Headspace is something I've been thinking about a lot lately. You have to be in the right mindset if you're going to finish a lengthy, demanding project. And guess what? There are going to be times when outside factors in your life take over, and you simply can't focus on the task at hand. This might last days. It might last weeks. It might even last years. That's okay. Think of it this way: how can you focus on a fictional character's actions in the face of adversity while you are also struggling in the face of adversity? You need a safe mental and emotional place where you can hide out and let your imagination do its work. If, for whatever reason, that cozy place gets disrupted or taken away for a while, don't force yourself to get back to work before you're ready. It might just ruin the project you were working on. There's always more work to be done. Take care of yourself first. Don't forget your project, but know that it'll be there waiting for you when you're ready to return.

Every Wednesday, as I draft my second novel, I will be posting writing tips, advice, and tough love reminders for myself and anyone who may need it. Feel free to share your own.