Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Work-In-Progress Wednesday

My revision strategy, or lack thereof

One of my goals for this blog was (is?) to write about my writing process and revision strategies, that is, whenever I figure them out. I do know, though, that I need a better system of organization. Right now, my writing process is VERY scattered and much too jumbled to understand. I mean, I'll write a little on some days, after coming home from work, then other days I'll just surf the 'Net for writing tips or I'll research facts that pertain to my story. And sometimes, when I'm just too tired to write (after feeding the kids, helping with homework, running baths, etc.), I'll just THINK--about scenes, storylines, plots, characters, etc. Of course, to my husband and children, it doesn't seem like I'm making any progress at all. But I know I am.

But I do wonder if there will ever come a time when I can get my writing totally organized, that is, have a set time or day to write while holding down a full-time job.

Anyone care to offer tips? How do YOU do it?

6 comments:

Tess said...

I honestly wish that I had a better system....mine is fairly scattered as well. It's all the darn interruptions that cause the interrupted work flow :) I'd be a brilliant writer if I lived in a cave. Lonely? Sure, but brilliant (giggle).

Mary Witzl said...

Ironically, the busier I get, the more organized I get, as I'm conscious of having to use my limited time more wisely. That said, I could use a better system myself. I have folders to put my older ms in, but I often neglect to do this. Then I'll spend ages revising something and realize later that what I've been working on isn't the current version.

Unknown said...

I've put some pieces on my blog at the mercy of my readers. Want to join the shred-ripping? Feel free to go to http://philosophyofklo.blogspot.com/2009/04/my-lone-short-story-please-rip-it-to.html

Kate Karyus Quinn said...

Hi, welcome to the work in progress Wednesday fun!

I wish I had some advice on how to balance a full-time job and writing and kids, but I only do occasional freelance work and even with that I usually feel swamped. Maybe try to give yourself a schedule with certain days set aside for just writing, others for research, and then one more for writing related tips and stuff.

It really is a lot - good luck!

Crystal said...

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I see I'm not alone! Kate, I just may try that idea of setting aside certain days for writing or research. I know I've got to do SOMETHING.

Happy Writing!

Lynnette Labelle said...

I belong to a wonderful critique group who'll help me find all the pieces that need fixin'.

Lynnette Labelle
http://lynnettelabelle.blogspot.com