Express Yourself

What’s Really Holding You Back From Finishing Your Creative Projects

Stop writing out of obligation. Say what you need to say, no matter what.

Illustration: Lulu Jiang

Welcome to The Draft, an advice column about writing and life from Eileen Pollack, former director of the University of Michigan MFA Program. We’re here to answer your questions about story craft, writing, and telling the truth.

Have a question? Share it with us.

Dear Draft,

What’s the best method to establish a daily writing practice? My life seems to be often in flux, and it’s been a challenge to consistently write. I’ve tried writing morning, evening, and weekend. Naps or hunger seem to be the largest distractor.

Signed,
Distracted

Dear Draft,

I’m currently in the midst of a career change. I was formerly involved in strategizing and writing content for a public relations firm, so it was imperative that I focus on the audience and objectives at hand when crafting any written material. Now it feels like I’m stalling in the evolution of becoming a better writer. What do I write when there’s no pressing need presented to me?

Signed,
Stalled