The Insecure Writer’s Support Group

How to Become Obsessed With Your WIP Again

(WIP = work in progress)

As a new writer, every story I started began with excitement for either the character, the plot, or both.

After a few chapters, though, the writing became a chore. Soon, writer’s block would set in. It pained me to not be working on it. Not wanting to work on it.

Sound like where you’ve been or where you are now?

Through trial and error, I discovered the secret to finding excitement again for every project should I lose interest. To finding that original fire I started with.

Now, anytime I’m struggling with any WIP, I know exactly what to do, which are two things, and they’re tied together.

1. Go back to the characters
2. Go back to the plot

Going back to the characters

The characters and I sit down for a long meeting. Sometimes these meetings take several days. I let them talk on paper, while I record what they’re saying. They can talk about anything they desire.

After a while, I’m noticing that their mood is changing. They’re remembering…events where I can see hidden emotions, so I start probing with questions like:  How did you feel about that? Did you ever resolve your feeling or talk to that person later? Why not? What would they have done differently if given the opportunity? And, so forth.

Soon, they’re talking about their wounds, the hurt(s) they’ve suffered. In talking about them, we can both see how the hurt led to their beliefs, their goals, and even their choice of partners and friends. They have their aha moments in these discussions.

Which leads us to going back to plot

We become a team as we examine the plotline and how we can have them butt up against their wound several times. What events we need to include.

They want to overcome that which has been holding them back. They want to become a better person. So, they help me layer in the emotions, the plants and payoffs, and create the necessary tension that leads to page-turning stories.

As I write the story, they become actors in their own stories. Interesting scenario, right?

Of course, we’re all crossing our fingers that we’ve created a memorable story, both in my writing and their acting.

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As I finish writing Sweet Cravings #7 of the Laurel Ridge romance series, the last book, I find myself saddened that my adventures with these seven couples is coming to an end. They’ve become a family of friends, strongly connected for past last few years, making me laugh at their hijinks and teasing. Me wishing I could run around with them.

But now, new characters in new projects are waiting backstage, eager to make their appearance. These new characters know the drill. They know we’ll be chatting for several days first, building both their arc and the plotline before word one is written.

No more getting stuck in the middle anymore for this writer.

It’s my secret to staying obsessed with every story I write. Wanna give it a try?

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Dr. Diana Stout is an award-winning writer in multiple genres and media who enjoys helping other writers.

She’s teaching a Master Class, Punctuation and Grammar Made Easy, in January 2024, with limited seating. Enroll now if you’re interested!

Be sure to subscribe to her From the Desk of Diana Stout MFA PhD newsletter to receive updates and announcements on her classes and publications.

Learn more about Dr. Stout at her website, Sharpened Pencils Productions.

Follow her new Facebook account here: DrDiana Stout. (She’s the only Dr Diana in Facebook – Her Diana Stout account was hacked where she no longer has access, so you’ll want to unfollow that account.)

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Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writers. This group is all about connecting!