At this point, we have all talked about the importance of the mundane:

To Do Lists
Schedules
Daily goals

Real life just loves it when we make plans.

As much as I believe we all need structure in our daily lives, it is definitely not the only element of writing that should be considered.

I often think that being a writer is similar to being a stay-at-home mom, as far as perception goes: So many times, the stay at home mother has to deal with others believing she’s lucky to be able to “relax” all day. You know, because children love to give their parents that opportunity. Similarly, there can be a perception that writers get to just “sit around” and “make up stories” all day long.

Well, we do make up stories. But that isn’t a walk in the park.

Yes, sometimes, the words flow. Sometimes, we all get stuck and have to force ourselves through the block. The thing is, how many times have you all found yourself awake at 3 a.m. to start writing? I find myself doing this quite often, and it throws everything about my “to do list” lifestyle right out of the bloody window.

3:00 a.m. awakens me because I have a block and I’m frustrated, even in sleep. So, I get up and write. Conversely, 3:00 a.m. finds me awake because a plot line has been cooking while I’ve slept and the words are all there, accessible and ready to go. So, I get up and write.

Being a writer is the best “job” I will ever have, because it is my calling and my passion. I try to structure it formally, to keep some sanity in my day-to-day life, but the reality is that writing happens outside the schedule and within it.

Creativity is much like life: it loves it when we make solid plans.

Happy #Monday (early Tuesday, haha), and blessings to you all!