Distracted and Looking for Focus
I find it difficult to write when life is running smoothly.
If something in my life is off kilter I find it doubly difficult to focus on writing anything. Even a blog post is hard.
For me, if there is a problem, that problem runs around and around in my mind. I throw all sorts of solutions at it and if there are no solutions I can think of I just dissect the problem into a billion tiny pieces. I can go through this exercise anywhere and at any time and get absolutely nowhere.
This prevents me, most often, from typing out more than a couple of useful thoughts at a time. It probably sounds obsessive. But I wonder how many people can say that they never ever do this.
It just means that I have to work really hard to write anything and while writers say that you have to write every day, writing any day is still productive. Just not quite as productive.
Sometimes, if life is difficult it can help to have or do something comforting and familiar. Sometimes I can clear my head by reading, or soaking in a nice hot bath, enjoying a treat.
I spent some time reading last night and I was able to escape for a while. It’s way too hot to soak in a hot bubble bath. So, I’m going to grab a chocolate shake…and some Lactaid…and settle in to try to focus.
What helps you to take you mind off of your worries and focus on your writing?
So, I want to know....did a chocolate shake work?! Wait, if it did, maybe I shouldn't know! I couldn't afford the calories that focus requires!
ReplyDeleteLong drives, usually late at night when traffic is low. When we lived in Chickasha, I would sometimes take the turnpike from Chickasha to OKC and back and that would clear my head. Sometimes, I'll walk around the bookstore or an office supply store, and that also seems to help. Also, a longer-than-usual shower helps me.
ReplyDeleteRight now, I'm avoiding getting started on a project because once I start, I have to stick with it this time.
@May It worked a little. But I only ate about ¼. I hope the effectiveness is not determined by the amount consumed.
ReplyDelete@Chris A long drive sounds nice. I might try that.
Thanks for commenting!
Kristine Duffey
Honestly, I find it difficult to focus when I'm worrying or have a lot on my mind as well. Sometimes I'll just sit here surfing the net for hours before I settle in to write. What usually helps me...and this is probably strange, but what usually helps is setting a deadline for myself. A deadline helps me to focus my energy and attention and actually get something done.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for linking up! Hope you enjoyed your shake and found a little focus :)
@Katie: I agree. Setting a deadline can be very helpful so long as I take myself seriously. Thanks!
ReplyDelete