Part of the appeal of writing fiction, for me, is imagining what it might be like to live another life. Social structures that would make me chafe; routines to which I couldn't conform; drama that I would never want to personally experience. With the Summer Olympics taking place in Paris this month, I've been contemplating the commitment of athletes and wondering about their training programs, their mindsets, and how they balance other activities in their lives. As someone who's athletic pursuits have always been casual, I'm both curious about and impressed by the dedication of professionals. What drives that particular person to work so hard at their sport? Does it come naturally to them, or do they need to continually fight for their ranking? What do they sacrifice in the name of being the best? What do they take for granted? What might change their priorities?
Viewpoints regarding success can vary so widely.
In any activity, there is a threshold at which your output will flag and the quality of your performance will diminish. When you're pressed against a deadline, it can seem logical to double down and put forth extra effort to complete the work; but being tired often leads to mistakes or injuries that will ultimately hinder progress. If you care for yourself like you would an instrument that is invaluable to your craft, you'll be better prepared to achieve your goals.
How do you define and measure success for yourself?
Holidays (offbeat, writing, and otherwise) to embrace this month:
July is National Hot Dog / Ice Cream / Picnic Month!
July 01 - International Joke Day | Canada Day
July 02 - World UFO Day
July 04 - US Independence Day
July 08 - Body Painting Day | Video Games Day
July 10 - Teddy Bear Picnic Day
July 12 - National Motorcycle Day (second Friday in July)
July 13 - Embrace Your Geekness Day | Oxymoron Day
July 14 - Bastille Day | Pandemonium Day | National Nude Day | Shark Awareness Day
July 20 - Moon Day
July 24 - Amelia Earhart Day
July 26 - All or Nothing Day | Summer Olympics 2024
Writer's block? Try this month's prompt!
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