Manuscript sucks the writing wind out of me

I just submitted draft #1 of a white paper to Ragan Communications. The last 8 weeks have been spent head down writing and editing. It takes it out of me to the point that I cannot bring myself to write a blog entry. Bad blogger, bad blogger. 

It’s just what I tell clients not to do – don’t allow your blog to go stagnant. But, then my blog is more of a hobby. I’m just not as focused on this hobby as I am on others.

I don’t usually think of myself as a writer. I excel at editing other people’s work, but writing hasn’t typically been something I really enjoy. Several of those I worked with to draft new case studies said they liked my writing style. Great feedback, but that doesn’t mean I’ll turn to writing full time.

What is it about writing that brings my brain to a screeching halt? Starting with something written by someone else is much better for me. In the case of this white paper, it was originally drafted and printed in early 2002. I was editing, replacing, rewriting. A few sections are completely new, but thank goodness I had something to start with.

I envy those who can launch themselves happily into a writing assignment. With gusto, even. Not me. I sometimes think about writing a novel. Then I remember that I am far to practical for such nonsense.