It’s Time for Some Serious Writing . . . Oooooo, Shiney!

So, here is what’s been happening to me lately.  Internal monologue begins . . .  “Let me just check Twitter before I get started.  Oh, look at this blog; let me just read this really quickly then I’ll go work.  He’s so right; let me respond to this blog first.  Wait, what’s going on at that LinkedIn discussion?”  And so, away I go on social media tangents rather than focusing on book two, which is waiting impatiently to be written.  Heck, the other day I almost applied for a voluntary book reviewing job for a fantasy website.  What was I thinking?! (Or, was that missed opportunity? Hard to tell these days.)  Now, I am well aware that as an indie author, there is a necessary need to be plugged in for book promotion, networking, and so on, but there is also a need to unplug for the sake of the craft.  I find that I’m becoming so connected to fellow writers and readers that I’m becoming disconnected from my own writing.  Being the overly reflective and analytical person that I am, I’ve come up with a few solutions.·         Many writers do this already.  If not, commit to one or more people to form a writer’s workshop/group that meets on a regular basis.  I have recently done this, and it already is having the necessary effect.  Knowing I’ve got a deadline and my friend Margaret is waiting for my next installment keeps me aware of my duty to my current work.·         Pick up a journal or your laptop and go somewhere new to brainstorm about characters, plots, events, and details.  Instead of feeling the need to complete an entire chapter, story, or article, write short inspired pieces and worry about connecting to the whole later.  I recently had the great fortune to spend some time in a cabin on a lake which led to several pages of imagery-laden prose for different scenes in book two.  Sometimes, a coffee shop or outdoor park will do the trick just as well.·         Recognize that you have a social media addiction and learn to just say “no” when it’s writing time.  You don’t need a 12-step program to break free; just a little self-discipline.We all know the Writing 101 adage, “write a little every day.” I suppose writing a thought-provoking blog would count (wink, wink).  However, as a writer, you must remember your ultimate goal—to add something every day toward a publishable work.  This includes writing notes on characters, plot twists, or outlining an article.  I’m afraid this does not include tweets or comments on blogs, Facebook, and LinkedIn discussion groups.So, when you’re about to settle in for some serious writing time, and you suddenly feel like the dog Doug in “Up” with that Internet icon staring at you (Squirrel?), just look away and use that gift you were given for a reason.  Anyone else with focus-friendly tips, feel free to share.