Articles written by Michele L. Tune

Has a lack of motivation ever seen you sitting at your desk or curled up in your favorite chair with your laptop—and no inspiration to work on your writing? Not even one word?

This is how I feel today. And I thought I’d blog about it here because surely other writers and bloggers have experienced this same thing.

Some days I’m on fire, writing and writing. The ideas are endless. My passion for words keeps my fingers tapping away at the keyboard. Then there are days like today. Days where I just want to crawl back under the covers and stay there until the inspiration comes back.

Folks, the muse plays tricks on our minds!

Whether it’s a headache, feeling blah – physically or mentally/emotionally – or dealing with life, there are times when I feel like I can’t bring myself to purge one word from my soul.

Of course, if you’re building a career as a writer, crawling back under the covers until the muse comes back to sprinkle her inspiring dust about, is out of the question. When writing is your job you can’t always afford time to give into job stress.

Here are 5 motivation techniques that keep me writing—especially when I don’t feel like it:

1. Connecting with my writing friends. Communicating with other writers and bloggers, who know exactly what I’m going through, is crucial to the health of my writing craft. They do this job too so they know the stress I’m feeling. By the time they’re finished tossing out quotes, words of wisdom, advice, encouragement, and even a joke here and there, I’m feeling refreshed, confident, and ready to take on the words. This motivation technique’s added benefit is motivating the friend too!
2. Reading quotes, blog posts, or a few pages from my favorite authors. I find great inspiration from motivational people like Maya Angelou. After drawing strength from her words, anything is possible!
3. Yoga. I’m a huge fan of yoga (particularly Ashtanga style) and have found that my writing is much more prolific, inspired, and meaningful when I practice regularly. You don’t have to take an hour to feel the benefits and motivation of this technique. As little as five to twenty minutes of yoga can reduce stress, clear your mind, stretch and warm your muscles, and inspire your creativity!
4. Gardening. Sometimes it takes nothing more than a few minutes strolling through the garden, inhaling fresh air and seeing the fruits of my labor, to feel my motivation levels rise.
5. Eating or drinking something nutritious. My brain needs food as much as my body. So if I’m hungry or have forgotten to eat, I’ll notice it affects my writing. Whether it’s a salad chock-full of veggies and a little protein, a handful of nuts, a piece of fruit, or a raw juice or smoothie, fueling up my body results in filling pages!

I hope these motivation techniques have sparked your interest and given you a few ideas you can try for those days you can’t find your motivation – or muse – but need to get the job done.

What do you do when you have to write through lack of inspiration, motivation, and/or chaotic, disruptive days? Do you ever just throw up your hands and crawl back under the covers or hide away somewhere in your house? Or do you press through? What tips and tricks do you have? Do share!

Photo Credit: wagg66

“Imagination and fiction make up more than three-quarters of our real life.” ~ Simone Weil

Ever been at a family reunion, get-together, party or other event and overheard juicy gossip about love affairs or other eyebrow-raising talk?

The (Real) Scene

You’re nibbling on that yummy chocolate cake someone made—the one that is so moist it melts as soon as it hits your tongue; the one that is so chocolaty and divine, you think you’ve died and gone to paradise when, all of a sudden, it happens–you overhear juicy news.

“Susie, I have to tell you something.”

“What?”

“I’m pregnant.”

“Congratulations to you and Darren!”

“Um, not exactly…”

“Whatever do you mean, Erin?”

“Well, see, I met this man–Carlos.”

“Where?!”

“At the park.”

“Oh, Erin! How…”

“I know what you’re thinking, Susie. And I felt awful at first. Just horrendous!”

“But Erin.”

“Susie, he’s so handsome! His skin looks and feels like soft, melted caramel. His eyes are an endless sea of dark chocolate. And his hair… He has a mane of hair that is long, shiny, black, and wavy. It glistens in the sunlight (and moonlight!) with hues of blue–breathtaking. Carlos is everything I’ve ever dreamed of: daring, spontaneous, mysterious, loving, romantic—and oh, so much more!”

