Writing 101

Hey, it is that time again...

Time to share some of the tools and processes I use to get stuff done. This time, how do I prepare to write my newsletter issues (of which this is one)? Great question! First things, First! It also works for writing code.

As you see in the header image, my checklist starts with a quiet place. Today, I am home alone so I am in the living room. No need for headphones. Writing most text of any length on the Chromebook, again today. Probably no need for the mouse as the trackpad is very easy to navigate after years and years of practice.

As Pandora is playing on my #Amazon Echo Spot, @Shazam was used to capture the song playing. As I do not speak or understand Spanish, it is easy and FREE to use the Maimi Regaettón Station for white noise. For almost 20 years the FREE edition of Pandora has been perfect for me. If you don't change channels or interact, it plays fewer and fewer commercials.

The iPad is for quickly checking sources, doing math, and doing miscellaneous tasks that are easier to perform on a tablet. Last "housekeeping" item to have at the ready?

timer-tab dot com

As you can see, we are about twenty-one (21) into this writing session. Some of that was spent on the graphics (like the above) with the gimp FOSS tool. Which has been a "go-to" item for over twenty years as well if memory serves.

The timer is used to track the Pomodoros. I use Pomodoro Technique to stay focused and by trial and error discovered that a 27min "focus" timeslot works best for me. If you need more time, take a 6min break then reset the 27min timer. That neatly gives you an hour on task. Be sure to get up and move about on the break(s).

Got it? Great!

If I can help, give me a shout.

P.S. If you are a Thought Leader AND a first-time published author looking to "do better" with your next book, check out this Book Deal, and if there is interest, Text me.