When I get
stuck...
Yes, it happens to me. My optimum time for writing is early
morning, which is impossible with my current schedule. So, I write whenever I
can, usually from 8 PM - 10 PM at night. As a result, my energy levels and
clarity are not in tip-top shape.
I've learned the
causes:
1. Not enough sleep
will turn my brain to mush. A couple of nights without at least 7 hours of
shut-eye guarantees problems at the computer.
2. Either life hits
or my schedule gets crazy due to family or church commitments.
3. When I encounter 1
and 2 above, I'm a prime target for writer's block, brain freeze, or whatever
label you want to give it. The word count elephant seems too enormous even when
taking small bites.
Setting myself up
for success:
1. Shut the computer,
pray, and go to bed. Forcing the issue is a waste of time and sets up negative
thought patterns.
2. I build some grace
into my schedule for when I miss a day here and there due to other obligations.
I technically could meet my goal of July 20th by writing 650 words a day. By
writing 1,000+ words a day, I'm increasing my chances of meeting that goal even
if I miss some time. Right now, I'm tracking for late June.
3. I take a short
break half way into my daily word count goal, which is 1,000 words per night. A
cookie, a quick email check, a look at Facebook, or getting my clothes ready
for the next day gives my mind a chance to re-group.
4. Tracking the word
count on a pad is enough to keep me motivated. There's something about seeing
the book grow that develops momentum. Having my agent and one of my critique
partners read the first three chapters and saying they want more also provided
a boost.
5. Celebrate the
mini-goals met: 10,000 words, reaching the 1/3 point, the halfway mark, etc. By
doing this, I'm encouraging myself and focusing on the progress rather on how
much more I have to write.
Writers: What are
your triggers for writer's block? How do you combat it?
Readers: What
motivates you to stick with a big project?
Photo Credit: hisks
3 comments:
Good tips, Susan. I especially like celebrating the milestones. It helps better picture the finish line. Cheering you on! :)
Thanks, Karen! I'm so close to finishing this first draft that I can see the words, "The End," written up ahead. :)
I love that moment when writing a book. You can see the finish line and enjoy the words into you get there.
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