It’s Okay to Not Write

Staring at a blank page, not knowing what to write can seem time-wasting.

That’s because it is.

In the gig era, it’s hard to justify not doing something you like as a side hustle. If you consider yourself a writer, the thought of not pursuing your craft all the time can seem wasteful — lazy even.

What was it, though, that made writing your preferred side hustle and hobby? It isn't your 9–5 for a reason.

Passion drives most writers more than anything. However, even the most passionate of hobbyists and side hustlers hit dry spells occasionally.

Sound advice teaches us to write even when we don’t feel like it. Some days I don’t feel like exercising. It doesn’t mean I should come up with excuses not to.

Writing, however, is different. It’s an art. You must force it if it pays the rent. But if it doesn’t, it’s okay not to write at times.

In Strauss: The King of 3/4 Time, Johann Strauss — played by Michael Riley — plays Beethoven's Waldstein sonata on the piano as stable boy Nicholas — played by Derek Senft — listens.

“Do you think I could write music like that someday?” asks Nicholas.

“Nicholas, if music is in your blood, you will have to write,” responds Strauss. “Nothing will stop you.”