I started writing in earnest around Sept. 1. I want this book done by Jan. 1. I'm beginning to think that's a bit optimistic, solely because the holidays are coming, and I'll have to actually get dressed. I'll have to do some laundry and hang a wreath or two. Maybe roast a turkey. If people didn't have to eat, or have clean underwear, I'd be a much faster writer.
To have more writing time, I'm watching less TV, which I'm sure is a good thing, but I do wonder who got knocked off Dancing with the Stars last week. And I didn't know the government was up and running (amok) again until I got home from my beach week. I do still catch Elementary and Blue Bloods, because Jonny Lee Miller and Tom Selleck are counting on me to stay tuned in. At least, that's what I tell myself.
I'm taking a marketing class and one question that was posed by the instructor was, what are you willing to sacrifice so you can write? How important is your writing? How tenacious are you about finishing/publishing your book? That's really three questions, but she's the boss, so she can ask what she wants. Here's what I've discovered I'm giving up:
Eating healthy.
Exercising every day.
Cleaning.
Cooking well. I'm cooking, but I'm just slapping stuff together.
Reading other blogs.
Trimming my toe nails.
Staying on top of emails.
Reading anything other than THE BOOK.
Returning phone calls.
Getting 7 hours of sleep at night.
I wonder if John Grisham or Ree Drummond started out this way.
I keep at it because I feel called to attempt to publish THE BOOK. I don't know where that comes from, except God, so I'm stumbling along. He's never let me down before.
I won't be doing the NaNonFiWriMo exercise in November and probably not the A-Z Blogging Challenge in April, because I'm going to be writing/publishing/marketing. All these positive, determined statements are part of what I'm learning to declare in the marketing class. Only God knows what the future holds, but by setting these goals, I'm giving Him notice of my agenda. He can take it, or leave it. And I'm sure He will.
OK. Time to pee.
What obsession is running your life right now?
9 comments:
I can see I missed a lot when I was gone. ☺ Congratulations! I'm so happy for you.
My only obsession of the moment is taking care of my husband.....one obsession that is forced on my. Congrats on writing THE BOOK!
THE BOOK! Did I miss the post about what this book is about? Did I have a memory lapse? (a strong possibility, sadly) Can you share something of the topic of the book?
Hope you do make your goal. It's always good to set one. You are one determined lady so I know you'll do good.
Hope you do make your goal. It's always good to set one. You are one determined lady so I know you'll do good.
I've stepped back from blogging and reading blogs too while I work on my book. I'm getting a couple of blogs in now while Castle is on - and I'm wearing my PJs still! - but after that, I'll be back to writing.
I could have written that list (in fact, your whole post). Don't forget to roast the turkey though :-)
Very best of luck with your book, lady! Sounds like you are on the right track. :)
Still on Breaking Bad. SO excited for you!! Keep writing!
I so understand. I just published my first book. And thought I could take a breather and actually have a life. Wrong. Now I'm working on the sequel. But, I tell myself it is worth it. And obsession is exactly the word. We eat, sleep, and work thinking about THE BOOK. I pray for red lights on my commute so I can scribble on a pad with my newest scene idea. A year and a half and I can retire from the day job and write full time on THE BOOK. God bless your endeavor. I know He will!
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