Yes, I'm tackling a bunch of items this month, so I will try to keep each section brief and readable. I like to ramble, but... I have a new venue for that. :)
IWSG - Insecure Writer's Support Group
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time - and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
The awesome co-hosts for the May 1 posting of the IWSG are Victoria Marie Lees, Kim Lajevardi, Nancy Gideon, and Cathrina Constantine! And we are led, as always, by Captain Alex J. Cavanaugh!
Dealing with Distractions (and IWSG cont)
May 1 optional question - How do you deal with distractions when you are writing?
I deal with distractions daily. I use particular playlists of music, alarms on my phone, timers, prayer, and specific routines to deal with my bouncy brain distractions. I recently moved away from having visual images about my books and a bookshelf on the wall opposite to my desk, and hung a huge image of a green forest. (I actually used curtains I found online to do this inexpensively.) I find the color green to be both calming and helpful for focus.
However, one of the biggest ways I deal with distractions is to set aside "deep work" times for my writing, revision, and "business sessions" as an author. During these deep work sessions, I turn off or mute most distractions. But the most important part of these sessions is how I start.
I start with affirmations about being a writer, like so: I am a writer. I am an author entrepreneur.
When I say those things out loud at the beginning of my work sessions, I find it easier to overcome distractions.
Pivoting
If you've followed me for long, you know I've pivoted before. I think it is something to do with my bouncy, easily distracted brain. I decided to pivot away from video for now and stick with audio for my rambling bits about writing and sharing our work. You can check it out here: The Truth About Storytelling on Substack. It's also on Spotify, and I am trying to wrangle it to be in the right place on Youtube, but I haven't gotten there yet. In today's episode, I discuss our optional question and the IWSG.
One pivot I am glad I tried last year is BookFunnel. I have found the service to be helpful for growing my newsletter and for gaining new readership.
New Promos With Bookfunnel
10 comments:
I used to have my desk facing the window but I found myself daydreaming, looking up at the sky and the palm trees. I've since moved my desk so it faces the wall . . . but I can still turn my chair and look out the window if I want. :)
Great idea using those affirmation before you start those deep work sessions.
I like the affirmation idea.
I like the affirmation idea too. And that you block out longer periods of time to devote to your writing.
Those affirmations are a great idea. Glad it helps you focus before getting to work.
'deep work" time is an interesting concept. I like it.
I'm not always very good at turning off/muting distractions. I'm glad you're able to do that. It's really so helpful.
I admire your ability and willingness to pivot. It's always great to learn about what you're trying and how it's going.
Hi Tyrean - wonderful idea about the affirmations ... makes perfect sense. Deep work time can be essential at times - so understand that too ... all the best - cheers Hilary
It's good to pivot when you need to.
Ronel visiting for IWSG day Adventures in Audio: An Introduction to Audio Production
Sounds like you have a very nice "view" from your desk. I also find forests calming. Deep work... sounds intense, but it might be worth a try. Thanks for sharing!
Love the curtain idea. But I have my desk facing the wall. I have windows behind me. I get distracted looking outside--no matter the weather. I can't listen to music when I write. I need quiet. Bravo to you for being able to pivot so easily. Have a great day!
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