A few weeks ago, I wrote about getting up at 6 a.m. to write. I’ve continued with the experiment and I’ve been enjoying the results very much.
I’ve been surprised to notice a number of interesting side effects:
I feel better rested.
I’ve been going to sleep no later than 10 p.m. if I can possibly help it, and usually more like 9 or 9:30 p.m. I’ve read that you get the most regenerative sleep between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., and I’m finding that it is true.
I’m using my time much more wisely.
Something I’ve struggled with over the past year in particular is how I use my time in the evenings.
I was watching shows on streaming video… and then watching just “one more” until the evening was gone and it was far too late. Or obsessively playing iPhone games or looking at things online.
I felt like an out of control addict who was doing unhealthy things in the name of having “alone time.”
Instead, now I reward myself with little nibbles of these formerly addictive devices when I complete a task, and it doesn’t stop me from being efficient and effective. If anything I feel more effective because I’m enjoying these little breaks as true play.
I feel calm.
In part this is due to Just. Doing. The. Writing., but I believe it also has to do with doing it so EARLY.
Getting up at 6 not only demonstrates my commitment to myself and to my writing, but also helps me get it done. Instead of having it hanging over my head for an entire day (“When am I going to fit it in?”), which makes me feel incredibly guilty, I feel at peace when I do it first.
It’s like I’m saying, “I’ve done my hardest work. Now, what else is there?”
I feel happy.
A big part of feeling happy is the result of actively working to fulfill my calling as a writer.
But there’s also a kind of freedom and joy that comes from doing it first that is highly compelling.
Contrary to how it might appear from the outside, writing triggers a huge amount of fear for me, so facing it first (while still half asleep, I might add), creates such a huge sense of relief that happiness seems to rush in and fill the void.
How cool is that?
Your Turn
What does this inspire for you? Let us know on the blog.
~> Ongoing. My Protection & Grounding Jewelry is on close-out. Only a few items are left. Find them here.
~> January 23rd, 2012. The next session of my Writer’s Circle starts. Sign up here. Get my Free Writing Tips series too, and receive a coupon for a savings on your first 4 week session.
~> February 2, 2012. Start the new year fresh with your life purpose clear in your mind. My next life purpose breakthrough group session in on February 2. Details. Registration deadline: January 5.
~> Ongoing. Writing in the ProSeries class at ScreenwritingU.
~> Daily and especially Fridays. Sacred writing time. The Do Not Disturb sign is up.
~> Enjoying time off with my family.
