One of the things I struggle most with when it comes to writing is my consistence in the art of procrastination. As much as I want other writers out there to buckle down and plant their butts in a chair and as much as I tell myself the same thing, lately it seems like any minor distraction can deter me from writing, mostly the TV.
I think I might be addicted to television. I mean even if I turn the sound down on the TV it doesn’t help but if I turn the TV off then it’s too quiet and I can’t focus when it is too quiet, I need some modicum of sound. And it’s not as if I watch TV for the sheer enjoyment of watching it (at least not most of the shows I watch) but rather I watch it from the standpoint of a writer. I watch the storylines and pay close attention to the dialogue and analyze it in my head as to what I, as a writer, could bring to that TV show or movie.
I am going into detail about the distraction of TV because although I have many other distractions that just come with everyday life and being a mom, the TV is basically my kryptonite and sometimes (not all the time) it weakens my desire to write. Well now that I’ve been honest with myself and you, hopefully I can take the proper steps to resolve the issue of that distraction.
I think when I used to go to Borders to do my writing it got me away from the TV and I felt inspired sitting in the bookstore surrounded by all of these great writers (I mean of the books on the shelves) and it just made me want to work harder. Ever since they closed down Borders I haven’t had anywhere to retreat to get away from the distractions of being home with the TV. I guess I have to find another place now where I can get away and still feel inspired.
I suppose this means I’m not one of those writers who can do my work 100% from the comfort of my home. I guess getting out of my home office will also help me to network with other writers as well. Now that I figured out why I haven’t been writing much lately I know exactly what I need to do to fix it. Well knowing is half of the battle isn’t it? Until tomorrow…It’s good to know your flaws and your weaknesses, because if you don’t know what they are you can’t fix them.
Jimmetta Carpenter
Writer/Editor
The Diary: Succession of Lies (Now Available)
Writing as “Jaycee Durant”
https://writetobe.wordpress.com/
http://unpleasantlyplump.wordpress.com/
http://www.facebook.com/people/Jimmetta-Carpenter/1069480310
Write 2 Be 
It is always a good thing to know your flaws and weaknesses. I too am a procrastinator, but I get around this by challenging myself. So I get stop watch and start it. My goal is simply to write for 20 minutes straight. A writer friend of mine suggested this as she noted that most normal people can focus on things for about that length of time. After twenty minutes take short break and then write for another twenty minutes. You may also want to break down your writing goals to whatever you feel comfortable. You may want to set a goal of wirting say 250, 500, or 1000 words a day. No matter what goal you set just make sure that you achieve that goal everyday. You will be surprised at what you can accomplish!
Thank you for those suggestions. I always like to take tips and advice from other writers like myself. We all have to help each other.
I have procrastination as well and mine I believe stems from a fear of failing… although my writing coach seems to think I fear success. AT any rate I am having difficulty staying focused myself. Good to know talented authors are in the same shoes.
No Terri, You are not alone in procrastinating.
As a former supervisor at Borders, I feel your pain. It’s a sad loss. I’m a procrastinator who copywrites from home, and let me tell you- if you find a cure, you’d better e-mail right a way. Glad to find your blog.
i gave up tv at least 5 yrs ago….never missed it once!! and I get zoo much more done!!