Ideally, I’ve developed ideas for whatever I’m writing and work consistently. For years, especially toward the end of a novel, my tenacity surprised even me.
With the many changes wrought by the pandemic and my aging fingers, I find it harder to sit still for an hour or two at a time. Actually, sitting is fine. The fingers protest.
Yes, there is dictation. That’s fine when I’m home alone, but doesn’t work in a library or coffee shop. While I do it at times, it isn’t as rewarding as ideas flowing from my brain to the screen in what, for me, is a more seamless process.
I’ve graduated to writing in spurts. I’ll work for half-an-hour and then walk around with an icepack on my fingers. Occasionally I sit still to listen to the radio or watch a few minutes of TV, but walking is better. I do think as I walk and occasionally jot notes. However, too much writing by hand defeats the purpose of taking a finger break.
This past Saturday I had my second writing date at the library since March 2020. Bliss. Plus, when I need a break, I can wander the shelves.
Bottom line, I need some new productivity techniques that don’t involve snacking. Many people have jobs in which they work in spurts and maintain concentration. I’m open to suggestions.
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