You get an inspired idea for a blog post, story, or screenplay. You can almost see it in your head. It’s good – very good. It’s so important that you decide to save it for some future time, when you can give it your full attention. When you finally have the time, you open up the notes or revisit […]
writing
Move the Starting Line
Are you a careful planner? Do you like to know your exact daily itinerary before you take a trip or do you leave yourself open to exploration and discovery? In writing as in travel, you may not discover exactly where you’re going until you’re well on the way. If you wait to figure out the entire course, you […]
It’s Been Said Before—Write Anyway
“I want to write a book, and feel like I have something to say. But there are so many books in my field, and I don’t know if I’ll contribute anything original.” I’ve been hearing variations on this theme recently from people I admire and respect, who have led successful careers and are valued by others in […]
Staying Silent or Finding Your Voice
What Keeps You From Writing? A few weeks ago, before the election, I chatted with a neighbor about two local rent control initiatives on our ballot. As someone who worked with people evicted by landlords in our over-heated housing market, she had valuable perspective into two competing ballot measures. She wanted to share her ideas […]
Protect Yourself from Author’s Decision Fatigue
Californians face 17 state-wide propositions on the ballot in this election, on issues ranging from marijuana legalization to hospital fees. As diligent citizens, we need to wade through the pros and cons of each, read commentary, and do research, while resisting the temptation to vote no on everything or abstain from voting. Voting in California is all […]
Does Loss Aversion Prevent You From Writing?
“I want to write a book, but I’m worried about how long it will take to recoup the investment of time and money. And what if I never do?” “I started on a book, but another interesting project popped up, so I’ve stuck it in a drawer for the future.” Do either of these statements sound […]