“Oh, Erin!”

Jolt of Reality

In walks the husband, Darren.

Uh-oh!

Gulp.

Oh, that was you—not Susie!

Now both Susie and Erin have realized you overheard the whole shebang. And Darren is left wondering why he could cut the tension in the room with that (chocolate) cake knife.

Stealing Inspiration

Wouldn’t this make for a pretty cool scene in a love story? Or do you think it’s cheesy and awful?

Have you ever been in that situation? Did you take notes—whether mental or with paper and pen? Did you try to ignore the conversation and then later wished you had written down every measly detail of juiciness?

Would you tell Erin’s husband she’s cheating on him? Would your reaction be different in real life than the make-believe story you’re writing–or would it be the same. Why?

And what about “those people” from down the street? Or the co-workers with questionable behavior?

There are so many things in real life that we can take and bleed into works of fiction. True, not every family member, friend, or “different” person you come in contact with will have a steamy — or even interesting — story. But even so, you can spice it up and make it as interesting as you’d like.

In my opinion, a lot of fiction is based on real life anyway. Sure, there are writers who have off-the-wall, unique (and simply amazing!) imaginations but there’s also quite a bit of make-believe that’s based on true stories. They’re just embellished. That’s where creative writing comes in, right?

Right.

Have you  swiped a storyline from your own family or friends? If so, did they find out? What was their reaction? Do you think it’s ethical? Of course, you’d have to change names, locations, etc., so readers (or the people you’re swiping inspiration from!) would never know exactly who you’ve based your story or book on. Come on, spill the beans. You know you want to!

Photo Credit: 10-08-07 © Hélène Vallée
Quote Source: Quote Garden, Imagination

Where do you find your writing inspiration?

“The trouble with simple living is that, though it can be joyful, rich, and creative, it isn’t simple.” ~ Doris Janzen Longacre

Writing from an Amish farm? Sounds serene, right?. That’s what you think!

“Really,” you ask?

“Yes, really. And I’ll tell you why.”

The Truth About Farm Life

Many of you may envision me sitting on the porch with my favorite (green juice or smoothy!) and happily tapping away at the keyboard. And that does happen, some of the time. But there’s always behind-the-scenes stuff too.

You know, there’s a thing called chores: tending the animals, planting, watering, weeding, making homemade laundry detergent, hanging clothes on the line (aka solar dryer!), carrying water (this is improving as we now have upgraded the system and have water hoses but there’s still places on the farm the hoses won’t reach and that equals carrying buckets of water) and a ton of other odds and ends things

There are, however, many advantages I am thankful for:

• fertile land to grow colorful flowers and harvest organic foods
• the whippoorwill’s song – sound-chi – every evening
• the entertaining antics of our working farm animals — plus rabbits, squirrels, and birds
• horse-drawn buggies passing to and fro, driven by the local Amish
• the careful, hand-crafted structure and sturdiness of an Amish-built home
• an opportunity to learn new things (like the Amish water system!) that many people may never know
• and so much more…

Finding Ideas and Writing Inspiration through living

And what do these things have to do with writing? Well, first of all, I’ve sold stories (including ghostwritten ones) on some of the above topics. Second, without the experiences I’ve had here on the farm, I’d probably have never sold–or even written–those stories. Sure, I could have researched those things but they’d never have the character and spin I was able to put on them had I not lived these amazing experiences.

I meet new Amish folk and I continuously learn new things about them and the life they lead. Every person I meet is uniquely individual; many defy the “stereotype”; A lot of them are more modern these days (like eating at McDonald’s, buying processed food, etc.) but there are also quite a few of the old-school Amish around. They grow a huge garden and adhere to the old Amish path; their deep roots in tradition and simple living.

All of the adventures on this Amish farm give me writing inspiration. While I’m gardening, my mind-wheel begins turning; new articles or blog posts are born. The fresh air, sunshine, and rich connection with Mother Earth that comes from working so closely with the land rejuvenates me. It provides me with that breath of fresh air, that new-found inspiration, I need to crank out quality writing.

