Writing Wilde - Writing Tip December 1, 2020

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I wrote, “The End” last night on the first draft of a book (Vlad & Veronica) that has been in the works for literally years. I’ve finished 39 other books in that time, and just fiddled with this one until the last six months. I’ve been working on it every day for the last half of this year. Sometimes enjoying a muse that prodded me to write 10k in one session, other times forced to be satisfied with less than 300 words.

Part of me wants to dive in and start editing right away. But experience has taught me that if I start immediately, it won’t take long to become frazzled. Because in the last few weeks my sole focus has been this book, and I’ve done the minimum everywhere else. There are bills to pay, presents to buy, a Christmas Tree with lights and not one ornament—sitting in my living room. Its been there for days…

So today, I’ll do laundry and dance around my house to Christmas tunes while I put up decorations. Tomorrow I’ll sit down and figure out what things I planned to do in November, need to be moved to December—and which things can be crossed out.

Then Thursday I’ll celebrate. Not just because I finished the rough draft of my 40th book and that is a big deal… but also because it’s my 32nd anniversary. My husband set up the tree and put lights on it, then hasn’t said a word as it just sat there… branches bare. I certainly couldn’t do this without his quiet support.

I’ll take several days. To breathe, to tidy up, and to celebrate. But I’ll also be thinking, considering, writing down a note or two so I don’t forget some great idea. When I start my edits, everything will be on track again and I can let the story take over my life once more. The time off will give me a better perspective, a fresh outlook, and I’ll have reveled in a sense of accomplishment that will fuel the creative fire inside.

For me, a few days works fabulous. For you, it might be one day, one week, or a month. Just remember to take a little time, even if its just a few minutes to stare at those words… THE END.

You did it!