I just came back from a two hour meeting with a client. We got a lot done and I’m now trying to get my notes worked into manuscript. The trouble is, and it isn’t really trouble, is that we didn’t talk in a nice, neat order.
Sure, we each had copy of the manuscript and we went through it page by page, but we didn’t totally stick to our agenda. Instead, we had a free-flowing exchange of ideas, including the start of a couple of new chapters and even a new book. So I’ve got notes in the manuscript, along the …read more

Even though sometimes I have trouble getting my own writing done, I am really good about getting the work done for my clients on time. The other day someone asked me how I was able to manage meeting multiple deadlines.
It’s really simple, or at least it seems that way to me. If you were to look at my daily calendar, you’d find my writing time is actually blocked in each day. Not only that, it’s blocked in by project. So, for example, today I have:

Blocked out the time between 7:30 and 9 for writing on my book – yes, more …read more

As many of you know, book ending is one of my favorite tools or tricks for actually getting the writing done. Now I’m experimenting with a new-to-me tool.
For the balance of the week, a writer friend and I have agreed to be accountability partners. After I publish this blog I’ll give her a call and tell her I expect to spend just about an hour on a book of my own I’m writing. Except that’s been a problem. While I’m on target with the writing I’m doing for clients and mostly on target with blogging, I’m way behind on my …read more

Oh good grief! It’s 10:30 and I seem to be exploring new heights of avoiding writing. I thought I’d share a few with you:

Drive around several blocks to see if the tire noise I heard yesterday is still happening – it isn’t.
Change the color cartridge in my printer – okay, this is legit since the email my client sent is in colors and long enough for me to print, read and contemplate.
Dig the carpet sweeper out of the car and sweep the new rug
Try to open two mysterious files from the client – okay, these need to be opened …read more

Do you know how to book end?
It’s a simple technique and one I find tremendously helpful, particularly when I’m stuck and would rather do almost anything than write. It works like this:

You decide on a task… complete a chapter or a blog entry, or…
You decide how much time you’re going to spend on a chapter, etc.
You call a friend, preferably someone who knows about writing and book ending, but it can be anyone who you know is on your side.
You tell them what you plan – “I’m going to spend the next 2 hours on chapter 6.” or “I’m …read more