Writer Bryan Hutchinson's Positive Writer offers articles "all written with the purpose of encouraging, inspiring and motivating" fellow authors. New York Times bestselling author Jerry B. Jenkins guest blogged recently on conquering procrastination.
If you’re like me, you’ve had trouble getting your rear end in that chair and writing.
Or if you do get there, the last thing you’re doing is writing.
You don’t have to tell me. I’m a professional procrastinator. I know all the excuses.
We shoo-in first ballot hall-of-fame postponement aficionados love to one-up each other, but before I list my bona fides in that arena, let me tell you what procrastination has wrought in my career:
● By the end of this calendar year I will deliver my 188th contracted manuscript to a traditional publisher—on deadline.
● I’ve had 21 titles reach The New York Times bestseller list, 7 of those debuting at #1.
● My books have sold more than 70 million copies.
Before I do the usual and tell you [that] I say all that not to brag (hey, I write a lot of fiction), let me get back to how accomplished I am as a procrastinator:
● When I’m on deadline, I become the world’s most obnoxious neatnick. How am I expected to write with a messy office, let alone a messy desk?
● Have the backs of all the cereal boxes been read? What about the prescription bottles?
● No, I don’t use pencils any more, but in case I might, all 24 must be sharpened!
● I haven’t been consistent with my physical training. I shouldn’t even think about writing until after a vigorous workout.
● Better clean up my email inbox. Every bit of it. Yes, Aunt Mildred, that is an incredible international scandal, and coincidence, and likely a conspiracy.
● A quick peek at Twitter. A can’t-miss moneymaking opportunity? I might never have to write again…
● And Facebook. I can’t believe that puppy. And that kitty! Oh, no he didn’t!
● The ugliest actor ever born? The ugliest two dozen? It won’t take long to run through those.
● Yes, I am also interested in the largest sea monster to ever wash up on New Zealand’s coast…
● The real mail must be here by now. And it must be close to lunch time.
Right now you’re thinking, Hey, writer man, get to the 3 game-changing tips. Calm down, I’m helping you procrastinate.
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