The Focus Factor

Life is rarely simple. It seems to be easier for some but for most of us, it's downright complicated. I don't know about the rest of you, but complications mess with my ability to focus. In the last several years, I've pretty much run on survival instincts alone. This means, whatever is most important at that moment, I do and think about the rest later. After years of this I'm afraid I'm stuck in survival mode. In other words, if something does not seem all that important, it gets forgotten or pushed aside.

This is where the writing comes into play. I often say my entire life is *have to*, stealing a line from the movie Parenthood. And it's true. I did go back to college because I wanted to, but in the large scheme of things, I have to get this degree if I want to give my daughter and myself any real quality of life. I work because I have to; mine is the only income we have. I drive to Knoxville sixteen times a year because the courts tell me I have to. I'm sure you see the pattern here.

But I write because I *want to*. Very unique situation that. Something I haven't done in a long time and I'm afraid forgotten how to do. You see, the writing keeps getting ignored or pushed aside for other things. Other things that seem more important but perhaps aren't. What if I've lost the ability to do something simply for the joy of doing it?

And the bigger question, how do I move the writing up on the list? How do I get my butt into that chair and let the writing come without thinking about that pile of clothes four feet to my left that is crying out to be washed? How do I tune everything else out and ignore the voice in my head saying I should really be scrubbing the bathtub?

I might have one way. I included writing expenses on my tax return and was told I have to make money from writing within the next three years or the IRS will come knocking to discuss the validity of these deductions. That's certainly motivating right there.

So, what do you do to find the focus? How do you block out the rest of the world, ignore all the chores and get words on the page? And don't tell me to sit down and do it. This isn't politics and I'm not looking for the sound bite answer. I'm desperate. I need real ideas. I'm hoping you guys can help me out.

PS: I'm dealing with a sick kiddo and I need to get her to the doctor, but I'll try to check in as much as possible. Another complication to throw me off BUT a day off work and opportunity to get some writing done. *sigh* I hope.