This week I'm beginning a new novel series for work, which is exciting but also a little nerve-racking. I've done my research and set up my daily goals schedule, but everything I do over the next month will determine what I do, and contribute to how well I do it, for the next half of the year. Mostly aspiring writers don't realize how much energy and sheer will it takes to be creative, original and inventive every day. I try not to think about the weight of that responsibility so it doesn't get between me and the work, but it's always there, like a big angry cow ready to trample me if I hesitate on the path.
When I begin a project I am very good to myself. I quilt every day on my breaks, which helps keep me from tensing up or brooding. I drink my favorite teas (including an herbal blend that helps me sleep better) and give myself little rewards when I reach my daily goals. I increase my efforts to stay away from things that depress (news) or upset me (politics) or make me angry (toxic people). I read my favorite books for pleasure, and I also write a lot in my desk journal.
I don't mind working alone, and obviously I have a lot of experience with bearing the responsibilities. I've never counted, but I think I've written somewhere around thirty novel series now. I will remind myself frequently of how lucky I am to still be a pro writer when so many of my peers have given up or been forced out of the industry. To be able to do what I love for a living is simply a privilege as well. More than anything that keeps the big angry cow out of my way.
Image credit: matak from Pixabay
Comments
Your header picture looks a little like my backyard, sans footprints. It snowed all day here yesterday.