I chose Picasso’s painting called The Dream for this post’s image because we all have a dream of what we want to accomplish. During my writing class on Monday, we discussed writing goals for the next couple weeks while we have a break. I suggested to at least use the two hours a week that we’d normally be in class, to sit down and write, revisions count but notes for a novel, short story, essay, or poem wouldn’t.
I was pleased with the lists everyone made. Long ones and short ones of what they want to complete, if not a whole project, some parts of it. Little steps make a task easier and can be checked off from a list providing encouragement to check off more. Whatever works for the individual is a matter of choice. What’s important, is to work on those writing projects, each day if possible. Don’t put them off until tomorrow.
Procrastination ruins a dream. A fear of failure or a lack of self-confidence could cause procrastination. Or procrastination might be only a habit. How do we conquer what we might not realize?
The inspiration for our discussion was an article called “5 Books You Need to Read to Get Your Creative Juices Flowing” by Dean Bokhari (DeanBokhari.com).
One of the books is called The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield. Here are some points from Amazon’s description of the book. ”
“A succinct, engaging, and practical guide for succeeding in any creative sphere. . . What keeps so many of us from doing what we long to do? Why is there a naysayer within? How can we avoid the roadblocks of any creative endeavor—be it starting up a dream business venture, writing a novel, or painting a masterpiece? Bestselling novelist Steven Pressfield identifies the enemy that every one of us must face, outlines a battle plan to conquer this internal foe, then pinpoints just how to achieve the greatest success. The War of Art emphasizes the resolve needed to recognize and overcome the obstacles of ambition and then effectively shows how to reach the highest level of creative discipline. Think of it as tough love . . . for yourself. Whether an artist, writer or business person, this simple, personal, and no-nonsense book will inspire you to seize the potential of your life.”
The War of Art sounds like a good read to me.
Take time to dream. . .and color.