Best writing tip I ever got, besides having it pointed out that “write” is a verb, not a noun, was on a YouTube video by Dana Gioia, in which he said that he starts each writing session by copying out what he wrote during the last writing session. It engages you in the work, starts the editing process and prepares the mind for the next steps. It works.
BTW, if you feel guilty because you’re not doing the work you’re called to do, then you won’t solve that problem by doing something else.
The point is…..do something. It will probably alleviate at least SOME of the guilt, if not all. Another thing you could try is not use the word “guilt” so much. Try a semantic shift like “conscience.” Guilt is associated with having already done something wrong. You know what’s necessary, and you probably just need to get your bearings before going off on a tear and ending up having done something to really feel guilty about. Take your time.
After listening to most of your podcasts, I always thought you were somewhat negative, BUT then as I was working, I started thinking about the points you were making ………. You’re not negative, you’re just telling us the conflicts we all have with ourselves. Thanks for taking the time to share! John, Celtic Eyes Graphics
Thank you for this perspective, John! Writing holds this weird duality for me — it's the thing I love most in the world, but also the thing I struggle with most. Initially the Write Now podcast was going to be super-positive inspiration for writers, but it sort of naturally evolved into what it is now — an exploration of my own life and struggles as a writer. Thank you for reading (and for listening!)
In this interview (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDZ1-arz9dI), Richard Powers talks about going for a walk instead of starting to write... and ideas just come along. Thought that was an interesting approach.
You hit the nail on the head. In my case, it's guilt and a neurotic husband. He doesn't see writing as a job or important. It's also, people calling and needing you to do something, and you feel guilty if you don't help them out. It's learning to say "No" or "Can it wait until ....."
Best writing tip I ever got, besides having it pointed out that “write” is a verb, not a noun, was on a YouTube video by Dana Gioia, in which he said that he starts each writing session by copying out what he wrote during the last writing session. It engages you in the work, starts the editing process and prepares the mind for the next steps. It works.
BTW, if you feel guilty because you’re not doing the work you’re called to do, then you won’t solve that problem by doing something else.
Chris
https://youtu.be/1yVCGenrxNo
Here’s the video from Gioia — he says it so much better than I did.
Chris, YES TO THIS! I really love that idea — I'll try it next time I'm stuck!
The point is…..do something. It will probably alleviate at least SOME of the guilt, if not all. Another thing you could try is not use the word “guilt” so much. Try a semantic shift like “conscience.” Guilt is associated with having already done something wrong. You know what’s necessary, and you probably just need to get your bearings before going off on a tear and ending up having done something to really feel guilty about. Take your time.
Thank you — I appreciate that take on the word guilt!
After listening to most of your podcasts, I always thought you were somewhat negative, BUT then as I was working, I started thinking about the points you were making ………. You’re not negative, you’re just telling us the conflicts we all have with ourselves. Thanks for taking the time to share! John, Celtic Eyes Graphics
Thank you for this perspective, John! Writing holds this weird duality for me — it's the thing I love most in the world, but also the thing I struggle with most. Initially the Write Now podcast was going to be super-positive inspiration for writers, but it sort of naturally evolved into what it is now — an exploration of my own life and struggles as a writer. Thank you for reading (and for listening!)
In this interview (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDZ1-arz9dI), Richard Powers talks about going for a walk instead of starting to write... and ideas just come along. Thought that was an interesting approach.
Oh, I do love that. There are so many ways to write that don't involve putting words onto a page. Thank you, David!
You hit the nail on the head. In my case, it's guilt and a neurotic husband. He doesn't see writing as a job or important. It's also, people calling and needing you to do something, and you feel guilty if you don't help them out. It's learning to say "No" or "Can it wait until ....."
Thank you!
Oh gosh, Carol... I feel for you. I hope that one day your husband sees the value in your craft. <3 Keep on persevering, and thank you for reading!