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Ellen Kolb's avatar

Most of my life as a writer has been short-form pieces, and any deadlines have been like those for journalism: one after another in quick succession. Piece of cake, more or less. Not so for my current project, a book manuscript with a deadline looming for delivery to the publisher. That deadline's much harder for me, and I can't say I've figured out how to reduce the anxiety. With my short-form work there's simply no time to be anxious.

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Thomas Salerno's avatar

That's interesting. For me, short term deadlines are always more stressful. I never produce my best work under those conditions. For others, the quick timetable is motivating. They enjoy the challenge. I've never been a fast writer.

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Amy Schirmer's avatar

My built in excuse is time. I'm WAY too busy. However, when I have a few hours given to me, I stare at my blank page... all the same thoughts as you shared so well in your post. This post has been encouraging. I'll write to share with a few, and try not to worry about comparisons, rejections, and deadlines.

Yesterday I literally asked God to direct the next step of a story by giving me a dream. Uncharacteristically, I took a nap in the afternoon... and when I woke up I knew what I was going to do! It helps me to not worry about the next step... this knowing that He's watching my process and progress.

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Thomas Salerno's avatar

I'm so glad that something I wrote was helpful. Keep writing!

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