Step 1. Check email, in case you have won some nationwide competition or had a world-renowned journal accept one of your stories.
Step 2. Check Facebook. There could be a writing opportunity on a page you’ve liked. Or a cute puppy video.
Step 3. Check Twitter. You may hear some interesting news that prompts you to write a brilliant new piece of fiction. Or creative non-fiction. Or a cool sort of limerick.
Step 4. Check Instagram. You may get good ideas for a snack.
Step 5. Get a snack. And a drink while you’re at it.
Step 6. Sit back down. Open your document. Yes, just go to the toilet. Be quick.
Step 7. Write. Stay there. Do not access the internet, ring people or text people. Write.
Step 8. Briefly congratulate self. You’re writing!
Step 9. Keep writing.
Typical day here in the attic! x
Yeah, it’s hard not to check! My latest trick is to give myself a certain time for ‘faffing’ then have a start time for writing. Seems to work when I remember to set the deadline!
Great to hear you’re into your editing phase (although I know it’s probably daunting). The end is near … just picture that glossy cover of your novel at the end of the process! Happy writing xx