They sat on the kitchen table and boy, did the smell good! Every time I saw them, I smiled. Not only were they stunning, they represented the bright new future ahead of me.
Write every day. Put out a book every three months. I have nothing but time. Pour myself into my new life.
Yesterday, I threw the wilted and dead roses in the trash.
Again, the symbolism was strong. In over a week, I haven't written a meaningful word. Lots of blogging, lots of promo for Mississippi Blues. But new words? Nada. Nothing. I have good intentions...get up early, get in a chapter before lunch. Do housework and other chores in the afternoon.
Snort.
So far, playing on Facebook has been a HUGE draw.
Maybe I need to go back to retail to be productive....!
What about you? What motivates you?
Congrats. It takes time to realize you're a full time writer. I retired last July and love writing full time, except I still haven't found a way to write 8 hours as if it was a real job. My hubby, family, housework, and even my dog and cat requires some of that time. Did I mention twitter, facebook? All I can say is good luck in organizing your time. You'll get there.
ReplyDeleteOh, it's so *weird* to adjust to full-time-writing. I had a LOT of days like that when I started freelancing. Still do, if I'm honest. I say start small - make a daily goal of 1,000 words. Try different times of day. In a week or so think about when its easiest to concentrate or knock out 4 chapters. You'll find a rhythm that works for you, promise.
ReplyDeletePS: I totally think you should call him Mr. Cowboy. Because he IS!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Kristina, set a goal and stick to it. Being flexible works best for me. When an idea strikes I like to get it down and am willing to put chores and such a bit behind. If the chores are pressing I will at least take the time to jot down the idea or scene. But we are each different. Some need a set schedule to stick to.
ReplyDeletePromotion and marketing take up a lot of time. But your main problem may be discipline. You're used to working around your job, not your only job is writing. So set your work hours and stick to them. Unplug the internet if you must. If you have a Mac, there is program to do it for you.
ReplyDeleteI hear you! I'm leaving my full time day job this year to write too. I figure I'm not getting any younger and I want to give this a go! All the best of luck!
ReplyDeleteFab leaving your full time job, D'Ann, nice one. It's tough though, settling into write. Play about with where you write maybe? As you are used to leaving the house for your old job, maybe leave the house as you would normally, and try writing in the library or coffee shop. I love the coffee shop because (very vain this) I feel super cool sitting there typing away busily, ignoring every one around me. (is that very bad)! I'm sure you'll crack it though!! Have fun!!
ReplyDeletePS it's actually also been proven that the mixture of commotion and calm in a coffee shop is great to get the creative juices flowing!! Essay now finished :)))
ReplyDeletecongrats on your decision to focus on writing. It is harder than it looks, I agree but for me, because I also own a brewery and do marketing and sales for it I have to carve out time for writing. And that keeps me focused on it when I have to be. I will step back from the "6 books a year" thing I've been doing for a couple of years though, as I work on a longer, more mainstream project. Good luck to you!
ReplyDeleteWhen I left the workforce to work fulltime for my husband's home office, it took a long time to adjust. The fridge is only a few feet away! I can go to the bathroom whenever I want! My little dog brings me her toys. Without saying how long it took, I did find my rhythm and have settled into a comfortable routine that includes writing, working, chores, and family. You'll find yours, too.
ReplyDeleteCongrats D'Ann! Unfortunately, I'm the queen of procrastination, so I don't have any good advice. Trying to get where I can get rid of the day job.
ReplyDeleteI have found that the more time I have to write, the less I write. You'll find your routine and congratulations on quitting. Did I tell you I'm jealous?
ReplyDeleteSince you are writing every morning, that's what's important. Don't put too much pressure on yourself. You're doing well!
ReplyDeleteYou've enjoyed your freedom - don't berate yourself. You've got the determination to do it.
ReplyDeleteWelcome to your new life!!!
ReplyDeleteYou will find a balance. It takes time.
You will adjust to the new you, but the new you will need time to find her place in the world, find her routine, her likes and dislikes. The new you may start to see the world differently than the former you, and may even start to write about things the former you never would have considered. Embrace it and look at it like a treasure hunt.
ReplyDeleteJealous as hell, happy as hell, curious as hell about what the future holds for one hell of a writer. Congratulations to you, D'Ann.
Sophia Ryan
--She Likes It Irish
--In The Bad Boy's Bed
I'm not sure what motivates me... Before I was published last year, it was the dream of becoming published and the stories/characters in my head. Now, I'm not sure what does and it too has really hurt my productivity. But I'm trying hard to find the motivation in my stories again. And I think it's working. The only problem now-- Darned promo keeps getting in the way!!!!
ReplyDeleteOH and I LOVE the roses!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks, all, for coming by! I appreciate it!
ReplyDeleteSame thing happened to me when I retired--it will come!
ReplyDelete