Why My Writing is Floating Downstream with Me Doggy Paddling Along Behind It

  Spoiler alert: As I type this, I don't know the answer to the dilemma posed in this title. But two weeks ago, I stumbled onto a potential solution.  

It worked! And then it didn't. 

In other words, it was a good starting point, with potential to both solve the problem and run into roadblocks.

Either way, I've been loving the book that inspired it: Still Writing, by Dani Shapiro. When I paged through it in my local bookstore, I thought it would be an interesting read. Almost immediately, it was so much more. Part validation, part inspiration, it reminded me that when I run into roadblocks, there are likely to be other writers standing just a few feet away, trying to figure out how to get around the same obstacle.

I've been dipping into Still Writing for the past two weeks, an essay or two at a time. I've also been listening to student presentations on chapters of Katy Milkman's How to Change, chapters that focus on creating habits, being flexible, and giving oneself grace. Together, these two books have definitely influenced the kinder, gentler approach I'm taking as I work on another of my favorite task: setting monthly goals.

Since today is the beginning of a new month, I worked on my goals, tracking my successes for October and establishing priorities for November. And, as you can imagine, writing goals are always part of the plan. The ones I set today are less confining and more in keeping with the idea that writing is a roller coaster. Some days, I'm ready to do the long, slow climb up the hill; other days, I want to fly down the other side, unencumbered by the hard parts, enjoying the ride. Both have value.

Whether we're talking rides or writing.