In this episode of Between the Drafts, I’m talking about something I didn’t plan for… side quests.

I went into 2026 with a clear goal: publish two novels. I’m still committed to that. But after adding an anthology into the mix, the pressure set in… and instead of outlining books or drafting chapters, I did something unexpected.

This episode is a continuation of my reflections on creative redirection and my latest post:

but it’s also a reframing. Side quests aren’t distractions. They’re invitations to play, to finish something lingering, to learn something new, and to reconnect with why we create in the first place.

If you’ve ever felt guilty for stepping away from “the plan,” this episode is for you.

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