Maybe someday I’ll write a book about it all–possibly even fiction! For now, making time to write articles in-between all the chores and busy Amish style livin’ is just fine with me.

Do you find writing inspiration in the simple act of living? How do you squeeze in your writing amid the chores of your chosen lifestyle? And what about the Amish? Are you as fascinated with them as I am? Do you know any Amish people? Let’s hear it!

Photo Credit: Michele L. Tune
Quote Credit: Quote Garden

When Writer’s Round-About became The Craft of Writing Fiction I felt experienced a fear of change because I’m a non-fiction writer and rarely spend time writing fiction. As I was chatting with my writing colleague, Kimberlee Ferrell, about the changes, I realized my relationship with fiction isn’t as distant as I thought.

Precious Memories

In fact, while reading Kim’s latest post (Reading and Writing: Develop Your Child’s Love of Language) I realized that fiction hits close to home–real close. Not only was my childhood passion for reading based on fictional books and stories, it’s the genre I first started writing!

One of Kim’s tips from that post is:

“Of course, before kids can learn to write well, they need the fundamentals of the alphabet, and reading. I try to read every day with them. Right before bed is the traditional reading time, but don’t be surprised if they come running to you with their favorite story in the middle of the afternoon. Anytime is a good time to share a story with your kids.”

And she goes on to suggest the library as a fabulous place to nurture your children’s reading and writing skills:

“Be sure to take them to the library as often as possible, to expose them to the wide variety of books available. Many libraries have summer reading programs that encourage children to read (or be read to), with many rewards along the way. You could also join (or create) a parent-child book club to encourage the sharing of books and stories.”

Wow. Kim’s words jostled my memory of the countless trips my parents and I made to the library when I was growing up. And they read to me, bought me (both new and used) books to keep in my personal library, and always, always encouraged my passion for reading, writing, and spelling. Those were the days!

Fear of Change

But see, I’ve been hesitant about the new turn this site has taken. As someone who simply detests change – even though I know in my heart and soul it’s usually always for the better in any situation – my heart kind of sank when I found out that Writer’s Round-About had become a new and improved site: The Craft of Writing Fiction.

Here’s a snippet of what the site owner, Rebecca Laffar-Smith, has shared regarding the changes:

We’re still Writer’s Round-About deep within our souls but we’re so much more than that too. And we want to develop a powerful presence, an inspirational community, and a go-to resource for writers.

The new domain name, craftingfiction.com also has a strong sense of purpose and commitment. It is a strong foundation for growth and expansion. It’s forward thinking and innovative. It’s driven to succeed and we are too.

I’m sure these changes are for the better. And, just like children learn and grow and change, so do we as adults. It’s how we improve and move further down the path of success.

I think my hesitation comes from feeling such a closeness to Writer’s Round-About’s history. I’ve read this blog from the beginning—when it was born on Blogger! And I’ve been around for the switch to self-hosted WordPress. I eventually shared a few guest posts with readers here and now (with close to 40 posts published) I guess you’d call me a regular contributor.

Rebecca and the other bloggers here have become more than writing colleagues or friends—they’re family. And this blog feels like a place I’ve always been welcome to come to, kick off my shoes, grab my favorite drink, and get comfy.

And that hasn’t changed, I know.

My (Comforting) Epiphany

The epiphany I’ve had about this whole “fiction theme” –and what Kim helped me see during our talk today—is that my roots with fiction date back to my earliest years.

Although I love writing non-fiction and telling real-life stories now, my passion for reading and writing was actually born as I read countless pages of fictional stories.

When I was a little girl, my all-time favorite book was Danny and the Dinosaur. Next in line was Charlotte’s Web and Judy Blume was one of my favorite authors. As a child, I felt such a sense of peace with a book in my little hands, reading a make-believe story that took my mind to far away places. And even today, when life overwhelms me, there’s nothing like a good novel to help me cast my worries to the wind and transport my mind to another world.

