Some writers write in their bedroom. Some write in bars and cafes. Some writers write in the morning. Some write only at night. Some writers write on computers. Some write with paper and pen. Some writers have to play music. Some need absolute quiet. So, ask yourself, “Where, when, and how do I write?” When you hear yourself answering, write down whatever comes.
My writing process has changed over the years. Now when I write I usually look on line and try to get familiar with the topic. If I am free writing, I also use the same process. I start looking online for subjects that interest me. I prefer to write when the children have all gone to sleep but sometimes that is impossible. I usually have the television on because I do like to hear noise in the background. I should not say process because I don’t really have a process when I start to write. There are times when I will start an outline before writing to organize my ideas. Sometimes I will start writing my rough draft first, come back in a couple of days, and read my rough draft and try to add or change it.
While we have been in this class I continue to repeat the same thing, which is I don’t feel creative anymore. It is very hard for me to sit down and write without taking forever just to start the introduction. Sometimes I wonder if I am suffering from some sort of attention deficit disorder because I lose interest so quickly. I think if I continue my long journey of writing maybe than I gain some creativeness. I do believe that in order to become a successful writer you must be a reader. That maybe the problem, which is, I don’t read like I used too. I want to be able to have an extensive vocabulary and sometimes I can’t even find the right word to use much less look it up and find its synonym.
After this class, I want to change many of my bad habits that I have acquired. One habit is not being able to focus. I am going to change the way I write by trying different methods of writing like turning the television off while writing. I also want to start reading again. I know I will not be able to read ten books a month but at least one book per month. Going to the library has been a goal since school has started. I must change and I will change, and that means I have to set aside sometime for myself. I think maybe getting out of the house and writing might help my creativeness. I know that in order to make a change I have to put forth and effort.
Cora, you seem motivated to upgrade your writing which is the first step. I like and admire that you are trying different ways to improve your vocabulary, writing, and focus. I would think that this class and the practice that it has provided would have also gone a long way to help. As they say, practice makes perfect, and the only way to get better is through practice. I wrote about my struggles with procrastination, and need to follow in your footsteps of lising possible solutions to my problem. Maybe you can share some of your motivation also. Enjoyed your reflection, thanks!!
Chris