9/12/08

To Loll Creatively



When it comes to writing, I am a creative lollygagger for sure. Not that I don't want to write like the wind constantly. But outside things can get in the way and cramp my writing style.

Knowing how we hit that wall of blocks sometimes, I thought it was a good time to remind myself as well as others about creative lollygagging, which I discussed in a post a while back.

Just Remember the key to successful lollygagging is to do it creatively. So what makes lollygagging creative lollygagging? Let's look at the basic elements. First, consider activity. We are not talking about sitting around on a couch. Just as a satellite dish needs electricity, you need some blood pumping into that brain. Next, consider low focus. The activity shouldn't be so intense that you don't have time to think (Grand Prix and ice hockey are out). Look for a mellow pursuit, surrounded by low-level distractions. Finally, consider separation. If you don't hie thee away from the computer, the television, the bills and the kids, you're headed for a mighty wall o' brain-lock.

Sometimes I take long quiet walks along a waterway and watch the easy rise and fall of the waves. Other times I stake out a secluded spot, notebook in hand in case of ideas, at a favorite coffee shop. So what are some of the creative ways you use to get over writer's block?

Kaye

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

Oh yes, I do know how to loll around and not write! But using that time creatively is something of an art.

Helen Hardt said...

LOL, does blogging count as creative lollygagging? I do my share of that!

Seriously, I like to walk my dogs, or sit in a coffee shop, or read. Sometimes reading energizes me more than anything. I'm so inspired by a good book.

Helen

Suzanne Brandyn Author said...

Writers Block... it strikes every so often.I usually take a long walk on the beach, or go shopping lol... I distance myself for one to two days, whatever it takes then suddenly thoughts spring to my mind. I jot them down then head back to my computer...but I'm rarely away from my wip for more than a day. Yes and inspiration does come to me also when reading a really good novel.

Suzanne :)

Linda Banche said...

Two weeks ago when I walked to the library, I plotted out a whole story.

Writing does need some prep time. If you think about what you're going to write before you actually write, you start a little sooner. Think of it as the warm up. You can warm up at the keyboard, or you can do it while you're folding the laundry.

Kaye Manro said...

It's great to be able to plot stories while doing other things, isn't it--

Thanks to all for sharing your own lolling ways!

Anonymous said...

We all have those days, don't we? I guess I like to visit my favorite coffee shop and just read.

Anonymous said...

I know what you mean. Of course I'm so new at this writing game that I'm not sure when I'm lolling!

Anonymous said...

Creative lolling has always been in my blood!

Cari said...

I sure wish I could loll around! But alas, I have way too much practice, rehearsals and classes to stop for a minute.

Christina Phillips said...

I try and sort out knotty plot problems when I'm working out (haha me exercising!)so I tell myself I'm exercising my brain as well as my body...! but I still love that word, lollygagging. It's just delicious!!!