The Writing Life

I am getting back into the swing of things with writing (last 2 days I have written on both Happy AND a fiction piece) and I am searching for ways to keep myself motivated.

What inspires you?  When you are feeling stuck or stagnate in your writing, what do you do to get things moving again?  Are there any surefire ways to get yourself motivated?

Wish I knew the secret, Rebecca. I'd bottle it and make a fortune!

The only way I know to make myself write is to duct tape my butt to the chair and make myself write. I'd probably be more productive writing in longhand with the computer turned off and far away from my fingers. That's how I used to write at this table 17 years ago. The computer changed everything. It made editing easier. There's no illegible handwriting to decipher. But there is an Internet to ignore - and the games!

Think I'll avoid writing today by cleaning house a bit. Maybe I can find my computer a new place to call home and finally use the dining room table as a dining room table again. ;-)

JudyB

Ugg-the GAMES!  I COMPLETELY know what you mean.  I can't get anything done when those stupid games are calling!

I also get more done writing longhand-though I will say it depends on what I'm writing.  For just getting ideas and words on paper, pen and looseleaf is SO much better and I feel SO much more creative.  For editing and revising-I have to use the computer.

I’m not a big history buff, but you did remind me that I really like doing certain kinds of research.  Also, reading a good how to writing book is nearly guaranteed to get my motivation going.  Maybe I can talk DH into letting me buy a new book before NaNo!

I haven’t tried music, but now that I think about it I think it would be a really good idea.  I’m going to try it and see if it helps get my mind going in that direction.  Thanks!