What could you do differently?

I love this prompt. As writers, we get blocks in our process and each have various tricks to get out of that slump.

My biggest problem is trying to start perfectly: interesting premise, first couple of paragraphs eloquently flowing through my pen/keyboard, and then it all flows from there. It doesn’t work like that all the time.

My best writing has always come from a place of awareness – paying attention to the world around me, and staying open to lessons and discoveries everywhere my body, eyes and ears travel.

Today I said, screw the premise. Just start. So here I am tapping away in a busy barbershop on my iPhone mini with my fat thumbs.

So what am I most aware of?… I’m aware of momentum. And once you start moving, no matter how slow, you have it. Most modifications are more easily made once you are out of the garage vs. starting over every time and trying to be perfect.

Once I sit down in Leo’s chair, he is in control. The clippers come out and he is going to do his best to deliver what I ask for. Will it be perfect? Who knows. But we have to start with a single hair and hope it all takes form as the scissors snip away.

Now he has cut my hair before – and performed very well – which is why I am waiting extra time for him.

To be continued..