Your Next Draft

What to Do When You Want to Quit Your Book


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Have you ever wanted to quit your book?

Here’s the good news, and the bad news: that’s a normal part of the book writing process.

Every writer I know has struggled to make it through the middle of their novel. They’ve all been tempted to quit the book they’re currently working on and start over with a better story idea.

So if you’re feeling ready to ditch this book idea and start writing something better . . .

. . . you’re not alone.

Before you quit, though, I want to share a few truths with you.

  1. Your book idea isn’t the problem.
  2. Quitting this book won’t make the next book easier.
  3. You have what it takes to finish—and it’s worth seeing this book through to the end.

Don’t believe me? Hit play and find out what I told a writer recently who emailed me to ask whether she should quit her book.

Then, get back to writing!

You’ve got this. And I’m cheering you on the whole way through!

Links mentioned in the episode:

  • Ep. 4: 10 Productivity Tips to Finish Writing Your First Draft Faster
  • Ep. 5: 11 Creativity Tips to Finish Writing Your First Draft Faster
  • Ep. 6: 3 Speedy Strategies to Edit Your Novel Faster
  • Ep. 7: 7 More Speedy Strategies to Edit Your Novel Faster

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In Story Clarity, we’ll work one-on-one to sharpen your story’s structure and craft a revision plan that works. If you’re ready for thoughtful, personalized feedback from an editor who gets what you’re trying to do, I’d love to hear what you’re working on.

Get started by telling me about your story here.

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Your Next DraftBy Alice Sudlow

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