9-14-10 Obstacles

First, I had a wonderful birthday and I did pretty much take the day off. It was beautiful outside and I enjoyed my family and just letting my brain sort of check in, and out. I think it is important to have days where you allow your brain to process. For me that might mean watching a favorite movie or just sitting listening to music. I also like to color. YES... color as in Crayola and coloring book. Perhaps for me this is part of my writing process? I find that when I say I am going to commit to some kind of regular journaling, I don't. I am trying to let this one sort of happen. So, far I've been somewhat consistent and I have noticed that I think about, almost long for, the minutes I take to sit and engage with this blog. I know it is important and it is perhaps a pathway to my goal of publishing this year. I am really taking to heart Belcher's ideas and suggestions. I will take the steps, modifying on a few, and move in a fashion she suggests.

With that.... Overturning Writing Obstacles (pp. 39...)
I am going to list my writing obstacles and rate their interference level (high, medium, low)
1. Medium...I have a hard time finding balance between all that I do: teaching/prep, mentoring/field instruction, homework in other classes (9 credits)

2. HIGH...My house is small and I have no quiet. TV is always on, being a wife/mom I feel pulled to take care of things aside from writing first. So, I wait until evening to write and I'm not motivated then if I've had a busy day.

3. HIGH...I am easily distracted/annoyed by the television and other family going-ons

4. LOW... I am not sure my ideas are good enough to develop: This goes along with #7 in Belcher "I have to read just one more book/article". This also ties in w/Belcher's # 25 "I'm not smart enough to do this kind of work"

5. HIGH...When at my computer I am distracted with the internet (email, FB, blogs, Angel): Belcher # 26

6. LOW...I have a hard time focusing for long lengths of time. I need to move, shuffle things around, vacuum etc.

Solutions:
It would appear that distractions are my biggest obstacle. I need to have a family meeting perhaps and have a quiet time in the house. I could use my office more, but I really don't like being in the basement of the house. However, maybe I should stop being so picky also.

NO INTERNET ZONE... TURN THINGS OFF!
Give myself permission to NOT answer everyone right away (email, phone, text, yells from the other room...)
* Chunk "touch-base" time w/family (time to catch up on day, go over evening agenda etc.)