Something happens after a book is published. Writers, then, have a dual focus. Trying to promote and continuing to work on their next project. This leaves me, personally, overwhelmed. And I don’t function well in that place.
Some authors speak of a “let down” time after their novel or book is published. That they feel depressed, blue, unable to work.
I wonder if it’s something like postpartum depression. You’ve worked so hard and birthed this marvelous creation, and you’re somewhat exhausted and now have so much to take care of.
Writers do refer to their writing as offspring in some sense or another.
The thing about procrastination is that it becomes a habit.
When I’m overwhelmed and don’t know what to do first, I tend to procrastinate. We’re not just talking about a lot to do. I regularly have a lot to do and have it scheduled, done, and still have writing time.
I think scheduling helps overcome or even usurp any potential procrastination. So it’s summer, no schedule, makes it even harder.
I got a schedule book, instead of just my phone, and keep that on the table I pass most often in the house. There it is, laying open, telling me what needs to be done and by what time. No phone beep that I tend to ignore or swipe to dismiss, but an open book written in pen and ink.
I’m old school. An open book is my catnip.
I’m a tad neurotic. A to-do list is my medicine.
Take that procrastination!
Many years ago, when I was in school. A woman showed up late to class. She could barely walk, used a cane, struggled to a seat and didn’t speak for half the semester. Then, one day, she spoke.
As a writing community, I believe we need to help one another. There doesn’t need to be a competition or an unfriendly or unhealthy antagonism between us. We are people who share a love of the written word, a desire to share our stories.
Noreen Lace 
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