The Renegade Writer Blog

Hi there, readers! I thought now would be a good time to give you an update on my makeover progress. Below is an explanation of what’s working, what’s not, and what I’m going to do about it- including my problem with being a query hoarder (this may sound like query whore, but in fact it’s quite the opposite :-)).

What’s Working:
My office has never looked better! Thanks to Donna Smallin’s excellent advice my work space is more welcoming and I’m spending more time writing and less time looking for misplaced papers. By combining my home and work to-do lists (look for Donna’s advice in the comments section) and streamlining the tasks, I’m getting more done during the day when the kids are occupied and saving the evening hours for tasks requiring greater concentration.

I’ve been selling more articles to smaller publications and have formed a few relationships with editors. It really is nice sending off an article or query to someone knowing you’ll at least get a response.

After reading the interview with Tom Weede, author of The Entrepreneur Diet I considered the ways my health affects my business. I didn’t think my eating habits were all that bad. I don’t drink coffee, tea, or pop. I also tend to stay away from chips, cookies, cake, etc. I do have one weakness, though, and that’s candy. After a few months of feeling really tired mid morning and/or mid afternoon I decided to quit candy entirely for a while. Within a few days I noticed a drastic increase in my energy level. I now allow myself only a few pieces a week. This has really increased my productivity

Areas to Improve:
As I stated above I’ve become a query hoarder. Sure, I’m coming up with the ideas, doing the research and writing those puppies up. But there they sit on my computer. I’m not hitting the send button nearly as much as I should. I think it’s because I’ve been worried that they aren’t quite good enough yet. After realizing that I needed a kick in the butt I signed up for two query writing classes. I also now have a goal buddy (hi Sarah!) and I’ll be participating in a query challenge. I think accountability can be very motivating!

I also need to do a better job with juggling work and family life (don’t we all). For me it really is all about balance. Thankfully, Victoria Moran came to my rescue!  After just a 30-minute phone session I have two full pages of helpful notes to implement. More on her great advice and how I’m applying it TK!

So, that’s my progress report so far. The pace of the makeover has been perfect and is playing a big role in my success. It takes time and persistence to turn these baby-steps into life-altering habits…and that’s what a lasting makeover is all about. [Jennifer Applin]  

     

 

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