From June 21, 2011
With the release of Eyes in Atlantis, I've encountered a lot of responses to me being a writer, like "You wrote a book?" or "I can't believe you actually wrote a book!" or "I don't have the patience to write a book." or "Where do you find the time?" or "How did you do it?" Well, I wish the answer was simple and easy, but it's not. So, here I start a series where I share with you some of my magical (albeit not magical) secrets about being a writer. Actually finishing a project is hard, patient, and laborious. Not to mention the level of discipline needed to get from page one to page end. I'm not trying to toot my own horn, as it took me 2.5 years to write my first book and 2 to write my second. Simply put, if you don't sit down and do it, it just won't get done. Which brings me to today's secret: Procrastination! It's an epidemic, as any college student will tell you. And for writers, its no different. I read an article once that said the only person who needs a glass of water more than a child in the middle of the night is a writer. We'll find anything to deter us from our work, like getting a glass of water, doing laundry (cuz' it needs to be done), painting the kitchen, checking FaceSpace, or Twittering friends (haha, sounds dirty). Hell, I've even used blogging as a form of procrastination. It's not to say that writers are lazy or easily distracted (like me), it's just that writing and getting 'into it' can be scary and hard. Sure, it's fun when you're in there, but leading up to it...you notice that the lawn needs to be mowed. Don't look for words of inspiration from me to get going on that project you've been stalling on for four months. As a writer, procrastination is an ongoing struggle. Some days are better than others (for real). Okay, I lied. Here' s your inspiring note. It feels great once it's completed. I just finished a chapter in The Last Day that I've been procrastinating on since April and I feel damn accomplished right now! I also know the great feeling of finishing a book (x2), and that helps to drive this boat home. So...what are you waiting for? Go! GMG