“Arrrgh,” I said falling back across the unmade bed and shielding my eyes from the pernicious glare of the noonday sun. “I languish in middlebook!”
I knew I was a starter. Who doesn’t love the thrill of starting a new project? Redecorating a room, sewing a quilt, painting a masterpiece. (I’m the redecorating a room example. I mentioned the others to relate to my audience.) A finish is fun too. The thrill of seeing your completed handiwork provides the incentive to strive to the end.
But what to do in the 80% middle when the excitement has worn off and you’re down to the hard work with no end in sight?
Here are some suggestions I’ve gleaned:
1. Make a plan - e.g. I’m going to write two pages on my novel every day
2. Be consistent - Follow the plan and avoid procrastination. (not so easy)
3. Minimize distractions – email, facebook, TV, phone calls, laundry, housecleaning … (OK, somedays I’m desperate for distractions)
4. Reward yourself for being consistent - A lovely piece of chocolate will do.
5. Keep track of your progress so you can see how far you’ve come - e.g. photographs of your quilt/masterpiece in stages. (I keep a log of written pages)
6. When you bog down, remember your original goal and why you want to achieve it!
Do you have any other suggestions for staying motivated in the mundane middle?
Have a fabulous week.
"I keep pursuing the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly call in the Messiah, Jesus."
(Phil. 3:14 ISV)
Fool’s Notion: Week 5 Goal 80 Actual 64