A recent Twitter interaction with another writing coach helped me clarify some of the principles that underpin my approach to academic writing. Please, please, please remember that what is good advice for writers of young adult fantasy is not necessarily good advice for early career researchers! … [Read more...] about Is this Real Writing or procrastination?
Procrastination
Everyone struggles with procrastination. It may be limited to a particular project or task. Or it may pervade a whole area of your life. Procrastination is not laziness . It is resistance. Posts tagged procrastination look at different things procrastination may be telling you and what to do about it. You might also want to check out posts tagged Focus. Optimizing Focus: 3 elements to consider is a good place to start.
Is tidying your desk procrastination?
As you may know, my definition of writing as “anything that moves your writing project forward”. Typically, this expands your sense of legitimate activities to include reading, taking notes, going for a walk so you can think through the ideas you are working on, or sorting out your project … [Read more...] about Is tidying your desk procrastination?
When your writing project needs to be left alone
Sometimes what your project needs to move forward is to be left alone so the ideas can mull, ferment, or percolate in the back of your mind. This stage will feel painful, unproductive, and like you are procrastinating. Strategies for the mulling phase Physical work is a good option. Our brains … [Read more...] about When your writing project needs to be left alone
One thing at a time?
I don't know about you, but when I was growing up my mother was big on finishing one project before starting another. In my life, I've found that this kind of advice isn't very helpful. What tends to happen when I get stuck and try to "not give up", "push through", "drive on", or whatever, is … [Read more...] about One thing at a time?
You are not a procrastinator: Is this a “no” in disguise?
I've had more than one client recently worry about their inability to get down to their writing. This is not a minor problem. It can lead you to question your ability to do the work you are doing and to question your own identity. If you aren't an academic and a writer, who are … [Read more...] about You are not a procrastinator: Is this a “no” in disguise?
