if you’re a parent needing something to do with your child, especially younger children, give them a pencil and some paper too! When a child is learning to write letters, this is an excellent opportunity to get some practice in, and without turning on the damn television! If they already know how to write, this is a perfect time to teach them how to journal…EVERYONE has thoughts and feelings, and sometimes they’re better served in writing.

thanks kisha for sharing this…there’s a breakthrough taking place!!

In the center of a page, jot down your main idea — problem to be solved, theme to be amplified, story title, etc. — the surround it with related ideas. You’ll be surprised by how many ideas bubble forth. That sends your writing mind into action. I wouldn’t begin ANY writing project without doing a mindmap first. Saves time. Unleashes creativity. Harvests ideas you’d never think of.

Then, once you have your mindmap, write without hesitation. Leave your “editor” in the drawer. Just write your first draft with the assurance that nobody will see it but you. Don’t try to edit. Just get the words down.

Then — DO NOTHING. At least for a day, or two days. Or even three.

Come back to it later.

You’ll be amazed to discover all the work your subconscious has done in the meantime.When you’re ready to resume. Start with something easy. Tell yourself you’ll work only for 5 minutes.

Now, you’re rolling. Write, write, write. THEN you can call in your editor. But not before you’ve gotten it all down on paper.

That’s what works for me. And I am the biggest procrastinator on the planet!