I actually had a different topic in mind for this week but things have conspired to adjust my thinking. Happily the events in question are good ones .
For the past several months I have been toiling (yes, that word accurately reflects my state of mind) at my job. I’m usually one of those people who tries to bring an upbeat attitude to everything I do (don’t you just hate those people?), but lately that has been nigh on impossible. I fight to get into a better frame of mind only to have it squashed by the first problem to come along.
To say my boiling point was substantially lowered would be a MAJOR understatement. In fact, it would be safe to say that I had developed a definite spontaneous combustion point.
Writing was difficult, reading was difficult, editing was REALLY difficult… it was not a good situation.
That has ALL changed this week.
I have followed in the footsteps of my SWN bretheren Aaron and Sean. A new job awaits me with the infinite possibilities it brings. I hadn’t realize just how significant that was until I was in a bookstore today.
Suddenly, everything on the shelf looks interesting. Last week I would have looked and said “Meh” to pretty much everything.
I guess I shouldn’t be so surprised to learn this. I know as well as anyone how life (including work, of course) can affect your writing; I mean, how couldn’t it? Still, I hadn’t realized just how far down I was.
For a lifelong reader, getting the excitement of a new book back is a breath of fresh air. My problem there is, where to start? So many new and interesting books to chose from and only so many hours in the day (and money in the wallet).
Then there is the revitalization of my writing. I can’t wait to sit down and finish packaging my last book and get started on my next one. Again, that little problem of not enough time in the day.
I know that I’ll suffer some of the same problems that Mr. Perron still faces; lots to do in the new position that will suck time away from my writing, but still, I feel energized in a way I haven’t had for quite a while. I really hope it is reflected in my writing. And, less time doesn’t necessarily mean less writing; for the past while I’ve had the time but no motivation, so very little got done.
Now, making the time will be a necessity to get all the new ideas out of my head. I guess a change IS as good as a rest.
So, Mr. Kite, I do believe I will have that beer now.