How to Procrastinate and Avoid Writing
Writing is often seen as a solitary and disciplined profession, requiring deep focus and dedication. However, it cannot be denied that I, and I assume other authors, are uniquely talented when finding alternative activities to engage in rather than writing. Procrastination can sometimes be an ever-present companion as I find ingenious and often amusing ways to put off my work.
One of the primary disguises for procrastination is the act of “research.” Perhaps this comes from my patient safety radio days, where research, facts, and my desire to achieve perfection were critical. Research often led me down endless rabbit holes of information. What began as a legitimate search for that crucial detail quickly turned into an hours-long odyssey on obscure Wikipedia pages, watching educational videos about heart surgery. Old habits die hard. I actually love to research.
Sometimes, I seek refuge from writing demands by cleaning my workspace, rearranging bookshelves, or meticulously organizing pens and paper. These actions provide a sense of control and accomplishment, momentarily relieving the pressure of the blank page and allowing me to regain a sense of order in my environment.
That’s right – I have an uncanny ability to identify potential distractions lurking in plain sight. Suddenly, mundane tasks take on an urgent appeal – cleaning out the closet, vacuuming the entire house, picking weeds. Anything becomes preferable to facing the daunting task at hand.
Social media platforms, email, and texting sometimes become irresistible. The need to communicate with friends, acquaintances, and even old schoolmates escalates, blurring the lines between genuine human connection and strategic procrastination. Hmmm – I wonder what second-grade Johnny is doing these days? The allure of engagement provides a temporary escape and makes me feel productive.
I don’t do this, but I know some authors who indulge in a series on Netflix. It sounds like a harmless way to unwind after a day of writing, but it often becomes an avalanche for authors. One episode inevitably leads to another until they find themselves entangled in fictional characters’ captivating plots and lives instead of creating their own. The addictive nature of streaming services certainly doesn’t help in overcoming procrastination.
The plethora of productivity tools available today should theoretically help authors stay on track. However, they often become inadvertent accomplices in the art of procrastination. I know I’ve spent hours researching, organizing, and testing different software, applications, or writing gadgets, with little actual writing taking place. Ultimately, the hunt for the perfect tool becomes another form of avoiding the writing process.
As a writer, it’s easy to feel guilty about procrastinating and worry that it may hinder our progress. However, it’s essential to recognize that sometimes, our minds need a break to wander and explore new ideas. During these moments of delay, our subconscious mind often weaves intricate webs of creativity, leading to unexpected and exciting storylines. By allowing ourselves to embrace the art of procrastination, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and experiences that can ultimately enhance our writing.
Well, I’d write more, but I have to arrange the cans in the pantry alphabetically.
PR
