Grace asked Rick Riordan:

Hey Mr. Riordan! My name is Grace, and I've been a HUGE fan for over 10 years. Your books have gotten me through many a tough time... which brings me to my question. When I write I get into these slumps, not writer's block necessarily, I feel lethargic, overly analytical, and like no one cares except me. Do you ever get into these moods where you feel like what you're doing is worthless? if so, how do you combat it?

Rick Riordan You have very succinctly described the writing process as most writers I know experience it, including me! Not sure if it helps, but you are not alone. There are two bits of advice I can offer: First, and hardest, you just have to write through it. The only way to make progress is to keep producing those words, even (especially?) when it feels impossible and worthless. The second answer is to make sure you are in tune with your own productivity schedule. Are you better at writing in the morning or evening? With music or no? At home or the library or the local coffee shop? Everyone is different. As much as you can, try to maximize the writing at times when you tend to get the most done. For me, sadly, that is the very early morning. I find I am too sleepy to second-guess myself, and I get a lot written. If I try to write at 3pm, forget it. I hit a brick wall. Learn what works best for you! Hope that helps.

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