Screenwriting : Apprehension at starting a new script by Travis Seppala

Every time I sit down to write, but somehow it all comes together. You're not alone!

It happens to me on a regular basis. I think to myself if I have what it takes to do this or not. But, I keep moving forward. Always.

I definitely know that feeling, but once you get in a groove, you'll notice the talent is still there, I'm sure

When I start to dry up and music doesn't nudge me, I know it's time to start a non-writing project: i.e. read a history book, watch a classic noir I haven't seen, write/deliver a paper for a conference, go back to writing a flash fiction piece which usually turns into a novel or a novella, research the markets, or say a rosary. Sometimes lass is more, and that goes for writing, too.

Sometimes "I don't got it anymore" creeps in, Travis Seppala, but I'd gotten better at shutting it down pretty quickly.

You’ve got it Travis!

Nope

It's tempting to think that, but really, scripts come from writing scripts. Once you start, I'm pretty sure just working on it will open you up to ideas. Then, the hard part might be processing all of them. Good luck!

No.

If one story seems to suck, move on to the next. I have a large collection of first attempts.

No. I follow the work process I have and it just goes with the flow...If maybe writing poetry, I'd hit some walls...

As Coppola stated, any artist that doesn't face self doubt every once in a while isn't truly an artists. Happens to the best of 'em. Push through, you'll find your stride.

I think that the fact that you're asking the question proves that you still have it. It means you're still hungry for expression. This happens to all of us and like others have said or implied, you're not alone in this. Keep going. You've got this.

On the self doubt thing. This sounds like I am tricky myself. But if I doubt myself, I am not trusting myself, if I am not trusting myself, my believe the doubt. It is coming from a place I don’t trust.

So I look at evidence based on previous experience. Have I written good stuff before. I choose to trust in that.

Somethings work and some thing don't. Just keep moving.

Yeah I definitely get this at times :) - especially recently as I'd taken some time out and I'm coming back to it, warming my muscles back up - so to speak.

Similar to what other people have said you're definitely not alone in this. Personally I find sometimes this kinda second guessing can sort of feel like writer's block before I start - whether that's a new piece or an edit.

As some people have said writing gets writing so keep going and keep playing. You got this!

Maybe find some exercises or writing games to help break the doubt down? That's what I try to do - do something short-sharp an unrelated which is fun and reconnect with your writing-gut/heart again.

sheepishly raises hand

I thinks it's good to take a break every now and then to refuel and refresh yourself so that you will always "have it".

Every time I open up Final Draft! Just write, even for 10 minutes. Even if you don't feel like it - in fact, especially then. Something will come - it might not be good - but it's something. Not every day is great writing, and some days you need to have a pattern interrupt and walk away from the keyboard. I get fresh ideas when I'm driving around, working out, taking a walk, or letting my mind wander in a coffee shop. These all add to the roster for the next writing session and remind me I haven't lost it, and maybe The Muse has just had a break. There's a great TED talk by Elizabeth Gilbert from 2009 on Your Elusive Creative Genius I'd recommend to every creative.

I agree with Bill. Best thing to do is just keep going.

I think people change overtime so even if your writing style changes or your interest you still "got it" it just may be a different "it".

The support and advice here is phenomenal. Love to see it.