Notes on staying creatively focused. Part 1

Whether you're a novelist or do retail, office or factory work, we all need to stay focused. I have spent the (almost) 11 months focused on a new novel and wanted to share some thoughts about this topic.

First, it isn't easy. But you probably knew that.

What I have found is that it becomes a choice - and for me, if I don't write, I don't accomplish anything. Luckily writing is my obsession and so I usually need to. I also find it very hard to do - and I chose prose writing over poetry and songs because of the difficulty factor. I must be a masochist.

When it comes to doing things you want to do (rather than things you must do, like work, running a household, whatever), you need to give yourself the OK to do it. make time for yourself. You'll be a more complete person. The others in your life will thank you for it.

Now I spend about an actual 90 minute a day writing. I know to avoid the mid-day to work creatively; I'm wiped out mentally and won't do well. In the future when I only full-time write, I'll head off to the kitchen or the store or yard at this juncture. Maybe that's when I'll have a siesta.

An hour is put away at the beginning of my day, before anyone wakes. I'm coming out of REM then, so with a shower and coffee I'm ready. (While I'm editing, I've noticed this optimum a.m. creative boost doesn't really jive). Later in the day I may put in another hour or I may watch TV.

OK, you ask - what if I don't have an hour to do something creatively?

I have had plenty of days where all I've had is 15 minutes. 15. And those pressed-for-time days often have been powerful sessions. I can put together 100 or 400 words. Depends.

So MAKING TIME A HABIT is key. (Sorry, not shouting.)

Stay tuned for Part 2...