Just do it! Part One

Motivation is so important when it comes to writing. We need to have that drive within us when we sit down with pen in hand or fingers on a keyboard. It is often the most important element in writing because it determines when and how we get started. If we aren’t motivated, then we aren’t getting the creative element inside of us exposed. I believe that writers need to release this animal or they begin to get consumed by it internally. Writers need to express themselves. It’s the way they show their emotions. If they don’t write, then their emotions get pent up and that’s not good for anyone.

So how does one get motivated to write? What happens if your desire isn’t strong enough to get you started? First of all I think a writer has to make a commitment to the work he or she are interested in creating. It’s almost like an establishing a formal contract with yourself. You’re going to invest your time, energy and creativity into a project that is worthy of "you." If you don’t have enough of these elements then this may not be the time for you to take on a project like this.

Taking the time to assess the elements will help to eliminate any possible pitfalls that may arise later and make you scratch the project all together. You need to analyze where you are in your life. How is your time currently divided? Are you working, do you have family commitments, are you well enough physically and emotionally? These are just a few things to take in consideration. If you are working fulltime, have three kids playing soccer twice a week, taking a class on the weekends…well you get the picture, it may not be the time to start writing a book. If the time isn’t available, then motivating yourself to write will be almost impossible.

If you are able to set some time aside to start writing, then you should set up a schedule for yourself. Set aside little increments of time at first and write them on your calendar or in your planner. Stick to it as best you can. Be committed but also prepare yourself for life’s unplanned interruptions. Tell your family and friends that this is time that is for yourself and you will not be planning anything with them during it. By stating this to them you are announcing your commitment and also expressing your expectations from them. This announcement says you are expecting them to support your decision and honor the time you’re going to be investing in your project. NOTE: Some will support you better than others.

Once you’ve established your schedule you’ll be able to move ahead on your project.

Comments

[Stephanie]

JoAnne--Good luck to you and your writing! I can really sympathize with your struggle to stay focused despite other obligations.
It sounds like you feel your story will help others; let that be your motivator! As long as your story is cooped up inside your heart (or your hard drive!), others can't learn from it. The sooner you share it, the better off the reader will be. Of course, that means you've got to get it "right" for it to have impact--another motivator!

[Maryanne]

I'm so glad you are reading our posts and getting inspired from them. I want to tell you that I don't believe there is such a thing as failing when it comes to writing. The story that seems to want to emerge from you is a personal thing at first. Whether you decide to share with the rest of us is the second. Do it for yourself and then failure doesn't exist. Does that make sense? Getting your calendar started is a great start. Little steps, one at a time is all you should be doing.

[JoAnne]

Thanks for the great post. It is exactly what i needed to hear.
I want to write...i don't just want to write; at times i do feel consumed by the story inside of me, the story which is me. Putting my story on paper will heal and release and possible change a life.
Every time I begin to feel motivated, I am too easily able to talk myself out of it. Fear of failure possibly.
Making a contract with myself is exactly what i need to do and I'm launching my calendar as we speak.