YOU ARE A WRITER, BUT WHAT ABOUT THE OTHER PARTS OF YOUR LIFE?

 

Writing is an all consuming activity, your thoughts constantly with your characters, the settings they inhabit, the plot and sub-plots.  You're virtually in another world most of the time.  One that you have created.  And what happens in that world is entirely up to you.  Such power!  It's rather addictive.  So much so that you can fall into the trap of letting the other parts of your life slip by without your notice. That's a shame because you will miss so much.  And it's why, if the opportunity arises to get away for a few days, you should do so.


It doesn't matter where you go as long as you leave behind your computer, your manuscript and the cell phone.  Just take a good book.  You might find yourself in the South Pacific in cyclone season as I did last week.  Or in the northern hemisphere winter surrounded by snow and ice.  In which case you will need that good book, plus a roaring fire.  Of course, there is the possibility that you're unable to get away.  If this is the case. there's no reason you can't do the same thing.  Close down your computer for a couple of days over the weekend.  Put your manuscript in a drawer where you won't be tempted to look at it, and concentrate, just for the time being, on the other parts of your life.

I guarantee that when you return, you will be refreshed from your sojourn, however short, and your characters, settings, plot, and sub-plots will all be there waiting for you.