One of the most difficult tasks of a writer is carving time out of the day to write - and then actually sitting down and writing during that time. A lot of the time, I find the latter part of that far more trying. It's one thing to assure yourself you can squeeze in a thousand words or so between the time you get to work, and the time you're actually supposed to start working, but when you're sitting at the desk, bleary-eyed and fug-mouthed, the thrill of creating story is the last thing on your mind.

Most of the time, the answer is "just write". Wield the stick or wave the carrot and just get it done, don't allow yourself to wallow in that "but I really don't feel like it" pity party, because nobody writes in that place. But there are times when it's okay - even a good idea - to take time off from writing. Times when continuing is going to be detrimental to your health - emotionally or physically - and to the work itself. In these situations it's important not only that you take a little time off, but that you give yourself permission to have time off. The difference between guilt-ridden bludging and an accepted break - your conscience can't nag you for something if you've decided that today, you're not going to do it. Which leaves your mind freer for recovering from whatever it is that's ailing you.

When is it okay to call a break for writing? I have a simple test: is this a situation where I would call in sick to work? Then I am permitted to not write.

Unfortunately, it falls down for the jobs where finding a replacement is both necessary and difficult - like teaching. Most of the time I teach when I probably shouldn't, because teaching the class is less effort and stress than calling in sick. But you get the general idea.

Writing takes a hell of a lot of mental energy, and sometimes that mental energy just isn't there, or is needed for other things. On those days, grant yourself a Not Writing Pass and just focus on getting through it. After all, your mental and physical health is far more important than any book or story you're writing.

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