The Death of a Personal Challenge

Yes, I am guilty.

A month ago, I challenged myself to write a piece a day based on songs. I had my songs chosen at random and numbered. I did so good...for the first two weeks. Then I went on an amazing vacation that I sorely needed and the daily challenged was put to rest.

Shocking no one, the end was not where it started. My desire to quit started about four days in.

Writing was easier when a song inspired me; when the idea popped up in full color with a beginning, middle, and end. Though it was vexing when inspiration wasn't immediate, I did like that it forced me to think outside of my usual box and get those creative ideas rolling.

What I hated was the having to get it done...every...day. My kids don't care that mommy made herself a challenge; they care that I'm there to play with them. Work doesn't stop because I'm in a writing rut. Life doesn't give any leeway.

That said, hats off to those authors/creators who can keep up with the daily challenges, because it is not easy.

And while I did have some success with my stories, it really felt like I was drudging 10 gallons of muck for half an ounce of gold. I did and do appreciate the people who supported my writing by reading, liking, and/or commenting; that aspect was so nice and uplifting.

Then, of course, a new story came to life in my head, begging to be born, and I wrote "The Shifter", which also needs to be finished. It's got three chapters left, all of which I have the basis for, they just need the words, so I'm getting there!

All this to say, I still like the idea of writing something based off of a song. Some songs did not need a story, but a poem. Some needed many words, others did not. It made me think and wonder. It's just that dang "daily" part that sucks. So I'll probably pick the idea back up for times when I need to write but don't know what.

Thanks for sticking with me through this confession. Happy reading!