Rewards and Consequences and Shiny Toys

March 9th, 2010 | by Beth Barany

3 Comments

I want a new writing toy. But I haven’t been writing fiction regularly. So I set up a reward for myself. If I can write regularly [4-5 times a week] and turn in two Neochapters to my writing group on time (next week — yikes!), then and only then do I get to order the new Neo, well, after I turn in my old one and get the $25 rebate. Woot!

Oh — I do need some consequences spelled out, if I don’t do as I plan. Okay — well, that’s simple.  If I don’t send in my two chapters as planned, on the date we all decided, the there will be no new Neo, and I must pound away at the old one. At least for now.

The old one is ten years old, in fact, and called an AlphaSmart. I guess they don’t make them anymore. There’s nothing really horribly wrong with it. I’m typing on it now. Maybe the double A batteries need replacing. And the keys are a little hard to punch.

A few years ago, I accidentally-on-purpose erased the cool word processing software. Other than that it works. Until I get moving on my fiction [ie. 4-5 times a week, plugging away, either before or after work] then I won’t replace it. Got it, self? Got it!

What unusual thing, gadget or toy get you motivated you to write?

 

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Categories: Creativity Tools and Tips

3 Responses to “Rewards and Consequences and Shiny Toys”

  1. Beth Barany Says:
    March 9th, 2010 at 6:20 pm

    PS> Since I started this game with myself about a week ago, I’m writing. Shhh. It’s a secret. Don’t tell Beth!

  2. Lori Says:
    March 13th, 2010 at 4:25 am

    I wish there was something to get me motivated too. I’ve got nothing! What can I promise myself? Nice thing to think about.

  3. Beth Barany Says:
    March 13th, 2010 at 10:19 pm

    Lori, I wish there was too. Are you writing? What has worked for you in the past? Do tell!

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