I’ve fallen off the proverbial wagon.
Perhaps, in part, because I didn’t take part in ROW80 last round. I love that challenge…the writing challenge that knows you have a life. And while it is great for accountability, I found myself actually writing less and just trying to keep up with the social media, the blog reading and commenting, and simply maintaining my blog.
And then it happened. Life. Things got crazy, priorities shifted, and the creative well hit a drought. I started doing Morning Pages in an attempt to at least write every day. Even that is hit and miss.
We’re back to stating our intent with ROW80 for the final round of the year. I’m on the fence. On one hand, the accountability is awesome. On the other, if I’m going to ever publish…I have to write.
As I mentioned Sunday, I have opened my WIP files for the first time in what feels like forever…which I know is closer to a month by the modify dates on the files, LOL.
The thing is, I have discovered from past experience that accountability goals are easier to do and meet when I’m drafting. Revisions and rewrites and edits, not so much.
That life thing, still crazy. Most of which I’m not in a spot to share. And I’m distracted.
Stands.
Dusts off bum.
Grabs the tailgate.
Sep 25, 2012 @ 05:51:43
Hmmm…That darned four letter word. Life. For such a small thing it sure packs a might punch.
But you are right. You want to publish. Something will have to take a bit of a sacrifice, or at least you’ll have to take a step back from things for just a second, look at the big picture so you can needle down to the little things that matter most and start chugging on what you want to accomplish most.
You want to publish. So you must write. I’m not to thrilled with my social media work as of late but I can say that stepping back from the social media a bit opened up a little more time to chug it out on the WiP, the one you’ve helped me get into shape to publish. And if I can repay the favor, please let me know
Sep 25, 2012 @ 07:16:21
It’s always the little words that kill you, isn’t it?
You’re right Angela, something has to give. There is only so many hours in a day and I know I need to prioritize better. But I’m dusting myself off and picking myself up…
Thanks Angela. Meeting you through Maria has been a highlight on this journey.
Sep 25, 2012 @ 06:11:34
I have to agree, ROW is great for connecting with other authors. I had fun. But I also had to get out because it was taking away from my writing time. I know the goals are customizable, but when you’re trying to be fair and read others’ blogs, you tend to lose yourself.
I hope you’re able to get back on the wagon next month. Take a few days to recharge, reflect, and revitalize. I’ve noticed since I “slacked off” on a few of my goals, my editing (while still tedious) has become more focused and reaped more beneficial results. I know you’ll find the balance soon.
If you need me to read anything, help get you back on track or just someone to chat with, let me know!! ~~hugs~~ to you Texas
Sep 25, 2012 @ 06:12:50
Oops! Supposed to be hugs to you FROM Texas. lol
Sep 25, 2012 @ 07:22:30
“when you’re trying to be fair and read others’ blogs, you tend to lose yourself” — so true, and perhaps a part of what happened. I’m a multi-tasker but this juggling is for the birds
Thanks Melanie. So glad we connected!
Sep 25, 2012 @ 06:48:22
Omg, I am sooo pleased that other people are also finding it hard to blog regularly, let alone actually write! Where the hell does the ‘writing time’ go?? Missed reading your blog. Gonna start prioritizing better …
Sep 25, 2012 @ 07:27:54
I think every blogger hits that wall Claire. And, I think (hope), once I rebuild my post cushion the blogging piece will fit better. Prioritizing…it sounds so easy, doesn’t it? I need to be better about clicking through from Google Reader.
Thanks Claire!
Sep 25, 2012 @ 10:35:54
I hear you. Life has a way of getting craziest when we have the least amount of time to deal with it…
Sep 25, 2012 @ 11:07:56
So true. Where’s that magic wand? LOL
Thanks Nicole!
Sep 25, 2012 @ 11:49:56
Glad you’re doing this round. I’m with you, it’s hard to get started writing, although once I get started I don’t have much trouble keeping going.
Sep 25, 2012 @ 13:29:26
I’m still on the fence John. I’ll be gone for the start of the round so if I join it’ll be a bit later. And I’m like you when it comes to that first draft…it’s these revisions that knock the wind out of my sails, LOL
See you around the Round
Sep 25, 2012 @ 12:38:20
I do better with ROW80 too. The accountability and encouragement really help me. Even when I fall short of my goals, I still see progress. Best wishes tackling your WIP, Raelyn!
(And hey, you’ll be armed with more information from Scrivener class to make it go well.)
Sep 25, 2012 @ 13:31:31
Thanks Julie…and one can only hope
I need to get through this weekend first then I can revisit whether or not I’m in ROW80 Round 4.
Sep 25, 2012 @ 13:50:24
You poor kid. Would it have anything to do with having four boys and a husband underfoot? I used to fret a lot when life got in the way, especially when friends bragged how much they wrote that week. Now I let it slide. It’s not a race. If I don’t finish a book this month, I’ll finish it next month. No biggie.
Here’s a tip I use when I edit. If the draft is complete, I will open the document to a random scene and review. If it can stand up on its own. I move on to another random section. Deep down I know which scenes need help. If I can isolate them from the rest, I have an easier time being brutal when necessary.
Sep 25, 2012 @ 15:21:30
LOL, just a wee bit. I don’t get bogged down by others doing more/better…we’re all at different stages of the journey.
Fabulous tip Maria! Thank you. After I’ve fixed the darn plot line I may just do that
Oct 02, 2012 @ 10:40:02
I hope you’ll join us for R4, but either way… I’ll be stopping by and encouraging you to keep the words flowing. Round 3 was tough for me, as it seemed to be for many, so let’s band together and show 2012 what we are made of. (I’m trying to sound cheery, is it working?!).
Oct 03, 2012 @ 10:06:43
LOL, cheery indeed. Thanks Tia.