A Little Unsolicited Advice

Whoever said anyone can write a book has never actually tried writing one themselves. It takes a very strong, very persistent person to not only start, but to stick with it for the long haul, in my opinion. Fortunately, for me I have a wonderful and supportive community of writers behind me to help and encourage me. Still, even with all of that help and support you have to find the motivation within yourself to get your but in the seat and write. I am the queen of procrastination. 'Just one more chapter of this book and then I'll get to writing', 'Just 15 more minutes of this game and then I'll start writing', After Bones goes off then I'll get to it.' Any of these excuses sound familiar? I know I've used them all then inevitably by the time I'm done 'I'm just too tired to be creative today, I'll get to it tomorrow.' It's a vicious cycle and it has nothing to do with not wanting to write and everything to do with not wanting to face that internal critic.

One of the biggest things that I've done since the last time I posted here is find a critique partner. I have to say that since we started working together my productivity have increase exponentially. I've even managed to get a query out on an old book that I thought would have to be tucked under my bed never to see the light of day. Yeah me! Working with Shai has been great. She's been terrific to critique with because she works with my voice and style instead of trying to morph me into something I'm not. I think in the end I'll have a better book because of it. I'd also like to think that I've done the same for her. I think that's the mark of a good critique group/partner. The last thing I would want is to be part of a group/partnership that tries to change my voice, and make me sound just like them or how they think I should sound. I've heard a number of stories like that. I think that's part of why I've avoided doing something like this for so long.

So, here is a little unsolicited advice. If you are a perpetual procrastinator like me, find yourself a critique group. Making yourself accountable to someone is the best way to keep you on track and if you're lucky you'll wind up in a situation that allows you to create something better then you could have created on your own.

Wow, I know it's been ages since I've posted here and I've made a pact with myself to do better in the future.