Apologies for our silence these last few weeks. Lee and I have been quite busy with various commitments, including our role at Meet The Authors. When we last spoke, we discussed how much was going on in our lives. I have many obligations, including those to my family. At my age, I am fortunate that people still want me on committees and boards I suppose, but it also reminds me of the importance of pacing ourselves.
I have often said that when I find myself working endlessly, those things I am involved in often do not get the attention they deserve. For any author, considering this aspect of our writing obligation is as important as anything else.
We all prioritise, and for most, that means putting family first. Or, if you have a faith, then God (or whatever your belief) would then be at the centre of your life. I am sure I am not alone in experiencing much family sickness and bereavement over the decades. During those times, you have no choice but to prioritise those challenges. Transient pleasures like holidays and dining out become secondary considerations. They are no longer important.
When I think about all the different things I do, writing is the one that almost demands to be timetabled. There is a discipline required, which, if not present, means books are left unfinished, ideas are lost, and the flow essential to storytelling is disrupted. Even if you think you are too busy to write for a while, it is okay to leave it and start again when possible. However, it is even better to dedicate an hour or two a week to writing and research to maintain some consistency.
My back surgeon is a wonderful man who I see every six months, and he often boasts about his rare collection of guitars. Before you think I single him out, I do the same with all musicians. I insist that he takes them out of the cupboard and play them again instead of saying, 'Oh, I used to do that when I was younger' (he is probably only about 45! 😊). I belive that any gift, talent (or something you personally worked hard on to achieve) should be a lifetime enjoyment, pastime, and obligation.
For several reasons, the sixth and final book in my series has taken longer than any other. I am right at the end and hopefully publishing soon, but it is only by good luck that I have got this far. It has almost felt as if it was not meant to happen, but for me, it is an obligation. An obligation to those waiting for the book and to myself, as it is very much part of me.
Other blogs on this site talk about mental health, and writing can be very useful in combating stress and poor mental health, but it can also create pressures. Ensure that you are not ‘grabbing time' to write (or for anything else, for that matter). If necessary, timetable elements of your life after you have prioritised work and other commitments.
Remember, if you are not enjoying writing, something is wrong. This has happened to me and can be due to anything from a bad review to doing too much or even ignoring for a while. Take some time to figure out how to get the most out of your authorship so that it does not impact your health or anyone else’s.
There will always be times when you can do little else but look after yourself and others. But when you get through difficult times, try to return to your art for everybody’s sake.
We welcome blogs from members about anything related to writing/publishing etc. Please consider writing one for us 😊
Click here on the home page
Thank you for your commitment. It takes love for what you do to give time.
I think our ideas are still inside us, even when our routines are overthrown by the need to tend to other things. Returning to a regular writing routine after a disruption can feel like a reward in itself and a sign that things are calming down again. Good luck with the new release!