Am I the only writer who only gets good ideas ten miles away from my computer, paper and pencil and even my dumb smart phone?
I’m relatively sure tech isn’t out to get me, (yet.)
But, every single time I create time and space to write, writing process is akin to pushing an insecure stack of snow bricks up a hill. As soon as the process begins my well form idea comes apart; some bricks in shattered flakes too small to be mended to the perfection of “was.” Other great ideas hit the ground and become so deformed I wonder if they ever were as great as i thought. If i am able to get a portion of ideas written–200 words in a sitting– I fizzle out and step away in exhaustion.
There are day-to-day things that are simpler to address in the moment, like block and quick fatigue. Here’s what I do and why.
if I find trouble getting ideas to the page I Search for related material in multiple formats and explore. usually images stimulate my emotions enough (careful not to over do emotional triggers please, please!!!!) It’s easier for me to write when I’m somewhat emotionally motivated.
If I get tired within a short period, I force myself to leave for ten minutes and find another activity that I can fully focus on. I repeat this pattern until I need a full recharge. This also builds mental endurance so that I can focus longer before needing a break.
If I’m sick with the flu or depressed and writing is torture I stop! I spent two and a half years just writing a draft of SickyBeat because of health issues. Months passed without writing a word and I hated it. Some of my problems were out of my control, but more than a few would’ve been manageable if I took care of myself instead of trying to force out what usually didn’t come. Rest is preparation, NOT failure.
Now that I stopped procrastinating and finished this post I’m going to take my dopamine filled head and get ready for bed! Is there anything you would add to this post?
Goodnight everyone!
