Procrastinate no more ...
I sometimes wonder what is worse ‘procrastination’ or ‘writer’s block?’ Having experienced both I would have to say that for me it’s procrastination. At least when I have experienced writer’s block, I have the intention to write and am keen to see the words flow, but with procrastination I am into avoidance - and that would be Avoidance with a capital A! If I explore a bit deeper into why I am avoiding writing I think it comes down ultimately to feelings of rejection or that somehow my writing will never be good enough. But being pragmatic, even the greatest writers have experienced rejection – it comes with the territory it seems and ‘yes’ I have been there – thanks, but no thanks, we are not publishing this genre at the moment etc. etc. and I have also experienced the exhilaration of seeing my name in print – whether a freelance article, book review, poetry or whatever – it is a great feeling knowing that you can achieve a level of publishing success – no matter whether it is minor or major. And let’s face it avoidance only leads to increased frustration because if you want to write you know that you have something to say, a story to tell. Like me, if you are knee deep in putting things off I recommend small bursts of daily writing to help you get on track. Set a timer – whether the kitchen timer or on a mobile phone say for five minutes and free-write until the timer goes off. Don’t fall into the trap of editing as you go (something I invariably do!) just let it flow. I guarantee that once you start, you will write for more than five minutes. Give it a go and let me know if it unlocks your creativity and helps overcome dreaded procrastination!