1. The dishes are dirty.
Dirty dishes are urgent, writing can happen any time.
2. My [head, foot, etc.] hurts.
I couldn’t possibly write in this condition.
3. I need inspiration.
I’ll just wait until I have an idea, until then I’ll watch TV.
4. I need feedback.
But I don’t want anyone to read this right now… Maybe if I step away for a bit I can come back with fresh eyes.
5. I should exercise.
Writing is so unhealthy—sitting all day, staring at a computer, snacking uncontrollably… My body is much more important than finding time to write today.
6. I don't have enough time.
And if I start, I'll get sucked in and I won't want to stop and I can't afford that right now.
7. I’m too wound up.
I have this meeting later and I just know I’m going to make a fool of myself. I’ll write afterwards when I can really focus.
8. I’m too depressed.
Anything I write will be horrible and I won’t finish it and it’ll never go anywhere so why waste my time? Sleep sounds better.
9. I’m too happy.
Why would I write when I feel so good? I should go outside and smile at people. A smile is worth a thousand words… or something like that.
10. Why write now when I can write tomorrow?
I’ve had writer’s block for two years... one more day won’t hurt.
“People say, ‘What advice do you have for people who want to be writers?’ I say, they don’t really need advice, they know they want to be writers, and they’re gonna do it. Those people who know that they really want to do this and are cut out for it, they know it.”
—R.L. Stine
“Beware of advice—even this.”
—Carl Sandburg
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