How to Write in the In-Between


Today’s blog post comes from Proverbs 31 Ministries’ Promotional Copy Writer, Meghan Ryan.

In October 2019, I moved to a new city where I didn’t know anyone. The transition was tough, and for the first several months, I struggled to navigate finding a “new normal.” But by the time the new year rolled around, I was ready to embrace all the newness and start planting my roots.

So I circled a future date on my calendar. I made lists and plans and a few goals. I asked God what He wanted me to focus on this year. I felt confident this was the year I would start blogging again after an almost four-year break.

But then, COVID-19 happened. Everything about life got interrupted. In a matter of days, I was back in my hometown for an unforeseeable length of time, once again navigating a “new normal” along with the rest of the world.

We all go through transitions. Some are planned like moving cities, starting a new job, graduating or getting married. Other times they are unexpected like the end of a relationship or the loss of a loved one. Now, we can even add “international pandemic” to the list of unexpected life changes.

And when those transitions happen, we find ourselves searching for our “new normal.” Whether they are exciting life changes or devastating ones, they can leave us feeling emotional and exhausted, like we are stuck in the “in-between.”

How do we pursue our callings to write in the midst of this? I have found three simple actions which may help in your “in-between” season:

Just write.
This may sound obvious, but in times of uncertainty and transition, writing can be a big challenge. Maybe you’re already mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually drained. The last thing you want to do is write. But, write anyway. Whatever you write doesn’t have to be pretty, blog-ready or even finished work. It can be scribbled prayers in your journal. It can be your thoughts and feelings in the notes app on your phone. It can be an Instagram caption. Whatever you do, just write words during this season. You never know how God might use them now or in the future.

Remember your why.
Why do you write? Who are you writing for? If this season is wearing you out and beating you down, let me remind you: God has uniquely gifted and called you to use your words to bring Him glory. He has written you a story worth sharing. He has put people in your life who will be impacted by how you communicate what God is teaching you. When you pull out your journal or open that blank document, remember why you write.

Give yourself grace.
We are all operating at a lower capacity than normal (even if it feels like we’re working harder than ever!). We are trying to figure out how to adjust daily. The date I circled on my calendar has passed, and I still haven’t accomplished my goal. But I’m writing anyway as I remember my why. I’m giving myself grace as I gradually work myself closer to my goal, trusting God is leading me along the way. He is not asking for perfection or completion. He simply wants obedience.

You are doing better than you think. We are praying for you and cheering you on!

Great news! Registration for COMPEL Writers Training only opens a few times a year, and it’s open right now! Get immediate access to the tools you need to tell your story, as well as a community of like-minded writers, publishing opportunities and more. Don’t wait; registration will be closing soon. Register today!

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Amanda Bacon lives in North Carolina with her husband, Jeremy, and their eight children. She grew up in Alaska, and now lives down South where she works for Proverbs 31 Ministries and loves encouraging women with biblical truth and authenticity. When she isn't driving carpool or feeding people, you can find her writing, reading, or wandering outdoors. Connect with Amanda on Instagram @amanda_bacon_ and check out her brand-new book, Shiny Things: Mothering on Purpose in a World of Distractions.

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Comments

  1. So appreciate this reminder and encouragement, thank you!