Laura McBride
I teach composition at a community college, which means that I spend my working life persuading recalcitrant writers to write.
So I use the same tricks I offer my students.
I set a goal - a word count, a number of hours writing without stopping, anything concrete will do - and then I do it. I don't worry about whether I am writing something good or something bad, I don't worry about where the writing will take me next, I don't wonder what will happen if the writing is not right; I don't do anything but stick to my goal and pat myself on the back when I reach it. Also, I add ice cream.
Choose a small task that you know you can do. Do it. Smile. Wait until later to choose another one.
So I use the same tricks I offer my students.
I set a goal - a word count, a number of hours writing without stopping, anything concrete will do - and then I do it. I don't worry about whether I am writing something good or something bad, I don't worry about where the writing will take me next, I don't wonder what will happen if the writing is not right; I don't do anything but stick to my goal and pat myself on the back when I reach it. Also, I add ice cream.
Choose a small task that you know you can do. Do it. Smile. Wait until later to choose another one.
More Answered Questions
Anne MacDonald
asked
Laura McBride:
I almost didn't read beyond the first chapter of We Are Called to Rise because Avis brought up long-submerged anguish. I kept reading, though, and I didn't cry until I read page 197, about what matters in life. I loved that passage. I got teary several more times, including at the very end when you wrote a message to the real people at the center of this tragedy. What a lovely heart you have. ? for Goodreads
Ruby
asked
Laura McBride:
Thank you for We Are Called to Rise. Extraordinary. I discovered it quite by accident, and now know it was serendipity. I usually share my novels, passing them on to the next reader easily. This novel, I will hold. I will keep. Already it looks warm, well-loved, and at home. I'll send my favorite readers a new copy. Are these subjects that interest you, or are you inspired by events, occurrences? Ruby
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