Three Things That Motivate Me To Write In The Summer

Summertime is usually a difficult time for writing, especially writers who are moms.  Somehow having all those kids home isn't really conducive to the writing process.  As you all know I'm in the middle of drafting the third book in my Hostage Negotiation series and so I have to motivate myself to write this summer.  I've been analyzing what's working for me lately and thought I'd share.

1.  The Notebook

The computer isn't available to me on a regular basis during the summer because 1. kids need my attention during the day and 2. because I'm not willing to get up early and use it like some other highly motivated (read: crazy in my book!) writer moms I know.  And sometimes when I do have the computer time, I get in the zone only to be interrupted to referee an argument, answer questions, or help someone with something.  So, in order to get something done, I've been going old school.  I take my notebook everywhere---to the pool while I watch swim lessons, to the table while the kids are coloring or writing letters, and I've even read some of what I've written for storytime.  (My poor kids!  No, I'm at a really exciting part so the boys love it.)  Then, when I have the computer, I just type in the scenes I've written (and add, revise, and edit at the same time so win/win!)

2.  Walking

There are studies that prove that exercise increases synapses to the creative side of your brain and I believe that to be true because whenever I get on my treadmill, the ideas really flow.  So, this summer I have started walking a couple miles a day to work out plots, characters, and dialogue.  It really does work, and although I have to carve out the time, it's so worth it for both my waistline and my storyline!

3.  Accountability

I have to have you guys on my blog every Wednesday and my critique group twice a month check in on my progress.  If I know I'm going to have to report to someone, I'm much more likely to get down to the nitty gritty and get my goals for the day/week accomplished.  Very motivational.  And then when I achieve my goals, I've given myself little rewards like buying a new book or something like that.

What's keeping you motivated this summer?