Discouragement can overwhelm us at the most unexpected times and in some unexpected ways. In my writing life I have become discouraged multiple times—and that’s just in the past month! Is there some special method for overcoming discouragement in our writing lives, and generally?
Seeking encouragement
Heading out for coffee (or scheduling a zoom or phone call) with a friend can be all it takes to turn things around. It is quite extraordinary how often writers neglect this simple strategy. Maybe because we’re usually introverts by nature. However, seeking the encouragement of other writers and friends can be a true panacea to discouragement. But not always…
Using discouragement productively
The practical part of me sees discouragement as writing material. Can feelings of discouragement become a bank of inspiration? Perhaps writing down those feelings of discouragement can be an investment in the future lives of your protagonists! But that doesn’t exactly help in the present. There is also the temptation to start something new and shiny, pivot to a different form, or go off on a tangent. But this is not always a good idea.
Overcoming discouragement through God’s sovereignty
Ultimately, when all seems lost, I lean on God’s sovereignty. His ways and thoughts are not ours, and there’s generally a reason that we can’t see for this season of discouragement. (And might never this side of Heaven). Thankfully, we can take heart in the multitude of biblical examples where God has worked all things for good. Which is how we can have confidence in Paul’s letter to the Romans:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
That’s right in ALL things. My other favourite verse to rely upon in overcoming discouragement is Joseph’s words to his brothers:
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. Genesis 50:20
I hope that this will encourage even the most discouraged among you.
Perhaps you have some techniques to overcome discouragement in your writing and your life. Or maybe there are some bible verses that you find particularly encouraging. Please feel free to reach out to share them with me on X (@MeganShortAU).
PS. If you want to go deeper into Joseph’s story, R.C. Sproul gave a lecture some time ago where he outlined how God’s purposes in Joseph’s coat of many colours ultimately resulted in the Exodus of the Israelites. God’s timeline is certainly not ours. You can find that lecture here: