Yesterday I wrote about procrastination in this blog. It’s something I’d been doing to avoid tackling a workshop I needed to write. But after I finished that post, I went back to my documents file and actually found an old workshop I had presented on the same topic. I didn’t have to outline a whole new program, there it was. All it needed was a few updates.
A friend pointed out to me that sometimes there’s a reason for procrastination. If I’d launched right into writing the new workshop, I would have spent hours of time unnecessarily. I would have been Johnny-on-the-spot, but it would have been wasted time and energy. So, while yesterday, I considered procrastination a negative, today, I’m glad I dragged my feet on this project.
Thinking back, I can recall other times when taking immediate action was not appropriate. If I’d gone with my first instinct, it would have been the wrong decision. In some cases, things transpired during the time I was procrastinating that meant I had to change my approach. In these situations, if I’d jumped in with my usual enthusiasm to complete the projects at hand, I would have found myself backtracking to catch up. In fact, I have had that very thing happen. Haven’t you?
It certainly pays to be organized and to stay on top of the things that come across your desk or that you commit to. But there’s also a lot to say for being flexible. Sometimes it is wise to stop and think before taking action. And the fact that I did this with regard to my freelance writing workshop I’ll be presenting at Ventura College in a few weeks, afforded me extra time to spend writing and promoting my books.
Speaking of books, my latest book, Promote Your Book, Over 250 Proven Tips and Techniques for the Enterprising Author, seems to be doing well. My only gauge at this point is the Amazon rating. I’ll get an accounting from the publisher next month. Order your copy at amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, IndieBound.com, at the publisher’s website http://www.skyhorsepublishing.com or at my website http://www.matilijapress.com/PublishYourBook.html.
I heard from my publisher this week—Allworth Press, an imprint of Skyhorse Publishing. They are putting the final touches on my next book, Publish Your Book, Proven Strategies and Resources for the Enterprising Author. We are in the process of getting expert quotes for the cover. It has gone to the typesetter, so I will get a copy to proof any day now. I’ll also be creating the index at some point. Publication is set for February. It’s going to be a busy holiday season here in the Matilija Press/Patricia Fry offices.
You can learn more about the new book at Amazon.com
In the meantime, if you need an editor for your novel or nonfiction book, check out my credentials and experience here:
http://www.patriciafry.com
I offer free manuscript evaluations and free estimates for editing. PLFry620@yahoo.com