Imagine a world where there are no deadlines. All the stress of having to get something done is gone, and you can just do whatever you like all the time. While that world can be wonderful to imagine (particularly when you’re up against the clock), it probably wouldn’t be a very productive place.
I’ve made the decision to start offering developmental editing services in September, but there’s no one breathing down the back of my neck to get it launched, other than me. I tried getting a vacuum cleaner pipe and stretching it round behind me so I was literally breathing down the back of my neck, but somehow that didn’t help my motivation. When that failed, I made a better choice and joined an accountability group.
We have weekly video calls and discuss what we each want to focus on, and then list our goals for the week in a Slack group. (The irony of getting things done via an app called Slack isn’t lost on me.) So far, the group has helped me to finish reading Make a Scene by Jordan Rosenfeld, and plan some blog posts for the future.
It’s great to chat with other motivated people in the editorial world and form friendships as we meet our goals. I’ve found the atmosphere to be really supportive so far, with everyone celebrating wins when someone achieves what they wanted to. The group’s still in its early stages and we’re all finding our feet with it, but I have high hopes that it will keep us moving forward for a long time to come.
Are you part of an accountability group? Do you find it helpful for hitting your targets? Get in touch and let me know!
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