And now, finally, I’m at peace with the new direction this site has taken.

I owe a special thank you to Kim and Rebecca, for helping me search my heart and remember how much fiction has played a significant role in my life. Thanks, ladies!

What about you? Do you gravitate toward non-fiction? Or does your imagination carry you away to a place of innocent make-believe? Do you love the new look, feel, and theme of this site? ‘Fess up!

Photo credit: mexikids

One thing we need to consider as writer’s is which hours to set aside for work. Can you write full-time or part-time? Outline some type of writing schedule (even if you don’t strictly adhere to it) so you’ll have a set time when your priority is putting words on the page. Trust me on this, if you don’t set aside writing time you’ll never find any.

Even if you don’t have “other” work outside the home, you should decide when you will write. It may take a little experimentation for you to figure out when you’re most productive. There are many things to take into consideration.

For instance, do you have small children? Does your spouse or housemates work at home, too? What hours do they work? Are their times when they have company over (ball games, parties, card games, etc.)? Do they practice a loud instrument? Are there certain times of the day that family and/or friends always call? Are you more productive early in the morning, or late at night? Do you need complete silence to think and create – or does music or other loud background noise push you through to the completion of your tasks?

The Early Bird Special

I’m not a morning person. I don’t wake up chipper and clear minded. I tend to write my best late in the day or at night. Some people are morning people, though, and you might be too. You may find it easiest to get into your writing groove early in the morning–even as early as 3 or 4 a.m. That thought actually horrifies me. Although, I have found myself on a roll before and ended up writing through the night and early morning hours!

I asked around and these ladies chimed in as early birds:

• “I’m a lark (morning person). I do my best work between 7am and 1pm, then get another creative kick around 3-5. I am useless in the evening so I read or chill out. For anything requiring deep thought or creativity, morning is it for me!” — Jeanne Grunert
• “[I] prefer early in the morning but will work all day if it is a difficult project or not focused.” — Reesy Floyd-Thompson
• “I start early in the morning, sometimes at 5:30am, so I can be finished with all the “I need quiet to concentrate” work before the kids get off their bus at 3:15 p.m.” — Jenny Greenleaf
• “Personally, my set hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 12:30 to 5:30, because that’s when I have childcare. Of course, I’m also known to stay up late at night or to sneak in a quick article or press release during Sesame Street, nap time, or even when the little one is distracted in the high chair. My office hours, however, make up the majority of my work time these days.” — Lorna Doone Brewer
• “Morning hours are best for my creative stuff.” — Janna Qualman

Night Owls

When I first started actively pursuing my writing career, I crossed (cyber) paths with Misti Sandefur. She had been freelance writing for around 10 years and besides spending her writing time working for clients and various publications, she had also authored a couple of books.

I caught up with Misti on Facebook recently. When I put the question out to social media sites, asking which hours writers adhered to, she responded, “All night. I have a household size of 7 (including myself), so it’s better for me to work when everyone in the house is sleeping. I write better when it’s quiet, so I’m a night owl. Besides, I’ve never been a morning person.” — Misti Sandefur

I’m sure there are a lot more night owls–they just weren’t on Facebook when I asked fellow writers to share their favorite writing time!

Time Spurts

As I mentioned above, my muse visits later in the day and at night. But I have also grown accustomed to writing time in whatever chunks I can squeeze them.

Stacey Graham shared that she squeezes her writing time in whenever possible too: “I set my clock by Vyo’s nap schedule and when I can fit it in on the weekends – which sometimes aren’t possible. Luckily Vyolette still naps 3-4 hours so I can get quite a lot in.”

And there are probably a lot more of you, like Stacey, who write in spurts whenever you get the chance.

I’m curious. Are there are more early bird writers than there are night owls?

When does your muse strike? Are you an break of dawn, office hours, after dark, or spurts writer? What hours suit you best? Do you get to write at the times you write best? Or do you have to work through whatever time you’re given? Do share!

