I'm forcing myself to take time off from writing or editing for a few days -- I started this break on Friday. Do you ever do this? It's sort of killing me to do it, but I've written like a mad woman for six months with few breaks, and I'm at a point where I think that if I don't take a break, I'll get sick of it, or my stories will suffer.
So what do normal people do when they take a break? I have no idea. But here's what I'll be doing today:
1. VOTE and mail in my ballot
2. Wrap birthday presents
3. Read a book
4. Take out the recycling
Is there something else I should be doing? I mean, besides housework. I'm sitting here, out of sorts, and salivating when I think of opening up my latest rough draft and start editing.
But I guess that's the purpose. I need to get to the point where I can't go another minute without getting back to work. Maybe tomorrow.
Now you -- tell me what you do.
HELLO READERS! My blog has moved. Get the latest news about my New
York Times bestselling UNWANTEDS series, WAKE trilogy, and more at http://lisamcmann.wordpress.com/
I just tried this for three days. It was agony. But I think I need to do it on a regular basis--sort of a refueling.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with yours!
When I take time off of writing, I still wind up doing writing-related projects: promotion/marketing ideas for the book, blog stuff, website stuff. It's an obsession. I should seek professional help...
ReplyDeleteI also read. A lot. Upwards of five books at once.
And if I'm feeling particularly self-destructive, I ego surf. Heh.
But I agree: taking time away from writing and editing is necessary. We all need a break once in a while.
Hi Lisa! Just found your blog - how cool. I used to live near the Superstitions too.
ReplyDeleteAs for taking time off, I know exactly what you mean. Today is my 60th day of writing a poem every single day and even though I've really enjoyed it and love the habit, I do feel like I need to take a couple of days to rest and regroup. Writing uses up a lot of mental energy and when I start feeling drained I know it's time for a short break. I hope you're enjoying yours!
Kat -- It is agony. I may have to break down today.
ReplyDeletejackie -- yes, it's so hard to get totally away from it. I have several books to read at the moment though, so that's good.
Sharon -- hey you! So good to see you again! Poetry -- that's tough to do. I bet you've written some lovely things though in 60 days.
I clean. And get really, really grouchy.
ReplyDeleteBut's it's important to clean out the mental cobwebs. :)=
Umm..you could, y'know...edit mine or something.
ReplyDeleteDefine normal.
ReplyDeleteHeather - next time you may feel free to come over and clean my house.
ReplyDeleteSupes - I can't talk Suthren.
Carey - hey you! Uhmmm, normal is...heck, I dunno.