Summary

The author, Noah Nelson, shares their experience of taking a break from writing on Medium due to a busy period in their life, detailing the positive outcomes of this decision.

Abstract

Noah Nelson, a senior at the University of Illinois, has recently returned to writing on Medium after a hiatus prompted by the transition from a summer job to the academic year. During this break, Nelson found that not writing every day allowed for more time to read and observe, leading to a surge of new ideas. He emphasizes the importance of taking mental breaks from writing to recharge and gain fresh perspectives. Nelson reflects on how the break helped him return with renewed energy and excitement for his writing projects, suggesting that such breaks can be beneficial for other writers as well. He concludes by expressing anticipation for future writing endeavors and encourages others to embrace breaks as a means to enhance their writing skills.

Opinions

Taking a break from writing can lead to the generation of more ideas.
Regular reading and observation of the world are important for creative inspiration.
Mental breaks are necessary to maintain enthusiasm for writing and prevent burnout.
Time away from writing can improve one's writing quality and productivity upon return.
Writer's block or a lack of ideas can be addressed by stepping back and clearing the mind.
The author believes that breaks from Medium can be beneficial for writers struggling on the platform.
Nelson values the time spent with loved ones and personal interests during his break from writing.
He is optimistic about the future of his writing and encourages others to pursue their writing adventures.

I Took a Break From Medium

Sometimes you just need to be away.

You may or may not have noticed but I’ve recently taken a break from Medium.

It wasn’t because of any issue. It wasn’t because I didn’t I want to write anymore.

I just needed a break.

Between ending my summer job and beginning senior year at the University of Illinois, I haven’t had much time to write. I know, I know, that’s pretty selfish.

But sometimes taking a break isn’t so bad.

It actually has benefited me in many ways. Here’s how it could help you too:

I Gained More Ideas Over Time

When I wasn’t writing each day, I still read as many books, articles and the like as much as I could. And it was great.

The more I read and the little I wrote, the more ideas churned around in my head. I wrote so many that I have no idea if they will all be published one day.

But more ideas are better than none at all.

When I came back from my hiatus, I felt a kind of energy I hadn’t felt in a while. I was excited about my ideas and couldn’t wait to write them.

Because I didn’t write as much each day, I had more time to observe the world around me. Thus, more ideas were born.

If you haven’t done this before, it may do you some good. Who knows, maybe you’ll find your next great idea on hiatus.

I Took a Mental Writing Break

I love writing. I love everything about it.

But sometimes, like everything else, you just need a break.

When I did so, I found more time to be with the people I love, do the things I love and accomplish more in the process. It also let me recharge my batteries too.

A few weeks ago, I couldn’t come with any ideas. I couldn’t discipline myself to write. So I needed to clear my mind.

When I did so, I have now come back better than ever before. And it can happen to you too.

If you have days when you just can’t write or nothing seems to be working, walk away from it. Then come back later when a clearer mind.

It worked for me, and I know it will work for you too.

Closing Thoughts

In the past six months, Medium has done so much for me. But it was nice taking a break from it for a little while.

If you’re struggling on the platform too, maybe you need a break as well. It may just do you some good.

It’s helped me become a better writer and I know it will help you too.

Wherever your writing adventures take you, I can’t wait to read what you write next!

Happy writing!

Noah Nelson is a senior at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign majoring in journalism with minors in political science and history. He serves as a senior columnist for The Daily Illini, a writer on Medium and the host of his blog called Nothing But Noah. “Life: A Collection of Short Stories” is his first book available now on Amazon.