11 Comments
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Pete Dulin's avatar

Another overlooked benefit to selective quitting vs. willfully perseverance is the notion of opportunity cost. Doggedly working on a novel or other project primarily for the sake of not quitting drains time, energy, and creative resources. If the inspiration and drive isn't there to WANT to push forward, perhaps it is best to set it aside. Free yourself to what you do want to complete. As the saying goes, sometimes you must empty your cup in order to fill it.

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Grant Faulkner's avatar

Agreed. Perfectly said.

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Alexander Ipfelkofer's avatar

Well said, focus in this world of "constantly online" is important as well, because Substack is swell and all but if you are working on your novel, work on your novel. Focus.

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Creating Ink Stains's avatar

There is a need for moderation in everything, including perseverance. Thank you for this thoughtful reflection. Blessings

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Jean Morris's avatar

Great reflection on quitting vs persevering! This binary is one of the most important dynamics in how we manage our lives, but little discussed, since perseverance is enshrined as the ideal.

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Malina's avatar

Interesting reflections and worth considering. I like that unexpected glee of not doing what is expected. It's good to examine your life and see what would benefit you by quitting.

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Grant Faulkner's avatar

There should be a word for the "unexpected glee of not doing what is expected."

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Karen FitzGerald's avatar

I think there is. Wouldn't "rapture" cover it?

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Michael Mohr's avatar

So you’re going to start posting once every two years? 😂

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Grant Faulkner's avatar

Haha, it is tempting to have an irregular newsletter. I'm still going for once a week, though.

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Michael Mohr's avatar

Once a week is great. I wish I had your patience 🙌

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