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The Thief

7/27/2014

10 Comments

 
Charles Dickens called procrastination the "Thief of Time."  After this week's writing sessions, I also dub thee "Thief of Clarity."  As the most recent deadline approached, I found myself cramming both Friday and Saturday in a desperate attempt to get my story into the hands of those chosen to provide feedback, giving me only a few days to get into the hands of the judges at Crystal Lake Publishing for the contest.

Obviously stress constantly tapped on my shoulder through those two days as a result of my insistent writing delay, but the side effect that hurt the most was my inability to write with a clear head; in turn robbing me of creativity.  Well, not robbing; more like it flowed like molasses rather than syrup; like trying to run underwater as opposed to on land.  You get the idea.  I had to work harder to attain my goal.  By the time I was done with the story, I wanted nothing to do with writing for the rest of the day...nothing.  I suppose if it truly robbed me of anything it would be my joy of writing.  "Thief of Joy"...sounds about right. 

Last night I celebrated the final draft (well, the first final draft) with an evening of relief and zero writing.  More deadlines crashed that party this morning when I thought about two upcoming opportunities; both with deadlines.  Don't get me wrong.  I'm not complaining.  I'm grateful, but the realization did hit me hard that if I'm going to write there will always be deadlines to meet.  The difference between this past deadline and future ones is the lesson I've learned.


Listening to:  Anti-Procrastination Song by S.O.D.
10 Comments
Daniel
7/29/2014 05:48:16 am

I can relate. Stress definitely has the tendency to rob us unnecessarily. Good luck with the competition!

Reply
Chad
7/29/2014 10:44:51 am

Yes, it does. Thanks, Daniel!

Reply
M.L.
7/29/2014 06:39:39 am

I learned this the hard way too, years ago.

Reply
Chad
7/29/2014 10:44:27 am

Yeah, I've definitely learned a valuable lesson. I'm thankful for it!

Reply
Rick
7/29/2014 08:40:39 am

Enjoy giving your mind a break but keep exercising that writing muscle! Cheers!

Reply
Chad
7/29/2014 10:43:29 am

Will do! Thanks, Rick!

Reply
Erin Mackwire
7/29/2014 10:36:19 am

Ha! Love the SOD!

Reply
Chad
7/29/2014 10:42:59 am

:)

Reply
Lynn
8/6/2014 08:51:22 am

I'm excited for you. When do you find out?

Reply
Chad
8/7/2014 12:38:24 am

Thanks, Lynn! Hopefully fairly soon. Rumor has it, early August. That's now! :)

Reply



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