@Fretum: That metaphor with the marathon got me. Like, you’re absolutely right – half the hesitation is just standing on the edge of the pool, looking at the water. And I love how you framed writing as something that should give something back to you. That’s probably what I’m trying to reclaim – letting it be a balance, not another pressure point. Quick question though: have you taken a course yourself that really helped shift your perspective or flow? Would love a recommendation if any stood out.
Ah, I’m so glad the marathon metaphor landed – it’s wild how much energy gets spent just hovering at the edge, right? That internal build-up before we even begin. And yes, totally with you on reclaiming that balance. When writing starts to feel like just another obligation, it loses the very thing that drew us to it in the first place. I’ve been trying to notice when it gives me energy versus when it drains me – not to judge it, but just to adjust how I approach it.
As for courses – yes! I’ve taken a few, but one that really shifted something for me was a generative writing workshop led by a poet who focused less on polish and more on process. It was such a relief. We were encouraged to write messily, with zero pressure to “finish” anything. That freedom unlocked a lot. If you're looking for something similar, I’d recommend checking out classes through places like Catapult, novum publishing, or even local writing centers or further education centres. Sometimes it’s less about the content and more about the vibe – finding spaces that feel generous and low-stakes. There is also a lot of help online. Youtube is full of tips, there is also a lot of good help. It's worth a look.
Yeah, that's the joy in it when it takes time and you're enjoying it because that's part of the process.
And that, for me, is the difference between a hobby and a job.
With a hobby, you do it voluntarily, but you have to do the work. That's not to say that work can't be fun, but there's more pressure behind it.
You should see writing as a hobby for as long as you can, even if you're a professional author, it shouldn't get to the point where you have to write. You can write and enjoy it.
If you enjoy it, the result will be much better.