At one point I decided it would be a good idea to move on from an old project to a new one. At first the shift was slow - I would continue to query the old project while I worked on the new one. Keep a lot of pots on the stove; stick a few more irons in the fire. Shoot a hundred arrows into the forest - surely one would stick!
But I have decided that I'm not a multitasker when it comes to passion. Not to say I
can't. I don't like to say that I
can't do anything. But when it comes to creative endeavor, I've finally determined that I prefer focused, precise action on a singular project. At least where writing is concerned. I can still paint and
dabble in
other areas - but a professional project slated, in my mind, for publication - requires the laser heat of all my excited passion and creative energy. It's difficult and counterproductive for me to jump between ships - even from a novel to a short story. When I do that, I am officially 'taking a break' from one project to favor the other.
I have to be obsessed. Physically, mentally, spiritually so obsessed and focused and bent on the future of a single project. I can do multiple aspects of a single project - the writing, the thinking, the planning, the market research - but thinking about another book? No. Not until the time comes - and it might - to let a project go.
I've come to terms with it.
How about you? Are you the kind of person who feels better with multiple projects, or do you prefer to focus on one?
Either way, happy creating!
~*~
