Whether you are a plotter or a pantster, it's important to start with at least a little research before diving into the writing advises author and writing teacher Valerie Willis. The amount and type of research required will vary depending on your novel's genre. For sci-fi or fantasy writers, Willis suggests keeping a world building bible where you can track everything you are brainstorming and creating. For other genres, Willis suggests creating vision boards to work through character and scene development. These visual tools will serve as inspiration and motivation throughout the entire process, she says. Additional tips Willis offers for first time novelists include writing your story out of order if needed, avoiding any editing until your first draft is complete, and staying organized to maintain consistency in your story.
This commentary makes sense to me. I am writing my second thriller and have become derailed. Listening to Valerie's comments has convinced me to go back to the story and forget about things I want to change. I can do that later.
I've derailed myself a few times and it comes back to me opening that file and just simply focusing on emptying my head. Revisions are where I add, delete, and tweak things to make the story stronger. I am glad to hear I was able to inspire you to give it another try. I often leave comments or "love letters" for myself that might say "This feels broken, I have no idea." AND THAT'S OK! Sometimes it takes seeing all the parts of the story to know what it broken. Good luck and hope you are able to get back on track!