Don't Get Trapped by an Unrealistic Holiday Writing Deadline

by Larry J. Leech II @LarryJLeechII
Holy holiday, Batman! It’s two weeks before Christmas! Two weeks!
Uh, so much to do. So much. Shopping. Baking. Company party. More shopping. A friend’s party. More baking. And, don’t forget, wrapping presents! 
Oh, the stress. So much unnecessary stress.
Stop.
Just stop.
We know this should be the most wonderful time of year. But for many, because of unrealistic goals and expectations, this ends up being the most stressful time of the year.
But it doesn’t have to be. And shouldn’t be.
I know, sounds like I’m getting preachy here, but just my passion coming out to share what I learned years ago—change a self-imposed writing related deadline from December 31 to December 15. I’ve written and spoken about this numerous times. Don’t create unwanted stress. Sit with family and / or friends on December 27 and laugh and reminisce, not think about finishing your book. Or chapter. Or whatever you feel needs done before the calendar flips over to the new year.
Yes, December 31 is an easy date to pick for numerous reasons. But I recommend you pick another date. Years ago, I chose December 15 so I could unwind for a few days from work and recalibrate my brain in plenty of time to get into a festive mood. Just four days away, December 15 might be tough for you wrap up what you want. So, this year, maybe you pick December 18.
Whatever day you pick, allow yourself to take a deep breath, relax, and laugh with family and friends. And give your brain a break from the grind of writing and editing. 
Now, grab your favorite holiday-season beverage (egg nog is mine) and enjoy a truly holy holiday.
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Editor-in-Chief at Bold Vision Books and writing coach of award-winning authors, Larry J. Leech II has spent more than forty years writing and editing. He started his career as a sportswriter in southwestern Pennsylvania where he covered prep, college, and pro sports, including the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. 
In 2004, after 2,300 published articles, Larry moved into the book publishing industry. Since that time, he has ghostwritten 30 books, edited more than 400 manuscripts, and coached hundreds of authors through the writing and publication process. You can find him online on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.