Here's our question for this month: How do you deal with distractions when you are writing? Do they derail you?
As a working parent, I don't have much time to write. That means I have to make the most of sub-optimal writing time, when there are other things going on around me. I've had to write while waiting for my son to be done with an activity or write in places where people think it's OK to talk to me while I'm obviously got my tablet open. So yes, I do face a lot of distractions, but how problematic they are depends on the situation. If I'm already having trouble getting into the POV or I'm not sure what to say next, distractions become even more distracting. If I do manage to get into a state of writing flow, then it's easier to tune out distractions.
As far as actively trying to manage distractions while writing, I do this by controlling my environment when possible. Sometimes working at a familiar location or picking music that works as background noise helps. Other times, deliberately going somewhere to write, such as to a library or a coffee shop, makes me feel like I have to be more productive to justify the trip. Putting in extra effort helps me focus more.
What are your tips for dealing with distractions? Free free to share your tips in the comments.
