It is interesting how the mind works. I have taken a sabbatical from my novel for over three weeks now. No particular reason why, other than everything else going on in my life has been more interesting. On the positive side, I have tackled some issues that needed serious attention. Household accounts are now more up to date, a tree and several shrubs have been planted, and my house is a lot cleaner (I have a new iRobot Roomba :-). I am also back on Weight Watchers, which really isn't a diet in my book, but a lifestyle change that enforces eating a healthier, lean diet. I have never joined this organization for real, but found their books and figured out the system. It really works, although it too required some serious attention in the beginning. I have since pulled out the recipe books, charts, and points book. As a result, my husband and I have been slowly shedding pounds, about two pounds weeks.
However, I am still two and a half chapters away from finishing, a rewrite that incorporated new plot details and a change to two secondary characters, one that I had actually eliminated in one draft. My dreams reflect this. I have been dreaming a lot lately, something that happens a lot when you are dieting I guess. At any rate, I had a dream last night that made me realize my novel is still very much a part of my sub-conscious.
Apparently, I have been working through the role and importance of the character I had once deleted. In my dream I met an actress (best keep her identity a secret for now), and suddenly---in a blink, I saw her playing the role of Meagan in my book. Well, okay, that means my book makes it to the big screen, but this was a dream, right?
I am still recording my writing and exercise hours. Holding myself accountable continues to have a positive effect, whether it shames me into being more prolific or applauds my success. I am human after all, and like everyone else, I have my ups and downs. All said, I am over the hump and moving forward again!
How do you deal with roadblocks in your writing career? Do you stop and clear the paths of distraction or climb over it?
Copyright 2013 © Sharon Himsl
I love it when things come to me in dreams.
ReplyDeleteMe, too. Wish it happened nightly...
DeleteYou could finish the revision before leaving for Hawaii, and begin looking for agents when you return. Everything will feel fresh and new.
ReplyDeleteWhy can't you divulge the actress? I am so curious.
I know, I know. The challenge is on...before the trip--definitely! (I'll divulge the actress over coffee sometime :).
DeleteI haven't been writing either. Too busy. But this busy is going to calm down soon, and then I can get back to it.
ReplyDeleteIt's nice to take the occasional break, though. I like to think that the story lies fallow, just soaking up nutrients until I have time to get back to it again.
And soon you will back to it, right? Reaping that ground. We just need to keep hold of the goal!
DeletePersonally, I think stepping away from writing projects helps. When you return, your words look a lot fresher.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Teresa. It really is true.
DeleteLike Teresa, I too believe stepping away from projects once in a while (for whatever the reason) helps. Everything is clearer after some time away.
ReplyDeleteSo great that you're over the hump and on your way again.
Thanks and nice to meet you :)
DeleteI complain a lot and get grumpy. And then I get over it and get on with it.
ReplyDeleteWhen we are honest with ourselves, it can be so freeing!
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