Let's face it, sometimes freelance writing can be mundane. You don't feel like writing anymore. You'd rather do anything besides write....
Rebecca Laffar-Smith, at Writer's Round About has asked me to share seven procrastination busters. She created this meme... briliant idea! Actually, one of Rebecca's ways of breaking through procrastinating on an article she was supposed to write was by writing the post that turned into this meme! Great tips, Rebecca.
Now, it's my turn. I bring you...
Procrastination Roadblocks: How to Get Around Them
Tip 1: Make a List
Start writing down all the things you're grateful for: family, friends, health, a home, a vehicle, a job, food in your cabinets, the opportunity - privilege, really - to do what you love most - write. You'll feel thankful, your heart fill with warmth and you'll be reenergized and inspired to finish those articles you've been trying to ignore.
Tip 2: Curl Up In Your Favorite Cozy Space and Read a Short Story
The stories in Chicken Soup for the Writer's Soul are so inspiring! It's like a breath of fresh air to read how other writers are living their dream, how they conquered their fears, and how they overcame obstacles. If you don't already have a copy, get one. After getting a glimpse into the writer's lives in this anthology, you'll find the strength and courage to press through your procrastinating mood and do what you need to do.
Tip 3: Make Yourself a Fresh Juice
Yes, I'm serious. Besides the overall health benefits of juicing raw veggies and fruits, most combinations taste delicious and hit your bloodstream right away feeding your brain. Who doesn't need a boost of brain power? You can pick up a juicing machine
Tip 4: Take a Power Nap
Why not? Kick back in your favorite chair, curl up on the couch, or wherever, and rest. Set your alarm if you have to. Just rest. When you go back to the dreaded work, you'll feel refreshed and raring to go.
Tip 5: Read the Latest Posts on Your Favorite Blog (Or Two)
Perhaps by reading about other writer's successes, new publishing credits, or even interviews with authors, you'll realize you have what it takes to push your way through and finish your work.
Tip 6: Do a Good Deed
Call someone you know who is elderly, ill, or isolated from the world, a friend you haven't talked to in a while, a family member.... Chat with them for a few minutes, just to let them know you care. Make out that thank-you card you've been putting off. Ha! Bust procrastination by completing something else you've been procrastinating on. Run an errand for a neighbor who just had surgery, or take them dinner to make their life easier - just to be nice. You get the idea.
Tip 7: Plan Your Vacation
Get a notebook and dream about where you'd love to go. What amazing place do you want to visit: Paris.. Mexico... Ireland... Australia ? (You'd have to think of another destination, Rebecca - smile).
What will you do while you're there? Search online for restaurants, hotels, entertainment. Are you daydreaming already? Now, what will you need to pack? Make a list (I love lists!). Excited about your trip? You have something to look forward to. Now, work toward it! How's that for motivation to bust procrastination?!
I Gave You the Tips, Now Here Are the Tags
1. Mary, at Mary's Writing Nook, because she's wise and will share marvelous tips!
2. Opal Tribble, at Addicted to Writing, because she's a confidant, successful business woman!
3. Sylvia C., at Sylvia's Insight, because her creativity brings sunshine to the cyber highway!
4. Mary Grandy, at Functional Shmunctional, because she has a way with words that is amazing!
5. Janna, at Something She Wrote, because her positivity and persistence will make you smile!
6. Susan Johnston, at The Urban Muse, because her professionalism is taking her far!
7. Misti Sandefur, at Life of a Writer, because she's been published for over a decade!
If I didn't tag you and you have fantabulous tips to share, write a post and leave us a link in the comments. Oh, and don't forget: tell us seven ways to get around procrastination roadblocks and then tag seven other bloggers.
Happy Writing (and Blogging) the Cyber Highway!
