How to concentrate when writing?
I looked through the questions and didn't see this one so hopefully it's not a duplicate. I often have ideas of stories I want to write and I work on outlines or write down elements and I know what I need to do is actually sit down and write. It's the only way I'll actually improve. The problem is that I can't seem to concentrate enough to write. I don't have a lot of time either but I could make the time but even when I do I end up wasting it because I'm to busy worrying about other things. I've tried relaxation techniques and prescribed medication but both of these seem to take away my creativity. Is there any advice or techniques that can help me?
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+1 Daniel, I'm on board with that. Set an appointment and write.
If you are worrying about other things: Write about them. Write what is in your head. If you worry about them every day, write them every day. Write down all the ramifications of what you are worrying about. Of all the hundred things you are worrying about. Save them. Put them in files with good headings, like "Ten Good Reasons I Don't Want To Die", or "Why I Should Give Up Writing".
Whatever it is, commit to writing, or at least writerly tasks (like researching what exactly is in cucumber sandwiches, besides cucumbers). You will get bored with writing what you are worrying about, sooner or later (and if you aren't bored with it, at least you are having fun). Then you will be able to write a story.
If you ever cannot because you are worried: Go back to writing about that until you get it out of your system again.
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My mantra that works is "Nail my butt to the chair and write."
Truly, it does not matter if it is garbage. You need to garbage in front of you, in order to improve it.
I am hitting chapter 17 of my first draft garbage, now, in revisions, and although a lot is garbage, there are a few passages I forgot I wrote that are .... damn good.
So, nail your butt to your chair (just do it) and write.
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