A book is simply the container of an idea—like a bottle; what is inside the book is what matters.
Angela Carter
When we write, we leave pieces of who we are on the page. For this reason, it can be incredibly difficult or incredibly tempting to shelve a project. If a new idea has appeared and looks tantalizing, it could persuade you to abandon your work in progress; if you’ve already poured a lot of blood, sweat, tears, and money into a project, you might be reluctant to let it go when you know it’s not viable.
So, how does a writer know when to shelve a project? My experience has taught me that there are four good reasons.
Reason #1: It doesn’t speak to you.
Now, sometimes, a project will lose its luster as a result of progressing to a stage you don’t find enjoyable to be in. (For me, that’s the ending. I get antsy!)
But that’s not what I’m talking about. When you look at the core of your story—its themes, its protagonist’s struggles, its beating heart—do you feel like the concept has merit? Do you still feel like it’s a story worth telling, however imperfectly you’re currently telling it? Does it align with the messages you want to share as a writer?
If you answered anything less than a resounding yes to any of those questions, it might be time to shelve the project for now.
Reason #2: You just completed one phase.
Finishing a draft, ending an intense round of edits, publishing—making those kinds of steps is no small feat! It’s only fair to let your brain rest after a job well done.
If you choose instead to push into the next stage of the writing process without pausing, you’re risking burning yourself out. Take a break—even if it’s a short break—to recharge the creative juices periodically. You’ll be glad you did.
Reason #3: You need a break.
In a similar way, it might be a good idea to shelve a WIP when you’re stuck. Like, really stuck. Like, you’ve been stuck for weeks on a chapter or a plot hole, and you just can’t crack it. The biggest risk with doing that is your new projects may distract or in some other way prevent you from returning to it in a timely manner. To mitigate that risk, mark all of your digital and physical calendars with the date you intend to revisit. Honor that commitment to yourself and your work.
Reason #4: Life is telling you so.
Sometimes shelving a WIP has nothing to do with the WIP, and that’s okay. It’s okay to slow down or take a break from writing, and it doesn’t make you any less of a writer.
Are you still not sure?
It’s a big decision! If you’re struggling with whether or not to set aside your project, have a conversation with yourself on the page about it. Do so after a beverage of your choice, when you’re not feeling stressed and your mind is open to any possibilities.
Whatever you decide to do with your project, we hope it fills your writing heart with joy!
