When a minor character takes on a life of their own and their subplot adds depth to your overall story. Wes and Stan do this in my novel. They start off as mischievous sprites. Wes becomes brave and discovers a side to himself he never knew he had. Stan learns not to take things at face value.
Completing a story, particularly a novel. It is an achievement. Just how many half completed manuscripts are out there somewhere? Millions I expect. I've only ever not completed one short story and I know it was because I didn't outline thoroughly enough before I started it. I hope at some point to go back to this one and rectify my mistake, then hopefully I'll actually finish the story. I expect some distance, in terms of time, will help me here.
When the one-liner doesn’t work as well as you’d hoped!
Having to take a out a minor character because they don’t develop the plot. And if any character doesn’t advance your story, you have to kill your darlings. Better that than allow such characters to kill your story with boredom.
When you think you’ll never finish the tale!
Not being able to get the words out quickly enough when the inspiration really flows.
Being creative in any form is therapeutic but I find joy in seeing my words coming together and forming a story. And yes there’s the joy of getting your view of the world across in a way that won’t turn others off. After all it is a story you’re telling, not a lecture you’re delivering.
Going to conferences like the one held at Winchester annually and always coming away feeling invigorated, justified in what you’re doing, having enjoyed the company and picking up loads of new tips. The Bookfair is a joy to rummage through too - I always come back with a volume or two.
How can producing stories not be a positive thing? With so many horrors (usually man made) going on in the world, coming up with tales to entertain has to be something on the credit side for humanity. The creative arts in general terms are good for us. And can reflect well on us.