Tuesday 10 February 2009

A great way to focus the mind

When I decided that I would set myself writing targets each month with a reward if I was successful, I never imagined that I would be so successful with it. Today is only the 10th and I have already completed my writing tasks for the month. The promise of a reward is really focusing the mind on getting the job done. Before the month was over I wanted to submit three pieces of work and edit four chapters of BTL. I have just finished that when I emailed off my third submission. However I think that I will be harder on myself next month and give myself more to do. It doesn't mean that I won't be doing any writing for the rest of the month though. I'll be working on my bonus for the rest of the month.
BTW my reward this month was a full hour curled up on the end of the sofa with my feet up. a pot of tea and my book.
Some of you may have noticed that my January reward also included reading time and that is because that is something that I really precious to me. By the time I've been at work all day and then I've come home and taken care of my men I usually have to grab the odd minute here and there to read a book or magazine. having a whole block of time to indulge myself is a real treat.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

I think some business and project managers could learn a thing or two from this blog.

Karen said...

That's a really good idea. When I get my copy of Writers' Forum magazine, I won't allow myself to read it until I've written 1000 words. Crazy, but it works :o)

Colette McCormick said...

Thanks Captain. I'd like to think that I could teach someone something. I'm hoping to teach my boss something that works on Friday but I don't think they're going to see things my way somehow.
Karen, I'm willing to bet that you enjoy the magazine more for the waiting. i can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to my hour on the sofa.

A page of rain said...

Good idea - I've found setting myself monthly submission targets has really focused me this year so far (well, two months in!) but the thought of a reward at the end may work even better!

Colette McCormick said...

You should give yourself a reward APOR. I find that i enjoy them because I have earned them. Good luck.