It could be that you haven't found your unique writing style or you're putting too much pressure on yourself. Take a break, do some reading, and come back to it with a fresh mind.
First, take a break. Sometimes stepping away from your work can give you fresh ideas. Read other novels in the same genre for inspiration. Outline your story if you haven't already. This can help you organize your thoughts and keep the plot on track.
Join a writing group or find a writing partner. Having someone else to share your progress with, get feedback from, and be accountable to can really boost your motivation. They can also offer fresh perspectives on your work and inspire you with their own writing. Another way is to constantly remind yourself of why you wanted to write the novel in the first place. Maybe it's to share a story that's important to you, or to prove to yourself that you can do it.
Go back to the basics. Review the initial concept of your novel. Maybe you've strayed from your original idea and that's causing the block. Try writing short scenes or dialogues instead of focusing on the whole chapter or plot. This can get the creative juices flowing again. Also, exercise can help clear your mind and reduce stress, which might be contributing to the block.
Begin with research if your novel is set in a particular time or place. For instance, if it's a historical novel, learn about the era, the social norms, the language used, and the daily life of the people. This knowledge will not only make your story more accurate but also give you inspiration for plot points and character development.
If you're struggling to write a novel, consider your motivation. Why do you want to write this novel? Revisit your initial idea and passion for it. Maybe you need to do more research on the topic or setting of your novel. This can add depth and authenticity. Don't be too hard on yourself during the writing process. Accept that the first draft doesn't have to be perfect and that you can always revise later.
Read a lot. Reading different types of stories can expose you to various writing styles, plots, and characters. It can inspire you and give you new ideas. Also, start with a simple outline. Decide on the main characters, the setting, the problem, and the solution. This will give your story a basic structure to build on.
One way is to change your environment. If you usually write at home, try going to a coffee shop or a park. A new setting can stimulate your creativity. You can also try writing from a different character's perspective. This can open up new plotlines. And don't forget to exercise regularly. Physical activity can clear your mind and boost your energy for writing.
One tip is to start with a simple idea. For example, think about an interesting character or a unique setting. Then, build the story around that. Maybe you have a character who is a detective in a strange, futuristic city. You can start to imagine the kinds of cases they might solve and the people they would meet.
Here are some recommendations for novels similar to Struggle in the Harem:
1. Book of Troubled Times
2. [Spirit Realm Walker]
3. The Tang's Table
4. The King of Familiar
These novels all had strong, decisive, smart, and witty female protagonists, similar to the female protagonists in Struggle in the Harem.