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Procrastinating

Procrastinating

Published on January 29, 2022

Personally, I dislike this word because we have all been guilty of procrastinating at one point or another. Did you know that according to a study done by StudyMode Student Psyche Report, distraction was found to be the most common reason for procrastination (48%)? And 20% of individuals identify themselves as chronic procrastinators as per research by Dr. Joseph Ferrari.

So, what exactly does procrastinate mean? Well, in layman terms, when someone procrastinates, they deliberately postpone something despite the negative consequence of doing so. In other words, we as individuals put off doing something on purpose regardless of the repercussions that will follow suit. This sounds bad right? Well, let’s clear the air first. When we think about someone procrastinating, our thoughts immediately jump to the idea that procrastinators have issues with time management. This is incorrect as these two actions do not correlate with one another.

In fact, most procrastinators are excellent time managers. The reasoning behind procrastinating stems from completing dreaded task or meaningless assignments aka sidetracked. Truth be told I’ve been guilty of procrastinating and not because I couldn’t manage my time but because I did not want to complete a task that was considered boring or repetitive. For example, when it comes to completing my annual taxes, I put it off as long as possible because the task is cumbersome and quite tedious.

Now onto the big question: How can we overcome procrastination? According to a 2020 study in the International Journal of Applied Positive Psychology, people who practiced even brief mindfulness exercises were more likely to stay on task. (Source – National Geographic)

Self-regulation, as a close companion of procrastination (Sirois and Pychyl, 2013), has also been proved to affect people’s wellbeing (De Ridder and Gillebaart, 2017). Self-regulation also appears to be a key factor to ameliorate the negative effect of procrastination.

As a reminder, procrastination is a choice therefore avoidable but if you happen to get stuck in this cycle and feel like there is no way out then try some mindfulness exercises or self-regulation to refine the less desirable outcomes.

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Writer’s Block

Writer’s Block

Published on January 11, 2022

Although the definitions may vary in hindsight, it really all boils down to the same concept – the unproductivity of writing. Many authors and writers have or will face writer’s block for one reason or another which has or will delay their craft from being published. It is important to identify the triggers early on and intercept them so that the circumstance that is causing writer’s block doesn’t drag on. So, let’s explore some of the common triggers that author’s face when writing their literary work.

One of the most common reasons that a writer experiences unproductivity is due to lack of time. The majority of writer’s either do not make money or make enough from their published literary works (unless they become NY Times Best Seller and receive a movie deal from producers) to support their household, therefore their first priority is to their employer. Having a job that is not related to an author’s writing can place a strain on their craft. And not to mention attempting to find the time to write after an 8-hour shift seems nearly impossible. It is crucial for the writer to find balance and reorganize their priorities by being realistic with their time.

Distractions is another nuisance that can also derail a deadline or target date for anyone and not just writers. It’s imperative for the writer to remove themselves from instances and stay focused on the task at hand. In addition to this, the feeling of inadequacy can easily place any writer in the hotseat by making them question their ability to continue writing. As a published author we sometimes feel overwhelmed and begin to wonder whether our writing is good enough or if anyone would even read the material. Word of advice, the author should stay true to themselves and remain passionate about writing. No one can ever take that away from them!

Now, once these triggers have been identified, what can a writer do to avoid them? Do not avoid them because they are inevitable. Instead, intercept and adjust by practicing the following methods:

1.           Find that muse to continue writing. The author should think about what inspired them to write in the first place.

2.           Change tactics or scenery by moving to a different location from their regular writing spot.

3.           Attempt some relaxation techniques to assist with stress or doubts. Yoga and taking deep breaths will usually do the trick.

4.           Read a book that will reset their mind and attitude.

5.           Create an outline of the chapter that is causing the writer’s block which will elevate the author’s perception and get them back on track.

At the end of the day if the writer is proactive and prepares in advance for when the trigger might occur then intercepting it will be much easier to handle which will save time, assist with impeding the distractions and fulfill any perception of inadequacy.

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Beta Reader

Beta Reader

Published on December 6, 2021

Have you ever heard the saying “I just sent my manuscript to my beta readers,” and thought to yourself, what the heck are beta readers? Well, I know I did! I myself did not know what the term meant and whether I had made a mistake in not enlisting a set of beta readers prior to publishing my book Pnĕumä.

So what exactly are beta readers? According to Microsoft Bing, a beta reader is defined as “a person who reads a work of fiction before it is published in order to mark errors and suggest improvements, typically without receiving payment.” Wikipedia defines a beta reader as “a test reader of an unreleased work of literature or other writing, who gives feedback from the point of view of an average reader to the author”. A beta reader is not a professional and can therefore provide advice and comments in the opinions of an average reader. This feedback is used by the writer to fix remaining issues with plot, pacing, and consistency. The beta reader also serves as a sounding board to see if the book has had the intended emotional impact.