Photo Credit: Michelle Meiklejohn

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“I soon found out you can’t change the world.  The best you can do is to learn to live with it.” — Henry Miller

Life is pretty chaotic for freelancers, isn’t it? I mean, besides the fact that there’s the whole family-work balance act going on, there’s also the work-cyber surfing thing.

First, let’s chat about real life.

Everything from family obligations to friends to extra jobs to emergencies to broken appliances and everything in-between calls us away from what we do: freelance work.

Since freelancers work from home, most people assume we’re always available for their beckon call. Granted, a lot of times these things are important and we really should tend to them, many times people just want a babysitter or gofer and think you’re it.

This isn’t tag. Remember that game?

Anyway, real life is chaotic. Cars need maintenance. Appointments need to be kept for family members — or ourselves! It never seems to end. And it won’t.

That’s why we freelancers are good at what we do: we adapt. Right? Right!

Now, let’s talk about cyber space.

Maybe there are tons of freelancers who don’t have a problem with getting lost in cyber space. Perhaps you turn your computer on, focus on research, write articles until quitting time and repeat the next day. I know quite a few who have a little trouble being that disciplined, though.

Why? There’s social media, an endless sea of awesome blogs and websites to read, games to play, and then there’s that thing called e-mail most of us find ourselves checking a gazillion times a day so we can keep our inbox whittled down to an e-mail count that won’t overwhelm us (like it does when you don’t check it a gazillion times a day!).

Just because you stimulate (aka relax!) your brain with social media, Internet reading breaks, or even play games doesn’t mean you’re a deadbeat.

And the balancing war

It’s all about balance, isn’t it? Moderation is key. A little social media, e-mail here and there, a game to reward yourself, getting up-to-date on your favorite blog once that assignment is half-way complete — all these things are stepping stones (read: resting spots so you can keep your sanity intact).

Being too hard on ourselves isn’t the answer. If you never take a break or allow ourselves the pleasure of reading a blog (or whatever it is that you find appealing) then you might grow weary.

Being a weary freelancer is no fun. You don’t have to shirk all your responsibilities and become a cyber beach bum but you certainly don’t have to deprive yourself of cyber fun either.

How do you win the war? What’s your secret to balancing real life, cyber life, and freelance work? Are you a stickler for pressing through even though you’re feeling burnt out and need a break? Or do you visit the social media water coolers or play games and then go back to your work once you’ve rested your mind from writing? Do you check your e-mail continuously? What works for you?

Photo Credit: svilen001

Quote Credit: Quote Garden

“Getting discouraged is easy. There are negative people all around us, and it’s hard to pick out which ones are being constructive and honest versus those who are being jerks. What I find interesting is just how easy it is to let their opinion scuttle my mood for a while. That’s sure a lot of power I’m giving them.” – Chris Brogan

“You’re a deadbeat.”

The words stunned me. I felt my chest cave in, as if I’d been punched. My stomach turned. I cringed.

I don’t have the poker face talent, so I’m sure the look on my face was evidence of how deeply that comment stung—how badly I was hurt.

Fighting back the tears, I smiled and walked away.

Wow.

A deadbeat? Because I’m a freelancer? Really?

I’m not sure why this particular incident cut me so deeply. Of course, over the past few years, I’ve encountered various people (both in real life and in cyber world) who simply don’t understand how much hard work freelancing truly is.

For the most part, I ignore the hurtful remarks and carry on.

But this time was different. And I know part of the reason is because of who those words came from.

As I shared this episode with a few friends, the kind words, compliments, and encouragement began to cascade over me – freelancing friends are the best!

And one friend mentioned that I had given those words too much power over me; that if I didn’t believe in my heart that it was true to some extent – at least part of me, anyway – than it wouldn’t have hurt so badly.

I think she must be right.

Have I allowed my self-confidence to diminish? Has my once-chin-up attitude been beaten down? Am I so discouraged from life and everyone’s judgments, that I’ve started believing what they say about me?

