John & Kate Plus 8 -- Too Many?

The media is having a field day with the couple of the hit reality show, John and Kate Plus 8. According to various TV shows and magazines, the couple is having major marital problems, and the entire world is watching their lives unravel before our eyes.

In two words, I would say, "Too many." Of course I don't mean too many kids! People have had multiples for years and their marriages survived some of the toughest times. For John and Kate, too many eyes are watching them, too much exposure for the family, and too many people's opinions are being made about their lifestyle. These things can cause stress on the marriage and they threaten to tear a family apart.

Writer, do you have too much going on in your life? Are these things preventing you from writing effective information? Do you find it hard to complete your writing projects because of so many distractions?

What are some things you can and should eliminate in order to focus your mind, heart, and keyboard on getting back to the basics of writing? Below you'll find some things you can eliminate from your "hectic" schedule:

• Watching reruns of your favorite show
• Searching the Internet for hours on unnecessary information
• Watching soap operas and reality shows
• Taking long naps
• Talking on the phone for long periods of time

While these things may be difficult to break away from, doing it can give you the exact time you need to refocus and get back on track with your writing!

Rush! Rush! Rush!

I must admit--I'm very slow when it comes to getting out of the house to go somewhere. In fact, I normally need to start getting ready about 3 hours before leaving my house.

My family members get upset with me when they see me running around the house trying to get things together; but I need time to think, organize, and effectively do...whatever.

As writers we may find ourselves rushing. With work, children, spouses, and unexpected events, we never seem to have time for anything else let alone write. BUT--how badly do you want to write and see your words published for your readers?

If your answer is, "It's not that important," then stop writing today. However, if you're serious about writing and getting published, then you need to make time in the middle of your rush, rush, rush.

How can you do this?

• Write at least 1-2 paragraphs per day.
• Eliminate non-essential activities from your daily schedule at least 3-5 times per week.
• Establish one writing goal per month and complete it.

Despite all the things that require your time and energy, you can still make time--even if you have to rush, rush, rush! Tell your self, "I will write, write, write!"