When You're Feeling Stuck

I’m stuck. At a dead end. At my wits’ end! I do not know how to handle this new writing challenge.

This challenge is writing code for a new web page design that has become an obsession. I am determined to make it work, though it is beyond what I currently know how to do. I’ve got the basic structure in place, and just discovered one fatal design flaw. I know it can be done. I’ve seen the concept elsewhere.

Right now I’m exploring my options for forging ahead and see that they are not much different for writing code than they would be if I were stuck writing a story that was mired down. As I see it the options  include:

• Continue by trial-and-error. I know a lot already, and sooner or later I’m bound to stumble on a solution.
• Keep surfing the net in search of solutions. That’s how I learned most of what I know.
• Find a book. I can learn nearly anything by reading about it, and the library is full of books.
• Take a class. I love classes. I learn from the questions other people ask as well as from the teacher’s presentations.
• Find a support group. This could be anything from a friend who knows more about this than I do to an on-line forum.
• Find a coach. This could be the fastest way to get exactly the information I need, presented in a way that next time I’ll know how to do it myself. This is a tempting option, and in some cases the best one.

If I were writing a story, the options would be the same: keep writing, read books, take classes, find a support group (writing group), find a coach, or pay a pro.

In my case now I’m going to keep surfing, work through a couple of online tutorials, and post my questions on a couple of support forums. I’m in a hurry. But I’ll also look for a class to broaden my base of knowledge, and look for  a book on Cascading Style Sheets. 

If you are feeling stuck with a writing project, please join us at the Life Writers Forum by entering your name in the form in the left sidebar or visiting the group’s signup page. Check out the list of NAMW writing classes and teleseminars. Or send me an e-mail for some free advice on your own options.

Write now: make a list of writing skills you’d like to strengthen, then list your options for learning what you need to know to keep your writing growing and thriving.