Overcoming the Post-Summer Slump

As the lazy days of summer fade into the crisp routines of fall, many writers find themselves staring at a blank page, wondering where their creative spark went. The “post-summer slump” is real—especially for Christian self-publishers juggling family vacations, outdoor adventures, and perhaps a much-needed break from the keyboard. But here’s the good news: this lull isn’t a dead end; it’s an opportunity for renewal.

First, acknowledge the slump without shame. Summer often disrupts our rhythms, leaving us feeling scattered. In Ecclesiastes 3:1, we’re reminded that “there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Your summer rest was a season of recharging—now it’s time to transition.

Rebuild your routine with small, intentional steps. Don’t overwhelm yourself with a 2,000-word daily goal right away. Begin with 15 minutes of free-writing or brainstorming. In my experience reviving this blog after a family tragedy, starting small helped me regain momentum.

Tie your writing to a daily quiet time; let God’s Word fuel your words. Tools like a simple planner or app can structure this, but remember: consistency trumps perfection. Reconnect with your “why” to spark passion. Why do you write? For Christian self-publishers, it’s often about sharing redemptive stories that point readers to Christ. Revisit your mission—maybe reread fan emails or testimonials. Surround yourself with inspiration: join a writers’ group, listen to podcasts on Christian fiction, or attend events like the ACFW conference (September 4-6, 2025). Community combats isolation; as Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

I have been writing professionally for 13 years, and one thing I know is that summer comes with distractions and a lack of a good schedule. Now it’s time to get back to work! Combat distractions head-on. The post-summer world buzzes with back-to-school chaos and holiday prep, but set boundaries. Designate a sacred writing space, free from social media pings. Techniques like the Pomodoro method—25 minutes focused work, then a break—can rebuild discipline.

If research stalls you, tackle it in bite-sized chunks. Celebrate progress and extend grace. Track wins, no matter how small—a finished scene, a plot breakthrough.

Remember, God’s not in a rush; He’s crafting your story too.

Overcoming the post-summer slump isn’t about forcing creativity; it’s about aligning with God’s rhythm. As you step into September 2025, embrace this as a harvest season for your words. Your stories matter—they could change lives for eternity. So, pick up that pen, pray boldly, and write on. You’ve got this, fellow Christian author. Let’s make this fall your most productive yet!