I love this post topic . . . really. I mean, I am the epitome of organized, on the ball, totally with it . . .
Yeah, I know. It's getting deep in here. And I so wish I had a basket full of tips, tricks and tools to share. Because if I did, I'd probably be writing everyday and cranking out 7 books a year. Aaaaand I'm not. But there are a few things I've learned to do over these many years I've been writing.
1. Write everything down!!! I know, you say well duh Gwen, you're a writer so of course you write stuff down. And my reply would be, "Nay, nay, my friend." I didn't always. I was sure I would remember that awesome idea, great name, or book title. I didn't. So now, when an idea strikes I am on it and putting it down in a huge file I keep.
2. Google (and other search engines) are my friend. I use them all the time. When I don't know something I always research it. I never want that one person who knows whatever to call me on a fact I could have looked up, but didn't both with.
3. On that same track, if I know someone who knows stuff I will so pick his or her brain. It's way better to have someone give first-hand information since that makes whatever I'm writing more real.
4. Perhaps this doesn't count as a tip, trick or tool, but I try not to beat up on myself if I don't write. I have clinical depression. Have had it, will have it. It's something I have learned to live with. Living with it means there will be times I function on a minimal level. I force myself up and always go to my outside job, but often that doesn't leave me energy to write. If not, I don't get down on myself since the depression is already doing that.
I think that's about it. I know, not much, but right now that's what I have. I will say I've gone to the doctor for help with the nagging depression and she's given me a med to add to what I'm taking. Even after only 6 days, I'm actually feeling better.
Anyway, go on over to check out what the other bloggers have to say. I'm sure it's way more than what I have.
Bronwyn
Jessica
Jessica D
Deelylah
I feel you on the depression <3
ReplyDeleteNot beating yourself up is huge. Also, I'm so glad you're feeling better. :) (It's Bron, BTW - blogger still hates me.)
ReplyDeleteI have no idea what happened to my last comment. Hoping this works, now. The not beating yourself up...best tip ever - depression or no depression. And it applies to so much more than writing. And I'm glad you're feeling better now - depression sucks the big one. HUGS
ReplyDelete#4. OMG! I need to really work on this one. I think it's one of the best tips ever! (So, yeah. I'm with Bron & Jess on this).
ReplyDeleteDepression can be a bitch. It's a chronic illness, and while I might have a more 'outward' one with the rheumatoid arthritis, depression is even harder to counter because of the stigma. You've got this, Gwen! *shakes pom pons*
Writing some days feels like a little hill and if you stick with it you'll have this beautiful written piece by the time you get to the top. Other day's it's feels like a goddamn mountain that is going to break into a tumbling avalanche at any moment. Yet, everyone around you is just trucking up it like there is nothing to fear and it isn't that hard. It doesn't seem fair. It's okay to feel that way. It's okay to feel a little stuck at the bottom. If you need a little rope to help pull you back up, whether that be friends, medications, or a little bit of both, we're all here to help when you are ready. <3
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