Surely not!

5 Tips for Dealing with Rude Remarks & Negative Opinions

1. Don’t take it to heart. Even if you’re super tender-hearted like I am, you need to train yourself to deal with these situations – they will most likely happen.
2. Ignore them. Just because someone is rude, opinionated, and gives no thought to how you feel, and don’t know your situation or how hard you work, doesn’t mean you have to respond at all. Sometimes the best response is simply none.
3. Draw from your reservoir of strength. It’s there, deep inside. Tap in to it and feel the reassurance sweep over you!
4. Show, don’t tell. There are some people, who no matter how long you talk to them, will never understand what a freelancer does. Simple as that. So, quit talking and just let your life and work speak for itself. When you’re actually living and buying things (whether it’s food, clothes, cars, or are earning enough freelancing to pay a hefty mortgage and support the entire household) people will begin to see that you are indeed making money from that little computer you stare at day-after-day!
5. Move on. Life is too short to allow negativity to weigh us down and keep us from being happy, at peace, and from our work!

I’ll admit. This particular incident upset me much more than I’d have liked it to. But I know deep in my heart that these people simply do not understand how many hats a freelancer wears. I remind myself of that—sometimes daily.

As I remind myself and struggle to let go, a new day begins. I wake up, proud to be a freelancer.

Have you been mocked because you don’t have a “real job” and just “play on the computer all day”? And if so, how did you react? What is your advice on handling these situations? Does it really get to you? How did you turn that negative situation in to a positive?

“You will be healed by the morning dew of truth.” — Dr. Maya Angelou

Poetry is far more than rhythmic words—it’s a source of healing.

Refuge

Poetry has been a refuge for me; from anger and sadness, from sorrow and pain, poetry has purged my from pores the darkness within. It has been a loyal friend through the lowest of lows. It carried me through the highest highs in the safety of its wings. The monumental moments of my life were shared with my poetry.

Reflections

As I reflect on my relationship with poetry, I discover that I rarely write poetry when life is just coasting along. Instead, when my heart is burdened by tragedy or in bliss reaching new milestones my pen flows in flurries, in agile verse, in melodic turns and phrases. It is likes peaks and valleys that call me back to my poetic pen once again.

Perhaps that is because I don’t need to express my feelings via poetry unless they’re particularly intense. Perhaps the cup of my emotions run over and poetry becomes the overflow. It is in poems I can find release.

Reality

Last year, when my 28-year-old cousin was killed in a tragic car accident, I wrote a poem in her honor. It didn’t bring her back. It didn’t really even make me feel better, but I was able to unload in a familiar way. I could envelop myself in the cozy corner of my poetry and as I huddled there my emotions turned and day followed night. Is I escaped into words they brought me full circle. In the hermitage of language I learned to cope, to deal, to grieve. Poetry allowed me to find healing and move on.

Remembrance

I will never forget my cousin. In writing in honor of her I expressed my feelings in a rhythmic wave. The waters splashed, soothing my soul.

And it still hurts. I write through the tears and then I come back to myself and realize that I am okay.

Realizations

Poetry is a lot of things to a lot of people. To me, it’s a soft place to fall. It’s a safe, warm home I can always come back to. And although I’ve never pursued poetry with passion for my writing career I find a passion for poetry deep in my soul. It is a dear friend that embraces me in the changing moments of my life.

My poetry may never win any awards. It may never be traditionally published. It might not be exceptional. But it is mine; uniquely, personally mine. It records the making-moments of my life. It reflects the me I am today and the me I am becoming. And that is all I need of it. That is all it needs to be.

That is what poetry is for me. What is poetry for you?

Photo Credit: Rose by Eqilshay
Photo Credit: her diary by Lusi
Photo Credit: at the campus 2 by Lusi

“Goals are dreams with deadlines.” ~ Diana Scharf Hunt

Being a freelancer often means burning the midnight oil – at both ends – and sadly, by the time assignments are completed, invoices are sent in, files are up-to-date, the laundry and dishes have been tamed, we’re simply too exhausted to turn our attention to our own projects.

