The End - Is It Really Finished?

"The End."

Every writer faces it. Whether a novel, article, blog post, or other project, there's that time when we're finished and we hit publish or submit to an editor.

When approaching this finish line, I often think of a cartoon I saw on Facebook years ago. Here's the general idea to illustrate: 

An editor stood to the left side of the office. 

Writer #1 stood to the middle right, and had just handed the editor a submission. 

Writer #2, at far right, clutched writer #1 around the waist in an effort to keep writer #1 from grabbing the submission back from the editor. 

Writer #1 said, "But wait, I want to look at it one more time!"

The cartoon made me laugh. Been there. Done that. I know the feeling. I'm sure you know it too - that urge to tweak your content. One. More. Time.

It can be a challenge, right? Especially for the perfectionist or hyper insecure writer. While we strive for excellence, we know there's a balance too. We could edit forever, but that's just not practical. Or healthy. 

So what's the solution? While I still wrestle with a final draft sometimes, I follow these guidelines. They're simple but necessary reminders when I'm tempted to over-edit or linger too long on a project. 
 

• Let it rest - Time is an asset. Even a short break helps us return with fresh eyes before hitting the send button.

• Get outside input - Whether from writing friends or a paid editor, another perspective offers insight for optimum polish.

• Deadlines - There's nothing that motivates like a good old fashioned deadline. I often impose my own to stay on track. 

• Practice - As skills improve, so does our confidence. Moving on gets easier. 

• Acknowledge that it's finished - Insecurities and perfectionism may urge us to adjust the words forever. But forever is a long time. Give it your best and move forward.

• We are not alone - All writers face these or similar challenges.

What do you think? Did I miss anything?

Can it Be? 8 Years!

March 2017 marks my 8th Blogoversary here at Write Now. The time has gone quickly, and it's been a great experience. What would I do without you all? I've learned a lot and made wonderful friends. You all make it worthwhile, and I cannot begin to express my gratitude. You've blessed me in so many ways. You're the best!

I've decided the best way to celebrate this year is to take a break. Frankly, I'm a bit tired. Not of writing, but of keeping up with all the perceived demands that can accompany it. It's been a busy bunch of years, with projects, new freelance work, and fun family happenings.

There are a few changes on the horizon for my husband and me, too. All good ones, but a bit of time to refresh would be welcome and helpful. I also plan to do all those other things us bloggers do when we take a break, like spelunking, scuba diving, bungee jumping, and...okay, not those particular activities. But I will hang out with my grandsons and organize the office. Not at the same time, of course. :)  I'll return on April 10.

I invite you to celebrate my milestone of 8 years by indulging in something fun, like a little chocolate or your favorite dessert. While you're at it, why not curl up with a good book too? I'll be thinking of you all!

Do you fight temptation to endlessly tweak or second guess your work? How do you work through these challenges? What do you have planned for the rest of this month? 

Thanks for being faithful friends! :)

Much love,

Karen 



Photo credit: Free Images Suzanne Smith