pray over your next step

Forward is forward.


Explore More Author Business Guides

Keep moving forward:


Recommended Resources

Scripture Encouragement:
Philippians 4:13 — “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

“This powerful reminder emphasizes that your ability to endure, persevere, and move forward does not rely solely on your own strength—but on Christ’s power within you. The apostle Paul wrote these words while in a Roman prison, demonstrating that even in the most difficult circumstances, resilience and contentment come from God’s strength, not external conditions.” Bible Hub

Explore more at Bible Hub


Encouragement Resource:
When writing feels hard, take time to read faith-based encouragement that refocuses your heart and mind. Look for trusted Christian teaching that reminds you of your purpose, strengthens your perspective, and helps you keep moving forward.

Book:
The War of Art by Steven Pressfield - Available on Amazon

A powerful and practical look at the internal resistance every writer faces. This book encourages you to push through doubt, overcome procrastination, and show up consistently—even when writing feels hard.


Ready to Keep Moving Forward?

If you’re ready for clarity, direction, and encouragement on the business side of writing:

Explore coaching, webinars, and resources at deedeelake.com


Looking for more encouragement and practical strategies for your author journey? Follow along on Pinterest for ongoing inspiration, resources, and next steps.


Final Thought

You don’t need to have everything figured out.

You don’t need to feel ready. You just need to take the next step.

Keep going.


Coming Next

What’s Stopping You From Writing? (And How to Move Forward)


DeeDee Lake is a Business Coach for Aspiring Authors, guiding them through the business side of writing and publishing. She’s also a speaker, author of six books, and an encourager who empowers others to reach their full potential. Rooted in her faith, DeeDee brings an upbeat, positive approach to every journey, turning author dreams into reality.

DeeDee Lake

DeeDee Lake is a Business Coach for Aspiring Authors, guiding them through the business side of writing and publishing. She’s also a speaker, author of six books, and an encourager who empowers others to reach their full potential. Rooted in her faith, DeeDee brings an upbeat, positive approach to every journey, turning author dreams into reality.

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