So it is my first time here... taking part in Alex J. Cavanaugh's Insecure Writer's Support Group. When I am not taking part in the A to Z Challenge a lot of my blogging is about trying to inject some more writing time into my life and improving my writing.
Today I am concerned about focus. As a student I needed to eat to be able to focus (i.e. stay still long enough to actually do some work) and I have found the same thing creeping through in relation to my writing. It makes it more enjoyable (the temporary distraction) and means that I stay in one place for longer.
Today I have a bag of prawn crackers sitting on my desk. The downside is that these are very greasy and very messy.
My concern is that I don't want this to develop into a habit and I am concerned that because I need the food to focus that I am not really enjoying it. Even know I know I do enjoy it. When I am inspired or on a roll there is no need (frankly I am scribbling furiously so I don't have time to eat). It is just that it helps me pull back and focus when I get distracted or have writer's block.
Am I alone in this?
Welcome to IWSG. :)
ReplyDeleteI tend to nibble at my desk, too. I think it is a way to distract myself from getting down to business. I'm trying to wean myself of the habit.
IWSG #131 until Alex culls the list again.
nibbles can be good. I just need to find clean nibbles :)
DeleteThanks for dropping by.
Welcome to IWSG. I chew gum. Lots and lots of gum. But not all at once. I chew until the piece is hard and tasteless, then spit it out in the garbage... and chew another piece. It helps. My fingers remain greaseless, and my work station is relatively tidy. I don't allow myself to drink anything. My bottle of water is about a foot away so I don't risk spilling it on my keyboard.
ReplyDeleteGum could be a good idea - it is clean. I keep a bottle on the floor at my feet - that way it is out of the way.
DeleteI definitely use food to "reward" myself for keeping butt in chair, and I've gained weight in the last few years. But I don't enjoy writing or revising. Really, really don't. After months, when the ms is finally polished and shining, then I enjoy the feeling of accomplishment.
ReplyDelete"Rewards" can be good. I tend to do that with meals (or tea) :) sometimes chocolate.
DeleteWelcome to IWSG. I don't think many people have mastered the art of focus...
ReplyDeleteYou may want to keep healthier snacks like carrots, or almonds handy.
ReplyDeleteJulie
I think one of the biggest struggles for me as a writer is that as soon as I get "on a roll" writing, I get this general sense of inspiration to DO things! Anything ... run and get a snack, plan a trip, make a new recipe ... all sorts of things start competing.
ReplyDeleteOne thing I've started trying that helps is "fidgeting" - sounds weird I know, but I read a study that wiggling around a bit while doing tasks like writing actually helps the brain stay more focused. And it does seem to work! Dance party time =D