“If you want to make an easy job seem mighty hard, just keep putting off doing it.” ~ Olin Miller
Have you noticed that when it comes to writing that starting is the hardest part?
Instead of getting stuck into writing your opening lines you frequently find other things to do. And not just other things – but virtually anything!
I sympathise with you. As for some reason, we all seem to be hard-wired to procrastinate. However, I’ve learnt that winners in life are those people who look procrastination straight in the eye and say – no more!
Wouldn’t it be great to be like these people? To know that you’re no longer a slave to feeble habits? To know that your goals are finally achievable?
Let’s take a walk down the seldom travelled path known as ‘Productivity Lane’.
Writing Is a Game Won by the Mentally Strong
I know, there are countless things you’d rather do than sit down and start writing. Sometimes the TV takes priority, other times the Internet.
It doesn’t have to be this way.
I believe most procrastination arises from the subconscious mind. Deep down, you lack confidence in your writing, and your inner thoughts go to work to make that a reality.
Fortunately, you can defeat this outcome by developing an iron willpower that kick-starts your writing.
Put simply: commit yourself 110% to writing and completing your article/blog/novel.
It’s important to remember, there is real magic in getting the first words down on paper (or up on the screen!). Just like warming-up before vigorous exercise, your first words may come slowly. But then momentum takes over. In my case, I’m constantly amazed at how difficult the first few lines are, compared to how fluidly I can write just a few minutes later.
So, switch off the TV, put your phone on silent – and let the creative flow lead the way.
Your Future Lies in Your Hands
Successful writers are usually productive writers. Often they have built a habit of writing hundreds of words a day – everyday.
Think of what you may be missing.
If you spend 30 minutes everyday finding excuses not to begin writing, then in just one week, you’ve lost 3½ hours of work. Expanding this further, in one month you’ve lost 105 hours. And in one year – you’ve lost an incredible 182 hours!
Can you imagine the work you could’ve done during this time? Dozens of articles, or even a complete book.
You must build a habit of starting your work on time. Your writing output will significantly increase along with your overall productivity. And perhaps most importantly, you will gain tremendous self-confidence in your writing.
My headline is worth repeating:
Stop Procrastinating… Start Writing!
