As we close in on Christmas and I think about all of the last minute tasks I must finish, it reminds me of writing deadlines. Have you noticed that most writing projects come with deadlines? Sometimes the deadlines are dictated by a client, editor or publisher, but most often they’re self-imposed.
How do you approach deadlines? Do you wait until the last possible second and then scramble to finish the article or chapter? Do you pace yourself—setting reasonable goals all along the way? Maybe you rush into the project with gusto so you’ll have plenty of time to complete it should something disrupt your schedule.
I think I use a combination of these methods. I’ve learned that the approach also depends on the project. While some writing projects need concentrated attention, others can be accomplished in snippets of time between other writing projects. Timing is important, too. I have to admit that there are days when my brain just won’t cooperate. I might want to spend the morning promoting my new book or editing a client’s memoir, but I just can’t concentrate on that particular project. For me, it’s usually a case of burn out rather than writer’s block. But it does no good to forge ahead when the going is slow and painful. What is a writer to do?
I turn my attention to something else. I’ll work on my cat story book, send out a few query letters, organize my office or go putter in the garden. When I return to the project an hour or a few days later, I’m refreshed and able to proceed and produce.
What is a deadline to you—a friend or a foe? Do you depend on writing deadlines and welcome them? Or do they drive you crazy?
I appreciate deadlines. I like having some sort of parameter within which to work. This month we have a huge deadline. Tomorrow is Christmas. Are you on schedule with your tasks? Will you be ready to meet your commitments? Or have you let some traditions go by the wayside again this year because you just couldn’t get a “round tuit?â€
Whether you’re highly organized and on schedule or falling a little behind, don’t forget to order your copy of The Right Way to Write, Publish and Sell Your Book at the prepublication discount. This special offer ends December 31, 2005.