“Oh no, what’s wrong,” you might be asking.
It’s simple, I haven’t been writing. I’ve been doing lots of reading: books, facebook, blogs, etc. but I haven’t put my fingers and mind to the task of writing.
How can I say that God has given me a burden to write when I don’t do it? If I was my boss I would fire me.
When I was participating in NaNoWriMo I wrote every day and I was in my sweet spot. I didn’t get a lot of things done in my home, and my relationships suffered, but I wrote. There is a balance between these two, writing and the rest of life, and I will unearth it.
I have always been one of those people who can escalate my work volume when under pressure, not the greatest thing for my health, but I can produce, and do it competently, when I am under deadlines.
Do you need incentives or are you so disciplined that distractions are not an issue? I am not at that place so I need tools to keep my focal point in front of me.
Recognizing that there are lots of publications looking for short stories, the end of the year is a good time for me to start a spreadsheet listing publications and upcoming deadlines for stories.
I can envision myself starting each week at my computer, spreadsheet open, my eyes scanning the list, seeking my goal for the week: Get a story written and submitted. “Isn’t that publication fortunate that I know when their deadlines are so that they aren’t missing my incredible story?” (Smile)
Since I am a target oriented person my trajectory towards the bull’s-eye is researching publications and getting the spreadsheet established. I already have a folder filled with web pages of publications who accept submissions, transferring the information to the spread sheet shouldn’t take much time.
Although writing a full length novel is my goal I am hoping that using the press of meeting deadlines for short stories will keep me writing.
Who knows maybe one of those short stories will be the jumping off point for a new novel.
Photo: Dreamstime
12 comments:
Yes! Keep writing! But don't feel bad if you need to take a break every now and then. I don't write all of the time. My "writing cycle" works before for me. But I'm like you... I need to make some goals right now!
Kristen I fear my breaks are more procratination than taking breaks for refreshing.
Thanks for the encouragement.
It is so easy to procrastinate, but I want to do less of it in 2010 :)
Blessings and thanks for stopping by today.
Kim
I started by writing short stories, like you, and one day I had an idea that was simply too big for a shortie! Keep at it, your next novel (assuming you have already done one for Nano) will happen!
Kim, I'm standing with you that in 2010 you will not be procrastinating but doing all that you have in your heart.
Dirtywhitecandy, Thanks for the encouragement.
It's funny, I was just thinking that if a publisher was waiting for my novel I would be more consistent in writing it. Maybe I'll set a deadline and PRETEND there's someone waiting. lol Like you, I struggle with the balance between life and writing.
I know exactly what you mean. I've been in a little writing slump myself. I'm turning that around today though.
I love the spreadsheet idea, great way to stay organized. But above all writing is key. If I were my boss I would fire me too!
Balance is a hard thing! I'm an all or nothing girl and am not good at that balancing act. I'm hoping to be more disciplined in all areas of life this year. So here's alot praying! lol
Some of that down time can be good. Taking time to read from diverse media is sharpening your axe.
I wish you the best this New Year. And I thank you for your encouragement to me and your friends.
Susan
I liked the line about being fired. I feel the same way about my writing lately. Here's to a more successful year in achieving what the Lord has set before us.
Joanna
.. I need to make some goals right now!
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