.jpg)
As the sun found its zenith in the sky, hidden as it was by the divine rain laden clouds, I was thrilled at the chance to spend a productive afternoon with some new literary companions, the #WritingWednesdays group. I had been watching with great interest the Queensland Writers Centre as they created more Writing Friday groups. It connects writers in their local communities and provides a space — usually a library or community centre — where Queenslanders can cultivate their habit of writing, following the Pomodoro technique. And finally, here was the chance to have the same experience in South Australia.
I began the year with a challenging objective: to create not one, not two, but three first draft manuscripts. A formidable endeavour, but I knew with the right tools and support, it was an achievable goal. That's where the #WritingWednesdays group comes in, offering a unique platform that fosters motivation and structure, essential ingredients in my writing process. The inaugural workshop was held at the Glenunga Hub and was offering to run for 10 weeks.
Body Doubling - An Effective Tool for Productivity
Among the various techniques employed to boost productivity, 'body doubling' stands out for its effectiveness and simplicity. Much like the concept of a study group, it involves working in tandem with others to foster a shared sense of purpose and momentum. It's this sense of camaraderie and mutual commitment that keeps me engaged and driven.
The #WednesdayWriters and events like #NaNoWriMo have been instrumental in creating these focused pockets of time. The environment of mutual encouragement and responsibility helps me to resist the siren call of procrastination and maintain my focus. Working side by side with fellow writers, even if only virtually, promotes a strong sense of productivity and engagement, keeping my gears in constant motion.
Managing Expectations & Freeing up Energy
Today, I dipped my pen into the inkwell of creativity and continued chiselling away at the third draft manuscript. This particular story has been a constant companion over the past month, as I've noodled away at it in various local cafes and front bars.
One of the most significant evolutions in my writing process has been learning to manage my expectations, particularly for first drafts. First drafts can be messy, chaotic, and far from perfect - but that's okay. They are not the finished product but rather the raw material from which the final piece is crafted.
Accepting this has liberated me from the stifling pursuit of perfection. Instead, I now direct my energy toward the act of creation itself. I focus on the characters, the plot twists, the dialogue - the very essence of the story I aim to tell. This shift in mindset has proved incredibly freeing, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the world I am creating without the burden of excessive self-critique.
What's Your Four-Week Goal?
So, as I conclude my musings about this productive afternoon, I urge you to consider this: What goal can you noodle away at over the next four weeks? Whether it's drafting a chapter of your novel, learning a new language, or simply decluttering your workspace - choose a goal that resonates with you.
Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. The important thing is not the scale of the achievement, but the commitment to start and keep going. By managing your expectations, setting focused goals, and perhaps even finding a group like the #WritingWednesdays, you too can transform your afternoons into productive sessions of personal growth.
Let the power of community and the joy of shared creation fuel your endeavours. Happy writing, noodling, or whatever you choose to do!
Comments