Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Picking Things Back Up

I feel like I'm in a AA meeting, but for writers.  Here it goes, "I am a procrastinator.  I've not always been like this, but here for the past months my priorities have been every thing else, other than my writing."  I think this is the first step that everyone has to recognize.  My everyday life seems to prevent me from accomplishing any of my reading and writing goals.  It doesn't help that I'm still a full time student, mom, and now managing a restaurant that has my sleeping, eating, and studying habits all shot to hell.  These are all excuses that we can relate to. 

A few weeks ago after the writers conference, I picked up the first recreational reading book that I've read in months.  Life has kept me so preoccupied and I have forgotten what I enjoy to do so much.  So, I finally read Water For Elephants, which was phenomenal, and finished a book by Deanna Reybourn, an author I met at the conference called, The Dead Travel Fast, which was also amazing. Just doing this, and getting past my finals for the semester has kicked me into high gear to not only read more books at any chance I get, but to also pick up writing on my book again. 

The truth is life throws us dodge balls, and we try not to get hit too much or too hard.  I have now set a goal to write everyday at a minimum of 200 words a day.  I know this isn't a super amount, but I figure every little bit helps.  If I can get back to writing and reading, I know this book can be finished before the end of my summer break.  This is my goal.  It's approximately three months to do what I can do the best way I know how.  Now, it's your turn.  Have you been letting life come before your ultimate goals?  My suggestion, kick yourself in the ass and get to work.  MAKE TIME.  

3 comments:

Elizabeth Seckman said...

I think you're doing it right. When overwhelmed, keep the goals small so you don't get frustrated.

Stacey Hays said...

I'm glad someone said it! Procrastination is the root of all evil...luckily, I've been editing my manuscript like crazy. It's taking me forever but I'm doing it!

Jennifer Nichols said...

Ah, my biggest weakness. I hate to think about how many books I could have written by now if I hadn't given into the ultimate doom that is procrastination. We must find a cure for this disease! lol