I was one of seven authors invited to speak at this year’s Indie Author Day celebration at a local library.
Authors, aspiring writers, and supporters created a dynamic event where everyone expressed their hopes and joy for personal writing and educational goals.
One question asked by an attendee and the responses from us authors enlightened everyone in the room.
“When do you write?”
Here is a paraphrased sampling of answers.
- Anytime ideas come to me. My home can be filled with sounds, so I reserve a hotel room where it’s quiet.
- At 4:30 in the morning because it’s quiet, and I can write before I go to work.
- From 9 to noon, and if I have thoughts while showering, I write it down on the tub tiles with a marker.
- At night when I come home from work.
- I write every day for six months and then give myself six months off.
When you are passionate about whatever you wish to achieve, you find a way to get it done. You make time without complaining about not having time.
Years ago I juggled a schedule that I would not want to repeat today.
- Commuting to another state working full time
- Dropping off and picking up my daughter as part of the commute
- Attending college after work two days a week
- Managing all that comes with taking care of home and family
- Planning to start a business
Looking back, it seems that my schedule was maddening, but at the time I didn’t see it that way. It was all necessary to become the person I am today. Even though I’m fatigued reading what I accomplished, I’m proud recalling every achievement. There are no regrets.
My first words to the Indie Author Day audience when standing at the podium were:
“The presidential election will occur in a few weeks, and that president will stay in office for four years. My question to you is: what will you accomplish in the next four years?”
Do you want to:
Write a book?
Move to a new location?
Give birth?
Feed the homeless?
Start a business?
Rearrange your bedroom?
Secure a new job?
Travel to a remote island?
Deliver a speech?
Donate to charity?
Learn a new language?
Adopt a pet?
There’s a goal on your agenda that’s not done, and that’s part of the reason why you’re still part of the population. How will you fulfill your destiny this month, next year, or simply in the next few days?
