Ever feel like editing your draft drains every ounce of joy you had when writing it? You’re not alone — but I promise, it doesn’t have to be that way.
The Truth About Editing
Editing is supposed to refine, not ruin. But somewhere between chasing perfection and picking apart every sentence, joy can slip right through our fingers. The good news? With a few small shifts, you can reclaim joy while polishing your words.
3 Habits That Steal Your Joy (and What to Do Instead)
1. Editing While You Write
You type a sentence, backspace. Type again, delete. By the third try, you’re convinced you’ll never be a real author.
👉 Instead: Separate writing and editing. Write freely first, edit later. Think of it like baking bread: you don’t pull it out halfway just to poke it. Let it rise, then refine.
2. Expecting Perfection on the First Pass
We whisper to ourselves, “If I were a good writer, this wouldn’t be so messy.”
👉 Instead: Embrace the mess. Even bestselling authors start with sloppy drafts. God doesn’t expect perfection from us — He delights in progress.
3. Editing Without Rest
Late-night editing marathons feel holy… until you wake up the next day and realize you deleted your best chapter.
👉 Instead: Rest. Close the laptop. Pray. Ask God to give you fresh eyes tomorrow. Sometimes clarity only comes with pause.
A Faith Perspective
John 15:2 says: “Every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” Editing is pruning. It’s not punishment — it’s preparation. Your words are ministry, and with every trim, God is shaping them to reach the hearts they’re meant for.
Takeaway for Writers
Editing doesn’t have to steal your joy. With boundaries, grace, and God’s guidance, you can edit with confidence — and even delight.
✨ Want more encouragement + practical editing tips? Grab my Free Faith-Based Proofreading Checklist to polish your words with peace.
Pen and Polish 