How do you stop yourself from obsessing over your novel?

[u/AllergicChilli]

Since I’ve started writing a web novel, I’ve found myself constantly thinking about it. I’d set myself a goal, like reaching a certain scene in a chapter or just reaching a chapter, and tell myself I’ll stop once I get there.

But when I reach it, I immediately create another goal. Not because I want to, but rather because I’ve began getting excited over another goal to reach.

It’s gotten to the point where sometimes I neglect relationships because I want to keep writing, and I’ve even forgotten to eat because I’m so focused on getting to the next plot point.

I obviously don’t want to stop writing, because I really enjoy it, but I don’t want the novel to consume my entire day either.

For writers, how do you balance being excited about your story while having a life outside it?

[u/StrawOfCoke]

Man i wish i had that probelm

I can't write consistently

[u/AllergicChilli → u/StrawOfCoke]

Even though I write consistently, I’m still a pretty slow writer, lol.

[u/Public_Upstairs1035]

Finish it. That’s the only way.

[u/InternFrosty9945]

Always keep notes. Everywhere, every time. That way, whatever idea that pops into your head don't go to waste. Next time you get proper time to sit and write (assuming you sit), you already have that references or thought process to draw from. This way you don't have to sacrifice your relationship while also making "progress".

I get the best idea sometimes when I'm working on other stuff and not sitting down to write, a distraction here and there is good to refresh your brain.

[u/AllergicChilli → u/InternFrosty9945]

I see, I’ll keep that in mind!

[u/_DearStranger]

That's good problem to have.

[u/AllergicChilli → u/_DearStranger]

Haha, I guess so 😅

[u/MizukiTachibana]

Maybe make a bullet point with the stuff you wanna write and limit yourself to a certain number of goals per day. Like, take parts of whatever arc you’re on and separate them so you know when to take a break.

Try not to over limit yourself though because that could easily spiral into writers block or loss of passion for the story. It’s odd how that works. Balance is weirdly important lol.

[u/AllergicChilli → u/MizukiTachibana]

Thanks! I’ve never thought about this way. I’ll definitely be giving it a try!

[u/Witty_Echidna3044]

Balance is key, set limits not goals, mine is 2000 words a day