Besides professional editors, beta readers are the second most important individuals to the publishing process. They are the first line of defense so to speak. With the right beta readers on board, an author’s manuscript will be closer to being polished for their editor. Now let’s dive into those bewildering questions that every writer is itching to know.

Why does an author need Beta Readers?

I’m sorry to report that no manuscript is perfect, and mistakes are inevitable. This is where the beta readers come into play as they have the ability to point out inconsistencies in world-building, character description and plot lines.

How does an author find Beta Readers?

There are several resources that an author can elevate to find beta readers. Members of writing groups or communities is a great place to start. Other options are acquaintances (not to be confused with friends), a colleague or friends of friends. 

What characteristics or background should Beta Readers have?

The beta readers selected to review an author’s manuscript must first and foremost be a reader, no exceptions! They must also be reliable, someone who can be trusted, is honest with their feedback and reads the genre that the author writes.

How many Beta Readers is too many?

The number of beta readers will really depend on the feedback that the author is seeking.  In my opinion, one beta reader is probably not enough but twenty might be too many as it will be hard to get through that much feedback in time to publish. Another obstacle to think about is that although an author’s beta readers have committed to read their unpublished manuscript, many will not even start or finish by the deadline set.

What does a Beta Reader get in return?           

Beta readers do not make money by reading an author’s unpublished manuscript; however, it can still be rewarding for them. Think about it, they get to read a genre that they love for FREE before anyone else! In addition to this, beta readers get bragging rights that they had input on the published work. For my second book, I will not only provide my Beta Readers with an autographed copy but will also give them credit and mention their names under the acknowledgments page.              

Did I forget to mention that your Beta Readers are also great candidates in leaving a review right when the book debuts thereby increasing visibility with current and future readers.

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Professional Book Editor

Professional Book Editor

Published on November 17, 2021

What is a book editor, and do I really need one if I plan to self-publish? Whether you are self-publishing, independently publishing or going the traditional route, hiring an editor is a must! The writer is responsible for writing while the editor is responsible for editing. These two tasks are distinct and should never be performed by the same individual.

So, what does a professional book editor actually do? Book editors offer numerous services to assist with polishing a writer’s literary work prior to publishing. The goal of an editor is to make suggestions that may improve a writer’s literary work by focusing on what the writer needs. For example, an editor will uncover flaws, enhance the writing, and guide the writer on what does and does not work for a particular genre.

Do I really need a professional book editor? Absolutely! In fact, no literary work should ever be published without some type of editing. If you end up going through traditional publishing then no worries because they will pay for endless rounds of editing. However, if you are self-publishing then you as the author will be responsible for hiring an editor prior to publishing.

What credentials should a book editor have? Before you employ a professional book editor, you should always ask for references, confirm their professional training or education, validate the services they provide and the actual cost for these services. Do not go with the first editor you find and always complete a thorough research before making your final decision.

Types of Book Editing Services:

  1. Developmental Editing – focuses on the overall structure of the book (e.g. storytelling, characters, theme, point of view and readers expectation). The editor is responsible for informing the writer where the structure of the book is strong and where it needs improvement.
  2. Line Editing – focuses on the language used to communicate the story to the reader (e.g. writing style, language, and creative content).
  3. Structural Editing – same as developmental editing but the difference is that the editor actually makes the changes for the writer.
  4. Copy Editing – focuses on spelling, grammar, punctuation, fact checking (e.g. dates, names, etc.), terminology and formatting.
  5. Proof Reading – this should be the last step after all editing has concluded. The editor will do a final run through the manuscript for inconsistencies.

At the end of the day, hiring a professional editor can be expensive, however, if you are serious about your literary works then it will be money well spent.

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Voice Description

Voice Description

Published on November 7, 2021

When two individuals are conversating there certainly is a tone that either comforts, distracts, elevates, or demands something from the other. It’s called “tone.” So, what is “tone” and why does it matter? Tone is the vocal sound with reference to its pitch, quality, and strength. The tone in our voice matters because it sets the mood and outcome of a conversation. For example, when speaking to someone, if your tone is gruff then more than likely you are either sour or upset about something. Or if you use a breathy tone, it probably means that your heart is over accelerated thus causing the loud breathing noises when speaking.

This same rule applies in our writing. Since the situation is playing out through the eyes of the writer, then it is our responsibility to describe the emotion of said dialogue by setting the tone.

Example: “Not at all,” she said in a brittle voice, avoiding his eye.

