Tuesday, March 3, 2015

IWSG: Be Intentional


I haven't blogged in quite some time. In fact, last month I completely forgot about IWSG day. It came and went and I didn't even think of it. Very unusual for me since I've always looked forward to first Wednesdays. This month I made a mental reminder. So thanks Alex Cavanaugh for not kicking me out of the club! 
I've been trying to get a handle on exactly what I want for my writing. Seems like a ridiculous thing to say at this point in my life, but I guess that's just about it. Maybe a better way to put it is ... I'm trying to get serious about writing; become intentional. I feel like "become intentional" is the new catch phrase. Some years ago we were saying, "Just do it!" and I told myself to just do it constantly.
 
So, now I'm being intentional. I'm gaining clarity about what I really want and, as the life coach says, "choosing how I “show up” and contribute. Every week, I meet a friend at the library--the way I did in Oklahoma. As a result of these meetings, I've discarded one novel (it had extreme problems) and started the revision of another one--with less problems. I wrote a piece for one of the confession magazines only to decide it would make an interesting novella so I'm in the process of trying to outline it longer. I completed a short, short mystery that I sent off to Woman's World. The story just spewed out of me, and that's always a good sign, right? I'll let you know if and when a rejection comes in.
 
I'm also working on two nonfiction books. One is about a woman who was blind for a number of years, and then she was healed. It's a powerful story. I met the woman in Oklahoma and recorded about four hours of interview with her. My second book is, of course, a writing book. Doesn't every writer want to pen a writing book?
 
In additional to my "intentional writing" I'm hoping to get a website soon. Yeah, I'm taking this intentional stuff seriously. I've vowed that when I walk into my CPA's office next year, I will NOT be embarrassed! I will not! (Now, that's intentional.)
 
How about you? What have you written lately? What are you doing to further your writing career ... or your jewelry making business, or any other goal or dream you have? Whatever you're doing, be intentional. Share with us.
 
 



16 comments:

Unknown said...

Yes, it's great when a story spews out of you! I think you've gotten a lot accomplished with all your writing (novels, novellas, short stories - yay!) and improving the mental space you're in. Have a wonderful week! :)

Zan Marie said...

Hi, Jess! I didn't know you were in "the club"! I just joined. I've seen the post all over the web for it seems like years, but I finally got my act together and joined. Today is my first post. ;-)

I love your point about being *intentional* with our writing. It matters and it helps us weed the unproductive motions off our list and focus on the tasks we should. Thanks for a great post!

Charles Gramlich said...

Been a week now since I've written anything of my own. too much school work.

Anonymous said...

I think it's great you're being so "intentional" with your goals. You do have to have your head in the game. Nothing comes from nothing, right? I'm battling two projects at once right now so there's a bit of a tug of war when it comes to my writing time. But writing is writing and it's propelling me forward. Same with you! Good luck on your projects!

Anonymous said...

I think it's great you're being so "intentional" with your goals. You do have to have your head in the game. Nothing comes from nothing, right? I'm battling two projects at once right now so there's a bit of a tug of war when it comes to my writing time. But writing is writing and it's propelling me forward. Same with you! Good luck on your projects!

Mary Aalgaard said...

Your projects sound so exciting. My interest was immediately piqued by the story of the blind woman who was healed. Let us know when that one is ready for us to read! Also, the cover of your book looks so intriguing. I'm going to check it out!
Play off the Page

Charity Bradford said...

Your "intentional" writing sounds like my latest self-conversation. Mine was is this a hobby or a career?

Good luck with all your projects and submisssions!

Mary Aalgaard said...

I read the description and reviews of your book, and I bought it! Can't wait to sink into a good mystery romance. LOVE!
Play off the Page

Chrys Fey said...

"Intentional" writing sounds like a great concept!

Good luck with your project!

Diane Burton said...

Glad you're back. Last month, I groused about how I couldn't get my writing on track. After several "kicks in the pants" my writing took off. Best wishes on your "intentional" writing.

AJ Lauer said...

Ooh. Someone who regains their sight. I've always thought that would be such an incredibly powerful experience! Good luck with all your projects :)
~AJ from Naturally Sweet
An April A-Z co-host

emaginette said...

I do lots of things intentionally and feel so much better for it. Things like being kind, or being thoughtful. :-)

Here's my link if you'd like to drop by :-)

Anna from Shout with Emaginette

Jessica Ferguson said...

Lexa thanks for stopping by.

Zan Marie, I love the 'club.'

Charles, the year will be over before you know it!

Authorcgcoppola- wishing you the best with your writing.

Mary- the story about the blind woman is interesting. She's quite a lady! And wow! Thanks for buying my book! Hope you like it!

Charity, I think we writers constantly talk to ourselves!

Diane, so good to be back!

AJ, thanks!

Emaginette, thanks for popping over.



Michelle Athy said...

Being intentional certainly helps move things forward. I'm editing a novella right now, in addition to writing a second draft on my current novel. I created a writer page on Facebook, am trying to be better about commenting on others' blogs, and still blog pretty regularly. Thanks for the great post!

Anonymous said...

Being intentional sounds like a step in the right direction. Keep it up. And maybe what you submitted won't get a rejection. =P

Unknown said...

Your 'be intentional' mantra is a great one. I have new mantras this year too, one of which is "try anything". It can mean anything from using more than one approach to solve a problem, to being open to new experiences, new ideas, new perspectives.

It sounds like you've been hugely productive this year. I hope you find exactly the direction you want for your writing.

Now I'm going to ask every writer I know if they dream of penning a writing book. I hadn't thought about it much until now. Maybe I'm from the "a magician never reveals his tricks" school? (or more likely it's because I'm new at novel-writing.) Great post!