Do the Work: How Writers Push Through Distractions, Doubts, and Limitations
Writing is rarely romantic. It’s easy to picture a cozy desk, the perfect cup of coffee, and words flowing effortlessly onto the page. But reality? Reality looks more like stolen moments between work meetings, typing through exhaustion, fighting self-doubt, and shutting out the noise of life.
Yet, the work gets done.
Great writing doesn’t happen because someone had the perfect conditions—it happens because they did the work anyway. Writers don’t wait for inspiration; they chase it. They carve out time when they have none. They push forward when doubts creep in.
Let’s explore some of the ways writers show up and do the work—amid distractions, writer’s block, even lack “necessary” skill sets.
Finding Time in a Busy World
Most writers juggle jobs, families, responsibilities, and exhaustion. Finding time to write often feels impossible. One of the first conversations I have with clients is how, when and where they will do the work. And we revisit this topic often. Some ideas my clients and I use in our writing include:
Write in small pockets of time – Many authors like Toni Morrison write while raising a family and working full-time. She didn't wait for large blocks of uninterrupted time—she made use of whatever minutes she had. If you’re exhausted by the end of the day—and who isn’t!—I encourage to write for just 10 minutes. Personally, working on a project I am excited about energizes me. If your project doesn’t energize you that’s a sign you need to make some change. Maybe throw in and action scene, add a twist, or a steamy love scene—come on, you know I had to go there! ;)
Set a daily writing goal – A writer who commits to 300 words per day will have a full-length book in less than a year. Isn’t that exciting! Just 300 words per day. You can totally do that! And if not everyday, do it when you can and track your progress. Seeing that word count climb can really motivate you when you’ve had a long day and are tempted to skip. But I encourage you to push forward, 300 words is less than one page per day!
Use the “first thing” method – Some writers wake up before their families or start writing before checking emails. The earlier in the day, the fewer distractions. And the better our brains work (for most of us anyway). A well-rested brain is a creative brain. Do whatever it takes to get the quality rest you need and show up for your writing, for story, and for yourself!
Block distractions intentionally – Silence notifications, set writing boundaries, and say no to anything that pulls you away from your creative work. Period.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Many writers battle that cruel voice that whispers, Who do you think you are? Imposter syndrome convinces them their work isn’t good enough, that success is for other people.
But successful writers recognize that imposter syndrome is a liar.
Act like a professional before you feel like one – Author Neil Gaiman has talked about how, even after a successful career, he doubted whether he was a “real writer.” The only way forward is to write anyway—confidence comes from action. If you write, you’re a writer. No other qualifications needed.
Remind yourself that every writer doubts themselves – The most accomplished authors still feel this. It’s not proof you’re a fraud; it’s proof you’re doing something meaningful. And every writer has a team of people helping them put out their best work. Nobody’s first draft is great, probably not even their fifth, but if you don’t write that first draft there is nothing to edit nothing to improve upon. Push through the hard times until you get to the finish line. Your efforts will not be wasted.
Collect praise and victories – Keep positive feedback and small achievements in a journal. When self-doubt hits, remind yourself that your work has value. We build confidence through doing, so do the work.
Battling Writer’s Block
The dreaded creative block—it convinces writers that they’ve lost their talent or that their ideas have dried up. But real professionals understand that writer’s block isn’t a wall; it’s a signal.
When blocked, try these:
Change the scenery – Author John Steinbeck often left his writing space and walked outside to shake loose ideas.
Write badly on purpose – Writer Anne Lamott recommends writing “terrible first drafts.” The goal isn’t perfection—it’s momentum.
Work on a different project – If stuck, shift to another writing piece. New creativity can often reignite stalled work.
Write anything—literally – A blocked writer needs to keep their writing muscles moving. Sometimes, typing out random thoughts unlocks real creativity.
Navigating Financial and Skill Limitations
Not everyone has endless resources, expensive writing courses, or industry connections—but many successful writers started from the same place.
Here’s how writers succeed despite limitations:
Learn for free – The internet is overflowing with free writing resources, courses, and expert advice.
Join writing groups – Community can replace expensive mentors. Critique groups, online forums, and local writing circles provide feedback and motivation.
Start small – Many best-selling authors started writing for free or low-pay gigs. The goal is momentum and learning, not instant success.
Make use of free tools – Libraries, online editing software, and networking events can replace costly investments.
Final Thoughts
Writing isn’t about waiting for the perfect circumstances. It’s about showing up, even when it’s messy. Even when the doubts creep in. Even when the distractions are loud.
The difference between aspiring writers and real writers? The real ones do the work.
What’s your next step? Find time, silence doubt, overcome blocks, and start writing—because the work won’t do itself.