I’ve got a bad case of writer’s avoidance. It’s annoying.
I wrote 1,500 words in Bringing Stella Home today, and about 800 words of outlining. That might seem like a lot, but when you consider how much free time I had today, it’s really not that much. Blarg.
I’m all moved in to my new place, with my class and work schedule all worked out, my insurance paid for, groceries in the fridge, books on the shelf (or boxed in the closet–not much book space, considering that Ben’s already taken most of it!), etc etc. I even went on a date last night–a really awesome one! So it’s not like I can say “I had chores” and use that as an excuse.
Part of the problem, though, was that I didn’t have this particular section very well planned. Without having a good macroscopic view of the novel, it’s hard to revise things right. Fortunately, I took a step back today and planned out the next three chapters or so. That should keep me going strong for a while.
Whenever I stop procrastinating and just write, I usually dive right into it. It’s thinking too much about it before I start that really holds me back.
So, no more thinking–just doing.
Tomorrow is the last Friday before school starts, and the last 100% open day I have before the craziness begins. Here’s what I plan to do:
- Cook chili (all from scratch–I’m soaking the beans tonight).
- Pick up tupperware and a cutting board from DI.
- Read and critique the stories for writing group.
- Read required readings for Poli Sci 309R (or, if not, at least on Saturday).
- Go to the temple–gotta go to the temple before school starts.
- Catch up a bit on the blogging backlog (and boy is it LONG).
Hopefully, in between all of that, I can knock off a chapter or two. My goal: 4k words. Gotta buckle down!
In related news, I got an amazing compliment from my friend Drek! We were chatting online, and this is what he said:
Ben: Just remember you have to find a girl BEFORE you become an incredibly famous novelist, or you’ll never know if your wife married you for your money or your looks.
me: ha
ha
ha
no, I”m probably going to be poor and destitute all my life
working a day job
Ben: No way, I predict you’ll be a professional author within five years.
me: thanks
but will it be enough to make a living?
lots of bestselling authors still have day jobs
Ben: Eh, you’ll have more of a day “hobby” just so you can earn some play money.
me: perhaps
Ben: Anyway, see you on Saturday!
Thanks Ben! I haven’t really thought of it that way (I don’t dare get my hopes up), but that would be awesome if things worked out that way. That’s the goal, in any case. I just hope I can keep my head out of the water after I graduate!
Finally, I’ll leave you with some awesome Celtic music–part of the reason I haven’t been writing!
