The real challenge with my writing: myself

May 20, 2011 — creative writing, Writing

As I write this, a nagging voice keeps telling me that I should be working on brochure copy or web copy for my clients. It’s true: I did book a very heavy workload this month. But something’s different. I’m finally starting to treat my own writing with the same importance as my paid copywriting projects. There’s still room for improvement, but I’m getting closer.

Since last November, I’ve been struggling with this. It hasn’t been about balance—it’s been about making room for my own writing, period. Given the momentum I gained last summer and early Fall, it’s heartbreaking that I let go of my work-in-progress and my blog for nearly six months.

So how did I start making changes? I asked for help, something that’s not easy for me. In the past, I relied on classes when I was stuck, but that’s not what I needed. I was looking to make sustainable changes and get myself back on track, so I signed up for Lisa Romeo’s I Should Be Writing Boot Camp. Even after I paid for the class, I was skeptical. And then, within a week or two of Boot Camp, something amazing happened: I started writing again.

Lisa’s Boot Camp made a huge impact for me and I highly recommend it. She gave me a fresh perspective and it was through working with her that I had a huge “aha.” There’s a difference between adding writing weekly goals to my to-do list and actually making real, daily changes to create more room—time—for my writing. Of course, I realized that only after over-booking myself in May but it’s a lesson I’m already applying to June.  It’s not going to be easy, but I’m committed to making it work.

What about you? Have you ever lost sight of your writing goals? How did you get back on track?