Dunes & Dreams Romance Writers

GOAL isn't just a four letter word

 by Debora Dennis

So, now you have a goal, either one self-imposed or set upon you by your publisher. You've outlined and plotted your way to success and have your game plan in place to achieve those goals. You might have a progress/word-count meter, a daily chart of progress or have a cherished pen ready to make that satisfying checkmark on your to-do-list, it doesn't matter – you have a goal and a plan. All good.   But what happens when that one word feels more like a noose? Cheer up! I'm here to tell you not to think of the word GOAL as a nasty four-letter word!   In all fairness, I'm normally what you'd call a "self-starter." I've got my plot, my beginning, middle and end and off I go. But for some odd reason, as soon as you say "goal" with a time constraint attached – I freeze, fingers poised over the keyboard and I'm left staring at the blinking cursor. Most definitely, not the way of reaching any goal, I assure you.   The solution? Fool the muse! I now present you with the Debora Dennis method of Goal management.   G is for grant your internal editor some time off. Since you can't fix what isn't on the page in the first place, squash the need to write perfection at the first go around and get something written. I would never suggest you send the editor on an extended vacation, because being a linear writer I just can't operate that way. But for an hour or two? Sure, why not? If I can do it, so can you.   O is for order the pizza already! Without feeling guilty. The last time I checked pizza covered at least three of the major food groups of bread, dairy and vegetables – and if you add meatballs or sausage, you've got them all accounted for. You're on a deadline, believe me the kids, and your husband, won't die from a few nights of take-out pizza between the homemade meals. (And since you'll be less stressed and closer to your goals, you'll be happier too!)   A is for accept your writing style, don't fight it. If you're on a deadline, now is not the time to try to change your habits or the way you plot. Why add more stress? This is the time to embrace your inner writer and thrive. If you've always worked from an outline, don't suddenly decide to be a pantster and vice versa. You'll only end up with that goal-noose tightening around your neck. Don't fight who you are and the way you write.   L is for knowing when to leave your desk. There comes a point when we all have to admit it's time to take a break. When you can't see over the coffee cups, if you're imagining words on the computer screen that aren't there or if your family has taken to wearing computer keyboards across their chests to get your attention – chances are it's time to step away from your desk. And the change of scenery just might spark your creativity.   Now it's time for you to go forth and conquer your goals. Write everyday, a little planning and a lot of focus on your ultimate reward and you will get there. And I promise, you'll survive, even if the pizzeria knows your voice!   © 2009 Debora Dennis