Recent Articles
The Only Competition We Have Is Ourselves
By default, I’m a pretty competitive person. Put me in front of a board game with my husband and sister and brother-in-law, and I will try to tear it up in the winner’s circle (mostly, though, I just want to beat my husband). It’s not about proving my worth or declaring I’m best; it’s just […]
When Writing Feels Hard, It’s a Good Thing
The last few weeks writing has felt really hard. I’ve been maintaining large word counts, but it hasn’t been easy. It’s felt like work. I find myself fidgeting and my mind wandering, and the focus just isn’t as sharp as I’d like it to be. So I set up a standing desk...
Writing Faster with Brainstorms
As writer parents, we may not have much time to write. I do most of my writing in 18 hours a week, and that’s probably stretching it for most parents—especially if you work another job. But I used to do it for only 30 minutes a day. One thing that that helped me immensely with […]
On the Need to Produce Perfect Art
Internal editors like to hit where it hurts. But we don’t have to stand for it. We don’t have to let them.
Taking Time Off From Work Makes Us Better Workers
A few weeks ago I took a Sabbath rest from my writing. I do this every seven weeks to give my brain and fingers and stories a rest, so I can come back fresh and ready, and I can protect against burnout. Normally I use those “working” hours to learn something new or...
No Season Will Last Forever
This is a really difficult season in my life. I have six kids 8 and younger (exact ages; 8, 6, 5, 3 (times two) and 7 months). That means a large portion of my time just goes toward the daily needs of my children—pouring milk, helping pack lunches, reminding them to...
What rejection really means in the life of a writer
I have a full manuscript out with a couple of agents. I’ve been waiting two months to hear from them, whether or not they want the manuscript or will pass so I can try submitting to someone else. I’m getting impatient. Every day I check some of the agents I follow on Twitter to see […]
Write a GREAT Book Even When Your Time is Limited
