Sometimes you just have to step away for a while.
If you’re feeling burnt out or on the brink of it, and you’re contemplating whether you should take a break from your writing, let me be the first to tell you, “Go for it.”
However, as an intuitive writer, the decision is best made by following your intuition. When your intuition and rational thoughts conflict (and you know you have a natural intuitive sense), trust your intuition. It may not always be right, but it is our innate superpower for a reason.
For those who have been following my work, you might have noticed that I haven’t posted anything on my blog in months. This extended break has turned out to be quite wonderful.
Getting Intimate with My Writing Style
I’ve been aware of being an intuitive writer for some time, but it wasn’t until I stepped away from my blog that I truly got intimate with myself and my intuitive writing style.
As an INFJ, I find solace in solitude to better process information. There are pros and cons to this approach, but ultimately, this experience has left me with more energy, joy, and a deeper understanding of who I am as a writer. I’ve also come to accept that sticking to a strict writing schedule or constantly meeting self-imposed deadlines diminishes the quality and natural flow of my writing in the long run. While it definitely works for a while, it ultimately does more harm than good.
So, out the window goes that notion.
The Intuitive Mind and Creativity
The intuitive mind doesn’t thrive under restrictions, particularly strict ones. Imposing deadlines, whether self-imposed or otherwise, can drain the joy out of our writing.
This causes our creative momentum to slow down or even leads us to abandon our writing for years. I’m part of a writing group where some writers have said they’ve experienced this firsthand.
Therefore, stepping away from time to time and allowing our minds to wander is crucial. It certainly was for me. Words flow more effortlessly onto the page when we give ourselves enough freedom, away from the prying eyes of the world, to connect with our intuition.
A Breath of Fresh Air
Taking a break from writing blog posts doesn’t mean I stopped writing altogether. During these past few months, I’ve dedicated more time and energy to my family, my health, and other writing projects that had taken a back seat.
Forcing my intuitive energy to move in a single direction when it clearly wanted to go elsewhere was a mistake. I had poured more energy into the blog than my intuition desired. Thankfully, stepping away provided me with the opportunity to silence the nagging voice in my head that constantly urged me, “You’re no good if you don’t post! Post now!”
Taking a break from public posting (on my blog, Medium, etc.) was much needed.
Note that a “break” doesn’t necessarily mean taking months off like I did (unless it genuinely feels necessary). Depending on your situation, you might only need a few extra days or weeks.
The key is to follow your intuitive energy. It will feel right when you’re truly in tune with it. I recently stumbled upon this lovely quote that sums it up perfectly: “A gentle breeze knows the way.”
Just like a gentle breeze, let your intuition guide you—it knows the way, even when you don’t.
Newfound Energy
Another wonderful discovery I made during my break is that I’m writing this post with an incredible amount of vigor and enthusiasm. Words are flowing onto the screen effortlessly. I am actually enjoying blogging again as I write these words. Who would’ve guessed?
As an intuitive writer, taking a break can offer more benefits than you realize. It helps you reconnect with yourself as a writer and facilitates the freedom to let your mind wander. This freedom has removed certain creative blocks.
Now that I’m more in touch with my intuition, I will pay greater attention to it and heed its advice. While I have no plans to return to a strict one-article-per-week schedule, I will leave room for possibilities that feel right.
Non-intuitive writers might perceive this advice of “feeling right” as waiting for the muse or mere laziness. This is understandable, however, it couldn’t be further from the truth. Our intuitive minds and creativity work in an unconventional manner.
Not everyone can (or should) work in a straight line. Sometimes, working in a spiderweb-like fashion can be more effective. Those of us who have intuition as our guiding light know this all too well. Intuition runs much deeper than writing. It’s a critical part of our very core as human beings (intuitive human beings).
It’s a New Day
In the past, I used to rush to write, edit, and publish all within the same day. Eventually, I shifted to writing blog posts in pieces within the same week. However, this approach still didn’t feel quite right, leading to the need for a break. Consistently forcing our creativity week after week, month after month, like clockwork, can be detrimental for many creatives in the long run—especially intuitives.
Going forward, I will rely more on my intuition to guide me through blog posts and determine when to publish them. I won’t force myself to write according to self-imposed deadlines. Instead, I am open to writing whenever and however my intuition dictates. If it compels me to write several articles one week and none the next, I’ll be more than okay with that. It’s simply the intuitive way.
To Step Away or Not to Step Away?
Stepping away from writing for a while can provide valuable benefits. It allows you to connect with your intuitive writing style, re-energize yourself, and let your mind wander freely. It did all these things for me, and I firmly believe it can for you too as an intuitive.
Trusting your intuition and being flexible with your writing schedule can lead to more joy and creative flow in the long run. Embrace the intuitive way of working and listen to the gentle breeze of your intuition—it knows the path even when you’re unsure.
Remember, intuition is not only vital for writing but also an essential part of who we are as human beings.
So, is it time for you to step away yet or not?
Jeff Aybar is a writing & creativity life coach for sensitive introverts, Sci-Fi/Fantasy nerd, INFJ, and veteran. Join his newsletter community and receive a free guide for sensitive writers and artists on navigating the creative journey. Discover personal stories, advice, tailored resources, and more by signing up HERE for exclusive content and inspiration.