You know what I’m talking about, right? The novel that’s burning a hole in your soul. The eBook you want to share with the world. Stacks of poetry that’s crying to be assembled.

Don’t let the dreams and goals you put on the back burner because life – and work – comes first become so removed that the flame goes out.

There’s nothing worse than realizing one day that something you intended on completing years ago, is still left unfinished.

Don’t let your dreams collect dust in a drawer or on your hardrive.

Life is short. Our dreams are valid. And there’s always a few minutes to spare if we find them.

Here’s a few tips to help you move your passions from the flickering back burner, to the front:

1. Wake up before the house does. Whether you live with roommates, a husband or wife, have children – or even pets – consider sneaking up while they’re all sleeping so you can steal a few moments (or an hour or so!) for your personal projects.
2. Not an early bird? Okay then, stay up after everyone’s gone to bed. If you have to, sneak back up once they drift off to dream land. Enjoy the peace and quiet. Savor every moment!
3. Leave the house. If you have a laptop, steal away to your local coffee shop or library. And if the weather’s nice, try the park.
4. Evaluate your dreams and set realistic, short-term goals to help you achieve them. It can be done. You can find a few minutes here and there to work on your own projects.
5. Create a vacation for yourself. You took vacations off work before you started freelancing, right? Why not enjoy a little downtime now? Allow yourself a couple days a week or even take off a week. Save up for it. Plan for it. Make it happen!

You absolutely do not have to give up on the very dreams and goals that made you write to begin with. Nothing says you have to write for everyone else for the rest of your life. Stand up, rare your shoulders back, but a confident smile on your face, and step in to your writing destiny. You can do it!

And as my good friend, George Angus, recently shared: It’s Never Too Late!

Credits:

Photo: djcodrin

Resource: Tumblemoose.com

“Home is where you hang your @.” ~ Author Unknown

Freelancing from home opens a whole new world. If you’ve never had time to play on the Internet, you might find it difficult to limit that play time.

Of course, I am guilty of losing myself in cyber land as well. I think it’s something a lot of us struggle with.

You may want to check the price of something you’ve been wanting to buy, email your friends, chat on IM (Instant Messenger), catch up on social media sites, or even play games on Facebook. But none of these things are going to help grow your business.

Yes, social media will help you build your brand, but you can only devote so much time to it. Don’t lose sight of your business goals in the process, okay?

I’ve decided to share a few tips to help you focus your energy – and time! – toward achieving the success you dreamed of when you first decided to reach for the sky.

5 Tips for Avoiding Internet Distractions

1. Disconnect. That’s right. My number one tip is to unplug yourself from the Web and focus on your work. If you’re unplugged, you’ll be less inclined to Google something or chat with a friend.
2. Unsubscribe from everything you don’t – or will never – read. It’s pointless (and very stressful!) to have a gazillion emails you need to continuously delete. Select a few subscriptions (like ours!) you value most and let the rest go.
3. Keep your priorities straight. Surfing the Web is not a priority. If it’s research, that’s one thing, but getting lost in cyber space does not reflect work. Right?
4. Limit blog reading until you’ve finished a certain amount of work. Use your favorite blogs as a reward to ensure you won’t get lost in the blogosphere.
5. Don’t use social media as a procrastination tool. Yes, social media can be business-related, but if you’re just talking about what you had for lunch or what you’ll be doing over the weekend, get back to work!

Sometimes distractions can’t be avoided—especially if they’re life-related, but don’t let the Internet become a crutch for you to check out of reality or avoid your work. Surfing the Web won’t pay the bills.

The Internet is an awesome thing. It’s a valuable resource on so many levels, but it can also very easily become an escape mechanism and cause you to lose sight of your priorities. Don’t let that happen.

And remember, less is more. Enjoy the zen!

What do you find most distracting online and how do you avoid internet distractions?

Photo Credit: Salvatore Vuono