It’s no secret I struggle with editing. I have so much fun writing the story, and have so many stories I want to tell, that I struggle with focusing on just one. I also know that if I am ever to achieve my dream of publishing my stories, I need to find a way to work editing into my writing routine.

It might help if I had a proper writing routine to begin with, but let’s ignore that for a second.

Because this post isn’t about that. It’s about me figuring out what might actually work when it comes to making myself sit my ass down and start editing. It’s all about rewarding yourself.

Not exactly blowing any minds here, I know, but it works. I’ve tried in the past with chocolate or other types of unhealthy food, but that doesn’t really work for me. Mostly cause eat those things anyway.

But today I thought of something that so far seems to be working. I took other things I like to do, besides writing, and told myself I couldn’t do those things unless I edited. What did I choose? Reading and TV of course!

1. For every one chapter I edit, I’m allowed to read one chapter in the book I’m currently reading. Right now this is Fool’s Errand by Robin Hobb. My second reading of a book I loved beyond words the first time around. I really want to start this and not put it down until I finish, but with my new rules I’m not allowed.
2. For every one chapter I edit, I’m allowed to watch one episode of a TV show. So, no TV unless I edit! It’s gonna be hard to stick to, but I know I can do it.
3. If I want to watch a movie instead of a TV series, It’s two chapters per one movie (three chapters for any LotR or Hobbit movie, since I only watch the extended versions)

With rewards like these, I should be able to finish editing TAO by the deadline. Cause I know I want to finish Fool’s Errand and also start on the new Harry Potter that arrived today!