Chapter 4: Writers Rut
Good afternoon, everyone!
January is finally over! Honestly, that felt like the longest month ever. Normally, I don’t mind January (and, yes, I’ll admit it, I'm one of those New Year motivated people). I do wonder sometimes if it’s part of my OCD, as I love tracking things month by month, and if I start partway through, I get frustrated. Since January is also my birthday month, it usually helps break up the time a little, but this year, it just dragged on.
With such a long month came an even longer writer's rut. I wouldn't exactly call it writer's block, because it’s not about not knowing what to write, it’s more about struggling to find the motivation to actually sit down and write. Writing was my way of transitioning away from Twitch streaming; it helped shift my focus onto something new. But during the waiting periods for feedback, I’d find it hard to “relax.” I always need to be doing something. Even when I’m playing games, it’s because I’m aiming to trophy hunt or finish them in record time. There’s always a purpose. So many people in my life have said I’ve never heard of the word relax. So, this downtime has been a challenge, and it’s made it tough to get back into the groove.
This is also partly where Book of Steele came from. It’s a project I could work on while waiting, and now I find myself putting so much focus on it that I’m often more caught up in writing content about writing than actually doing the writing itself. It’s a never-ending cycle, really.
But enough about that. Onto the good stuff!
The February Writing Challenge has officially kicked off on Book of Steele, and I’m thrilled to share that the response has been overwhelming! Considering I’m just getting started with this new venture, it’s been so heartwarming to see how many people have signed up. I’ve already received a few submissions, and I can’t wait to see more! If you’d like to know more or join the challenge, you can check it out [here].
I’m also really pleased with my reading progress! I've seen so many people on social media mention how ACOTAR (A Court of Thorns and Roses) got them back into reading, and it was definitely the series that reignited my love for books last year. I set myself a goal of reading 10 books this year, and I’m already on my third! I love a good challenge, and my best friend is currently reading Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros. I’m determined to catch up so we can discuss it together. A book club is something I’m hoping to start on Book of Steele in the future, so if that’s something that interests you, please leave a comment!
I have to say, though, as I’m only on my second adult fantasy series, Fourth Wing has truly blown me away. It’s made ACOTAR feel a bit underwhelming in comparison. I’m just over halfway through the second book in the Fourth Wing series (Iron Flame), and I can’t wait to finish it (hopefully in the next few days).
Until next week! All the best,
A. Steele.
