So says Gerald Vaughan.
At the moment I seem to have a hundred projects on the go, but can’t seem to focus on one long enough to make any kind of headway.
It got me thinking: do I just make up new projects to get excited about so I don’t have to commit to the ones of merit that require the extra mile to get them finished?
Example A. Brilliant (according to me) short story idea that has been plaguing my brain for months and is begging to be written down has now been superceded by fleeting concept of YA novel that has proven all consuming for the mouse-on-wheel-in-my-head. Outcome – neither going anywhere fast!
Example B. 279 pages into draft manuscript of a story that I love and am proud of gets bumped to the side (when the going got a little tough if I am to be honest) to focus on another MS idea that has taken over aforementioned mouse. Outcome – neither going anywhere fast!
Ok, so I have started a new job this week, plus keeping up my night job, plus keeping the family fed and watered, so maybe I should ease up on the self flagellation.
I did manage to produce an entry for the AWHA flash and short story comp last week so that’s something. And I am determined (ahem) to brush off draft MS (as mentioned in Example B) and polish it up for Hachette MDP, and …. and …
Ah heck, only Robinson Crusoe had everything done by Friday!
Happy writing, happy reading, and happy days. 🙂
Rebecca Fraser
Rebecca Fraser: Writing & Moonlighting 
Hey Bec,
I can so relate to this. The bright new shiny idea is always so much more attractive than the hard slog of perfecting or even finishing a piece … and there is life that just keeps happening as well.