Some people write best in the morning, probably because they are morning people. They awaken and are ready to write. Their brains aren’t sluggish or filled with thoughts or worries from the day. Everything is fresh, like grass covered with dew. That time is precious to them. They try to safeguard it.
productivity
Of Writers and Coffeeshops: The Sequel
When I first published “Of Writers and Coffeeshops” in 2011, I was amazed by the response. Several readers commented and shared whether they could or couldn’t work in coffeeshops. Unfortunately, those comments have been lost. They didn’t survive the move from one site to another. I’m not sure it matters too much; the readers and I were defeated by one Amber Avines. Her first job after graduating college was as a television reporter. She can write anywhere and under any circumstance. A lack of caffeine or a crowded coffeeshop won’t and doesn’t faze her.
Of Writers and Coffee Shops
I’ve always struggled to write while sitting in a coffee shop. I’ve tried, but I rarely write anything of quality while in one. I’m distracted by the conversations I overhear. I find myself watching how people interact with each other or developing a curiosity about the work they’re doing.
Email Etiquette: What is it Good for?
Unlike the answer found in the song lyrics, email etiquette isn’t good for absolutely nothing. It’s good for absolutely everything. On a pragmatic level, it facilitates responses and productivity. On a personable level, it ensures understanding and respect.
Death to Busy Work
I’m not sure I can adequately describe my feelings regarding busy work. Hatred? Disgust? Loathing? Yes, perhaps loathing is the word I seek. I loathe busy work.
First, a definition of busy work. Busy work does not equal mundane task. Mundane tasks, such as balancing the checkbook or analyzing the number of visitors to a site or the number of new e-letter subscribers (Are you a Write Right subscriber?), serve a purpose. They may not be the most fun of tasks, but they do have a goal.
Why You Need to Get Lost
I hate getting lost. I don’t like to get lost in Ikea. I definitely don’t like to get lost when I’m headed to a meeting. I start to panic even though I know I can ask a sales clerk for directions, or I can call the person I’m meeting and tell him or her I’m going to be late.