Amy Barnes asked Lisa Scottoline:

Hi Lisa! This may be an odd question but, when you very first started writing, how did you discipline yourself to keep at it in times of frustration? And what did you do during those times to get back to it? I'm writing a memoir and am having a difficult time trying not to critique myself too much. I was wondering if you had any helpful hints on the process. Thanks for your time!

Lisa Scottoline A, Good luck with your book! Honestly, the thing that kept me most disciplined while writing was my daughter and my mortgage. I set my self a word count each day, and I don't stop until I reach my goal. If I make it early, than I am free to do what I like the rest of the day, but if not, I can be at my desk till late at night. Also, be careful not to be too hard on yourself. Give yourself permission to write a crappy first draft. Just get the story down, and then make it better! You can do it! Thanks for writing. Best, L

flag