Over the next three months I am going to be undertaking a challenge- to finish the first draft of my novel. This isn't necessarily a New Year's Resolution... just something I've been wanting to do for at least 10 years. And the time has come.
So over the next three months my posts on The Daily Connoisseur will be less frequent (probably down to one a week). I want to thank you in advance for your understanding and I hope that you will stay with me on this journey!
Now on to the life changing stuff...
Over the Christmas break I read one of the best books I have ever encountered on the subject of procrastination entitled, The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. This book, aptly described by Esquire as "A vital gem... a kick in the ass", is the ultimate handbook for anyone that has ever wanted undertake something- be it writing a novel, starting a business or a new exercise routine. The book strictly addresses resistance, perhaps better known to us as procrastination.
Pressfield, author of such bestsellers as: The Legend of Bagger Vance, Gates of Fire, Tides of war and Last of the Amazons put together The War of Art at just 165 pages- each page contains a major eye opener. The book is broken down in to three sections entitled:
Resistance: Defining the Enemy
Combating Resistance: Turning Pro
Beyond Resistance: Higher Realm
Pressfield describes resistance as a repelling force- one whose aim is to "shove us away, distract us, prevent us from doing our work". With each section of the book, he defines it, he personifies it and he gives us the inspiration to combat it, warrior-style.
For all of us that have ever experienced resistance (and I don't know anyone who hasn't) this book is the ultimate guide that can help you live and realize your dream- no fear necessary. For the next three months I am going to be referring to it religiously... I know I'll need it!
The War of Art can be purchased at: www.amazon.com
Interesting to hear about the book you recommend...even more so about your own! Good luck!
ReplyDelete...hey, maybe you should make a widget for the side of your blog that keeps tally of how many chapter drafts you've completed.
(Does "The War of Art" encourage that kind of thing??)
Hi Scentscelf- that is actually a great idea- and thanks for your encouragement. It's really nice to get support from an accomplished writer like yourself!
ReplyDeleteGood luck to you on finishing your novel! And thank you for the book recommendation--I've just requested it from my local library. I've been fighting the artistic demons for a few years now: enough already! Time to get serious!
ReplyDeleteHi Cashmere- Happy New Year! I would love to hear what you think of the book... it is sure to inspire you...
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the writing Jennifer, xv.
ReplyDeleteHi Vicki- Thanks for your support!
ReplyDeleteGreat news Jennifer! I have written a few published books in fiction genre but still find it difficult to focus at times (like today) I think I need some warrior action as well! Another writing book to inspire you is Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird. I look forward to hearing about your book as it progresses. My advice is to not get too overwhelmed with the entire project. Take it piece by piece like a jigsaw you are assembling. Don't worry about losing your audience with the Blog - we will still visit. The book is the important project! Best Wishes and stay with it! xx
ReplyDeleteHi Primrose- Thank you so much for your advice... I love hearing from people who have 'been there' so to speak. When your books come to the American market please let me know... I would love to read them!
ReplyDeleteIt must have inspired you to get down and do what you dreamed about, so I am wishing you the very best luck in your endeavour!!
ReplyDeleteProcastrination is a brutal enemy, I know.
Will savour the posts you do post on Daily Connoiseur, though :-)
All the best for your writing - thanks for the book recommendation, sounds like one we could all do with reading..:)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Helg, for your kind words... It's good to know that procrastination is a universal problem. I was battling with it this morning... alarm went off at 6am and I instantly changed it to 7am. Then I caught myself and decided to get up :)
ReplyDeleteBonjour Here, There... Thank you very much. Yes, this book is good for anyone- not just those who are writing a book. It's really helped me so far!
ReplyDeleteInteresting, sounds like something procrastinating college students should read.
ReplyDeleteHi Jena- yes it would be GREAT for college students... I wish I'd read it in college- or before :)
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the novel, I so admire you! I write this and that but it never really becomes a proper thousands of words novel!
ReplyDeleteThe book sounds very interesting. I would say I have a tendency to procrastinate!
Hi Rose- Thanks for the support! If you ever decided to write a book I'm sure it would be fantastic!
ReplyDeleteAlright--the book is in my hands!. I understand the resistance part all too well. Now I'm about to move onto Part Two--Combating Resistance--SCARY!
ReplyDeleteCashmere- I'm so glad you got the book! Isn't it powerful? BTW- are you working on a particular project or are you just combating resistance in general? :)
ReplyDeleteSo many books...so little time!
ReplyDeleteBut Fatal Lies sounds very tempting.
Merci!
Oooops that was for the link that sent me here...but at least I got here!
ReplyDeletePlease forgive :)
Paris Breakfasts- No problem- I hope you enjoy the book! xo
ReplyDelete