I have fragments of different ideas but am struggling to choose one
Here's a problem. I've always wanted to be a writer. I was good at writing all my life: essays, emails, diary entries, even short stories.
Recently I've put up a goal for myself to take writing seriously but am unable to choose an idea. I have so many interests. For example, I have a bit of an idea for a fantasy novel. Another is an immigrant literary fiction. The third is a middle grade adventure.
There are two factors to this problem as well. One is that I am not confident enough in my writing and am getting overwhelmed seeing the entire process all the way through, and am working to think of it as a project and not a job.
The other issue is that I am struggling with my career at the momet and am having problems putting in efforts through uncertainty. I know people use writing as an escape, but I am so wrapped up in it that I feel unable to break the habit of believing in my writing.
I feel like having more info would help me actually write the story. At the end of the day, thinking about writing is NOT writing, and I know that. I'm unsure where to start. A part of me thinks outlining would help, but also I am a pantser.
So any advice for me?
TLDR: I am passionate about writing but seem to have lost the spark because I am overwhelmed with how big the process of publishing is.
Posted Jan 14, 2026, 3:13 AM UTC