Long Hollow

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Realtor, writer, blogger in Austin, TX

Looking Back, Looking Forward

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"A writer is somebody for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people."

~ Thomas Mann

If that's so, then I'm definitely a writer. There are times when writing isn't just difficult for me – it's pure hell.

But other times it's heaven, and that's why I stand here in January of 2012, once again repeating the mantra from past New Year's resolutions: finish my book… finish my book… finish my book…

In terms of writing, my 2011 looked a lot – too much – like 2010, 2009, 2008…

It's time to review what I've learned over my two decades or so of writing. I need to figure out what helps, and do more of that, while clearing the hurdles that are keeping me from the finish line.

Let's see… I've learned I need big chunks of time for writing. My writing can't thrive and grow on the handfuls of stolen minutes I've been feeding it for years.

I've learned multitasking is my enemy. I have to close all those extra windows on my computer that tempt me… Facebook being the main culprit, but email and even research sites can be time-sucking tempters.

Other things I've learned: I compare myself to others too often; I need the challenge, support and feedback of a writer's group; I have a problem with finishing what I start… and starting too many things.

On the 'up' side, I'm much better at saying 'no'. Housework, bills, laundry, cooking… I can easily shove the thought of them into a closet and forget they exist. Wearing earplugs helps me do the same with any nearby conversations or television noise. (I work at a desktop in the open livingroom.)

My biggest challenge for 2012? Finding a balance and setting priorities between all of my different interests/callings/projects… writing my book(s), blogging, photography, and my seed of a personal history/photography business… while not neglecting my family, friends and health.

Pretty much the same challenge I faced last year. And the year before. And the year before.

I hope that by next January, I can adopt a new mantra. At least for a different book.

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11 responses to “Looking Back, Looking Forward”

  1. Jennifer Richardson Avatar
    Jennifer Richardson

    oh friend, I so so SO relate!
    I’m feeling you.
    I can’t WAIT to hear more about your book!
    I’m in a similar boat….more about the financial
    cost of collaborative publishing. But still so
    pregnant with a book I feel ready to pop.
    And cry.
    And laugh.
    And shout.
    (oh how the list goes on.)
    I will be wildly cheering in your corner
    for that baby to get born:):):)
    Remember to breathe,
    Jen

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  2. Gail Avatar
    Gail

    I was going to write the exact same line as Jennifer. Boy, howdy! Somehow I have confidence that you are going to reach your goal this year. Don’t be too hard on yourself!!

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  3. Barbara Shallue Avatar
    Barbara Shallue

    Thank you for your confidence! I'm trying to share it. I won't be too, too hard on myself, but I'm afraid I need to put a little more pressure on myself – I've been too lax!

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  4. Barbara Shallue Avatar
    Barbara Shallue

    Thank you, Jen! And I'll be cheering for your baby, too – can't wait to read whatever you write. I know it will be beautiful and inspiring! (I truly do forget to breathe sometimes – I need the reminder!)

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  5. JUANA Avatar
    JUANA

    Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that you could EVER have difficulty writing at times! And I thought I was the only one… Well, you and Thomas Mann, just made me feel so much better 🙂
    As far as comparisons go, I don’t know who your read my friend, but writing doesn’t get much better than yours. You ARE a great writer. I wish I could write half as good as you!!
    Oh, and this year I will keep remind you to finish your book…. finish your book… finish your book… BECAUSE I AM DYING TO READ IT! As for me and 2012, I will try to find an agent… find an agent… find an agent. lol. Aren’t we a pair!
    Hugs

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  6. Barbara Shallue Avatar
    Barbara Shallue

    I'm proud to be in a pair with you! Best of luck to both of us!! As soon as I sell my book, I'm flying to Spain to see you!

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  7. Walker Thornton Avatar
    Walker Thornton

    Well, it seems that you’re in good company. Multi-tasking, finding chunks of time and writing THE book are on my list for 2012. Maybe we should pull together a few bloggers and set up our own online support forum?

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  8. Barbara Shallue Avatar
    Barbara Shallue

    That's a great idea! Most of the groups I've seen (although I haven't looked as much as I should) require a fee… and I know I'm not alone in being flat broke, either! lol

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  9. Barbara Shallue Avatar
    Barbara Shallue

    That's a great idea! Most of the groups I've seen (although I haven't looked as much as I should) require a fee… and I know I'm not alone in being flat broke, either! lol

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  10. Rae Sinor Avatar
    Rae Sinor

    I have honestly thought about making myself (HA!) stop facebook except on certain days or like JUST certain hours! I waste too much time on it I know! OMG, there are so many other things I could and SHOULD be doing! SIGH!!!

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  11. Barbara Shallue Avatar
    Barbara Shallue

    I really do have to just close out the window and limit myself to a quick visit in the morning and once or twice more during the day. I do love keeping an eye on everyone, but holy moly! the time can fly!

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