Priorities.

As of late, I feel like I’ve been able to get a grip on my daily routine and balance all of the things I expect of myself.  It’s somewhat of a constant battle that I have.  Every morning I start with a to-do list that is way too long and unrealistic.  But, then I focus on what HAS to be done that day and put my energy there.  And somehow, the rest of the not-as-important items seem to get done.

I just focus on this list:

1.  My wife

2.  My friends/family

3.  My health/working out

4.  My writing

5.  Chores/Errands/Neverending bullshit to-do’s

I want to be a professional screenwriter one day, so seeing it down at #4 may seem ridiculous.  However, I’ve had to just accept that I will always put the people important to me above my professional goals. 

And actually, when I tailor my daily schedule in such a way and prioritize my time with that list in mind, I’ve found that my writing is stronger and comes easier because my mind is at peace that the most important aspects are covered.

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One of the “have to” items today is to finish a scene for a short page contest at JustEffing.com.  I unfortunately didn’t see it until this morning and it’s due at the end of the day today, but the winner gets to enroll into Julie Gray’s “Learn The Secrets of Readers” class for free (normally $500).  I’ve been dying to take that class, so I’d be lame sauce if I passed up the opportunity.

If you want to enter the contest, DON’T, because that means more competition.  In all seriousness to those who are interested, it requires a single page scene that uses the words PARAMOUNT, AGENT, and JELLY FISH.  See the full rules, here.