There are as many
reasons as writers for why a project that starts with enthusiasm
dwindles to a pile of paper shoved into the back of a desk drawer, or
some other hiding place. The authors have grouped the excuses we use
to ourselves into six categories: shame, doubt, arrogance, yearning,
fear, and judgement. The authors have been afflicted with these
emotional pitfalls and write knowledgeably about what they are and
how to over come them.
The core suggestion
in this book is having a writing buddy. This is not someone who
critiques your work, but rather someone to whom you tell your goals
for accomplishing the writing tasks you’ve set for yourself. Having
another non-judgmental person with whom you share your
accomplishments helps you to keep on track.
Using a writing
buddy instead of a critique group has several advantages. Critique
groups often have judgmental members who reinforce your negative
thoughts, like you have no talent and will never be a published
writer. Since there is no competition between you and the writing
buddy, at least there shouldn’t be, you can be free to share your
aspirations and keep slogging away at your project.
This program has
helped numerous people complete writing projects. If you’re having
trouble getting back to the novel, play, dissertation, or other
project, it’s worthwhile to think of giving this a try.
I received this book
from Penguin Group for this review.
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