What NOT to do while I am writing
Since I write in spits and spurts (meaning, I can't carve out a consistent time of day to sit down and write more than 15 minutes), I regard me writing time as a bit of a guilty pleasure. I make sure the kid is occupied. The husband engaged in some activity that will keep his attention--and as many distractions as far, far away as humanly possible so that I can write. ESPECIALLY when I find myself inspired.
So, if you see my pecking away at the keyboard. Or scribbling away on a notebook, napkin, or scrap of newspaper. Deep in some sort of writing thought, or clearly drowning in my remember these two things:
- Never, ever interrupt me. Unless of course you are under the age of 8 and can't quite take care of yourself. Adults, don't ask me a question. Invite me to comment on the latest sitcom. Bring me a magazine article and expect me to read it that instant. Or comment that I should grab a bite to eat. Because when writing is coming easy. Let it come. And don't interrupt the thought process.
- Ask me to go to bed, make dinner, turn off the computer... well, I guess it is one in the same. Don't interrupt. I'm writing for goodness sake! I can multitask, but not that well. Not when I am driven. Not when the number/page count is growing. NOT when I can make progress on a book that has been sitting stagnant for a while.
So there you have it. Know a writer in your life. Keep these things in mind. It could save your relationship.
So, if you see my pecking away at the keyboard. Or scribbling away on a notebook, napkin, or scrap of newspaper. Deep in some sort of writing thought, or clearly drowning in my remember these two things:
- Never, ever interrupt me. Unless of course you are under the age of 8 and can't quite take care of yourself. Adults, don't ask me a question. Invite me to comment on the latest sitcom. Bring me a magazine article and expect me to read it that instant. Or comment that I should grab a bite to eat. Because when writing is coming easy. Let it come. And don't interrupt the thought process.
- Ask me to go to bed, make dinner, turn off the computer... well, I guess it is one in the same. Don't interrupt. I'm writing for goodness sake! I can multitask, but not that well. Not when I am driven. Not when the number/page count is growing. NOT when I can make progress on a book that has been sitting stagnant for a while.
So there you have it. Know a writer in your life. Keep these things in mind. It could save your relationship.
Labels: writing life
