Yesterday, we decorated the house for Christmas. I washed the big things that had been on the counter for days. I cleaned the microwave and stovetop for the first time in a while. I knitted for 15-20 minutes. I read some books with my kids. I made dinner. We worked on all the kids’ homework from Fall Break. I bought a bunch of gifts for Christmas online.
You know what I didn’t do? I didn’t write. Not one word.
Of course, I wasn’t unproductive. I did stuff. Lots of it. But I didn’t do this thing I say I love and want to do. I didn’t write.
Yes, my kids interrupted me. Yes, the cyber deals don’t last very long. Yes, the last day of Thanksgiving vacation was not likely to be conducive to writing. Yes, I did mental work on a number of projects.
But I didn’t write.
Some days are like that. Some days, the fear or discouragement or overwhelm talks us out of this thing that has gripped our hearts. That goal we’ve set. This purpose we know is inside us. Some days are like that.
So what do we do?
Well, today, I did my writing first. I put some words on (digital) paper for a newly-contracted project. That always helps.
And I admitted my hesitation and fears that kept me from my work. First to myself. And now to you.
Mostly, I have recognized that this goal — writing — is a long-term thing. It’s about overall gains, not beating myself up for small losses. It’s choosing to come back today and try again. Maybe it’s the same for you.
Especially when some days come along.
What happens on your some days? What have you been avoiding that you know you want and need to do? How can you address the problem of some days?
