The Why Behind the Making of Beyond the Rough Draft by Iman Llompart

Let’s welcome back Iman Llompart as she shares with us “The Why Behind the Making of Beyond the Rough Draft.” Enjoy!

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The Struggle All Writers Face

We all struggle.

It’s what makes us human, and as writers, we want our characters to struggle on the page.

That’s what makes them relatable.

It helps readers connect on a deeper level.

It makes them care.

Worry for them.

Crave more.

This is all gold for a writer, unless we’re the ones struggling.

Struggling to connect with our characters, our story, the plot, the theme or, most commonly, wrestling with that voice in our head that says, This isn’t good enough.

Feeling Alone in the Process

Writing can be so isolating that we start to believe our struggles are unique, when most of us in this industry feel the exact same way.

Right now, I’m struggling to finish my romantasy manuscript.

Facing Genre Challenges

At first, it was the genre itself.

I never pictured myself writing romance.

I’ve always read it, yes, but the overt emotion and vulnerability often found in the genre have always made me uncomfortable.

Finding My Own Way to Write Romance

Eventually, I decided to tackle romance in a way that felt authentic to me.

Once I did that, the anxiety began to ease.

Overcoming Intimate Scene Anxiety

Then came the intimate scenes.

For the longest time, I tried to dance around them.

But once I permitted myself to write for me, without worrying about anyone else’s judgment, I dove in, and it started to flow.

My mentor even told me I had a knack for writing those scenes… and the underwater ones, too.

(Still not sure what to make of that.)

Hitting the Rough Draft Wall

Now, I’m only a few chapters away from finishing the rough draft, and yet, something is holding me back.

I’m not surging forward the way I have in the past.

That frustration led me to a realization: I can’t be the only one feeling this way.

Why Sharing Struggles Matters

Talking about our creative struggles, blocks, and doubts can actually help motivate others who are in the same place.

It opens up a community of writers, new and experienced, and offers a peek into their processes, their rituals, and their mantras.

Learning from Other Writers

And when you hear how others push through their blocks or self-doubt, it reminds you that you’re not alone.

It shows you what’s possible.

You’re allowed to borrow those tools, try them on, and use what works for you.

Normalizing Insecurity

By being part of this series, you’ll see that we’re all insecure sometimes, even published authors.

So, if you’re struggling, it’s normal.

It’s part of the process.

An Invitation to Join the Conversation

But if you need a pick-me-up, tune in.

Add your voice to the conversation.

And if you have mantras or rituals that help you break through obstacles, don’t be afraid to share them.

Vulnerability helps others who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or alone.

You never know who needs to hear what you’ve learned.

Introducing Beyond the Rough Draft 

Writers Fun Zone is launching Beyond the Rough Draft, which is currently in the interviewing and editing stages.

So if you’re a fiction or creative nonfiction writer, whether you’re working on your first draft or have several books under your belt, I’d love to hear your story.

Share your challenges, breakthroughs, and wisdom to inspire fellow writers by signing up here: Guest Sign-Up Form

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About The Author

Iman Llompart is a Spanish American writer based in Dubai, raised in Mexico, and currently navigating the final stages of the rough draft of an epic fantasy romance novel. Passionate about storytelling and the writing process, Iman understands the struggles that many novice writers face—the self-doubt, the isolation, and the challenge of completing a book. Through blog posts, insights, and personal experiences, Iman seeks to remind fellow writers that they are not alone on this journey.

When not writing, Iman enjoys reading, deep-diving into writing sessions and lessons, and watching book-based shows and movies. Occasionally, she also braves the unpredictable world of dating—an adventure that sometimes feels more daunting than crafting an entire novel. With a love for words and a mission to inspire, Iman hopes to one day share her finished manuscript and continue helping others through the power of storytelling.

Instagram @imanllompart • Instagram photos and videos

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