In the dialogue above, using a brittle voice indicates that the individual is about to cry hence the reason why she looked away. This sets the tone that she is upset about something which made her emotional. When describing someone’s voice we are also illustrating the intent of the message as well as the emotion that the individual is feeling without actually saying it.

I have provided a few examples of potential words that would describe someone’s voice when writing dialogue in any of your literary works. Google search engine obviously has more available, and I strongly recommend the usage when researching.

  • adenoidal (adj): if someone’s voice is adenoidal, some of the sound seems to come through their nose
  • appealing (adj): an appealing look/voice shows that you want help, approval, or agreement
  • breathy (adj): with loud breathing noises
  • brittle (adj): if you speak in a brittle voice, you sound as if you are about to cry
  • croaky (adj): if someone’s voice sounds croaky, they speak in a low, rough voice that sounds as if they have a sore throat
  • dead (adj): if someone’s eyes or voice are dead, they feel or show no emotion
  • disembodied (adj): a disembodied voice comes from someone who you cannot see
  • flat (adj): spoken in a voice that does not go up and down; this word is often used for describing the speech of people from a particular region
  • fruity (adj): a fruity voice or laugh is deep and strong in a pleasant way
  • grating (adj): a grating voice, laugh, or sound is unpleasant and annoying
  • gravelly (adj): a gravelly voice sounds low and rough
  • gruff (adj): this voice has a rough, low sound
  • guttural (adj): a guttural sound is deep and made at the back of your throat
  • high-pitched (adj): true to its name, a high-pitched voice or sound is very high
  • hoarse (adj): someone who is hoarse, or has a hoarse voice, speaks in a low, rough voice, usually because their throat is sore
  • honeyed (adj): honeyed words or a honeyed voice sound very nice, but you cannot trust the person who is speaking
  • husky (adj): a husky voice is deep and sounds hoarse (as if you have a sore throat), often in an attractive way
  • low (adj): a low voice is quiet and difficult to hear; also used for describing a deep voice that has a long wavelength
  • matter-of-fact (adj): usually used if the person speaking knows what they are talking about (or absolutely think they know what they are talking about)
  • modulated (adj): a modulated voice is controlled and pleasant to listen to
  • monotonous (adj): this kind of voice is boring and unpleasant due to the fact that it does not change in loudness or become higher/lower
  • nasal (adj): someone with a nasal voice sounds as if they are speaking through their nose
  • orotund (adj): an orotund voice is loud and clear
  • penetrating (adj): a penetrating voice is so high or loud that it makes you slightly uncomfortable
  • plummy (adj): a plummy voice or way of speaking is considered to be typical of an English person of a high social class; this word shows that you dislike people who speak like this
  • quietly (adj): in a soft, quiet voice
  • raucous (adj): a raucous voice or noise is loud and sounds rough
  • ringing (adj): a ringing voice is very loud and clear
  • rough (adj): a rough voice is not soft and is unpleasant to listen to
  • shrill (adj): a shrill voice is very loud, high, and unpleasant
  • silvery (adj): this voice is clear, light, and pleasant
  • singsong (adj): if you speak in a singsong voice, your voice rises and falls in a musical way
  • small (adj): a small voice is quiet
  • smoky (adj): a smoky voice is sexually attractive in a slightly mysterious way
  • softly spoken (adj): someone who is softly spoken has a quiet, gentle voice
  • soft-spoken (adj): speaking or said in a quiet, gentle voice
  • sotto voce (adj, adv): in a very quiet voice
  • stentorian (adj): a stentorian voice sounds very loud and severe
  • strangled (adj): a strangled sound is one that someone stops before they finish making it
  • strident (adj): this voice is loud and unpleasant
  • taut (adj): used about something such as a voice that shows someone is nervous or angry
  • thick (adj): if your voice is thick with an emotion, it sounds less clear than usual because of the emotion
  • thickly (adv): with a low voice that comes mostly from your throat
  • thin (adj): a thin voice or sound is high and unpleasant to listen to
  • throaty (adj): a throaty sound is low and seems to come from deep in your throat
  • tight (adj): shows that you are nervous or annoyed
  • toneless (adj): does not express any emotion
  • tremulous (adj): if your voice is tremulous, it is not steady; for example, because you are afraid or excited
  • wheezy (adj): a wheezy noise sounds as if it is made by someone who has difficulty breathing
  • wobbly (adj): if your voice is wobbly, it goes up and down, usually because you are frightened, not confident, or are going to cry
  • booming (adj): very loud and attention-getting
  • quavering (adv): if your voice quavers, it is not steady because you are feeling nervous or afraid
  • a voice like a foghorn: very loud voice
  • in an undertone: using a quiet voice so that someone cannot hear you
  • someone’s dulcet tones: the sound of someone’s voice as they speak
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