We all know the feeling of writer's guilt—that intense pang that strikes when we're not writing, especially for those who can only write part-time. It's like we're committing a writing sin, a feeling that's all too familiar. But let's be clear: This isn't about procrastination—that moment when we avoid the page for whatever reason. No, I'm talking about those times when you carved out a chunk of time for your writing. For part-time writers, it is most likely over the weekend. However, when that time arrives, you don't feel like it. You experience languidness in your body and mind; you know today will not be a writing day.

We must let go of that guilt. Taking regular breaks from our writing is not just beneficial, it's essential. While I can't speak for fiction writing, the research involved in writing nonfiction can be draining. So, let's embrace the pause and recharge our creative batteries. Even though I am intimately familiar with my topic in a practical sense—having lived for more than 40 years with hearing loss—there is so much about the theory and science of hearing loss I don't know. Although I find the research fascinating, it also contains much information. Taking a break from the research and writing gives your subconscious a chance to assimilate and integrate this information into your current knowledge base. 

Taking a break from writing also frees you from your work. When you return, you can write with a fresh perspective and new enthusiasm. This is especially crucial when we reach the editing stage. Only through distancing ourselves from our work can we be objective enough to ruthlessly 'kill our darlings' as the famous writer Stephen King advises. It is essential to remember that even though you are not actively writing, your subconscious never stops working. It is constantly assessing and analyzing information and coming up with new ideas. Thus, it is not surprising that some of your best ideas will come to you when you are away from your writing environment.

Writing a book is a considerable challenge and requires total commitment. However, it can quickly become tedious since it is such a long-term project. Taking regular breaks from such a project ensures that your writing will still be fun and makes it easier to stay committed to completing your book or project. It is also helpful to remember that even though we are writers, writing is not our whole life. Living a well-balanced life—working, building relationships, and having fun—makes you a better writer and a happier and healthier person. 

Instead of succumbing to writer's guilt, we should embrace the idea of regular writing breaks and their benefits. Let's build these writing breaks into our schedules. However, this doesn't necessarily mean not writing—it can also mean taking a break from your main project and writing something completely different. For example, you could write a guest post, a book review, or even an article on Readers Favorite to share your expertise and writing experience and inspire fellow writers. I hope this has inspired you to let go of writer's guilt and embrace the possibility of regular writing breaks. Will you take up the challenge and see how these breaks help you become a better writer and a more well-rounded individual?