Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Setting Goals, Defeating "Writer's Block"

I used to believe in writer's block, but as I've gained a more professional view of writing, I've decided that's just an excuse not to put out some words. Sure, the words may be crappy, but I've found the best way to get past a writing hurdle is to plow right through it if you have to. You can always go back and fix it later, sometimes it's more important to get it all out on "paper" first.

To mend my need to be lazy (which is when I claim writer's block), I have set out goals for myself each day. Right now, I live by minimums, since my kids take up so much time. I write at least 1,000 words a day. I am happy if I get more, but I force myself to write at least that. Sometimes it's tortue, sometimes I think the words are pure crap, but I'm always happy I trudged along a got something done! That's 7,000 words a week, I say to myself, that means I could finish my first draft in a month!