I got up this morning all set to write and catch up on my poems for the PAD November Chapbook Challenge. Then, I was going to write toward NaNoWriMo. And guess what, I’m on my way to it.

I made my list last night, and allowed for Twitter and Facebook and blogging. After that, it was down to the projects that had deadlines. Two things went into this plan.

Time to Play

Twitter and Facebook are like play time for me. It’s where I get to relax, share with and learn from others. It’s my personal growth resource and that’s important. People try to say social media is bad, like guns and hate mail. You know, I find it’s always the person driving the vehicle that determines it’s benefit or danger.

And there are those who say it’s useless. The stats paint a different picture. If you are participating in marginal activities and hear naysayers in your head, it can be distracting. Know what’s important to you and include it in your tasks. Including the lighter tasks breaks up your day in positive ways.

Clear Outcomes

Sometimes my list is murky at best, with varied what ifs and maybes, and open ended deadlines. Those lists are helpful guides. Still, when I can be concrete, it helps me to formulate a clear vision in my head. Visualization helps me to know where I’m headed, how I’m getting there and when I’ve arrived.

Knowing What Comes Next

Generally, I like to go with the flow. And I like that flow inside of structured time. This afternoon, I’m going to be free and veg out in front of the TV for two hours. I’m going to indulge a guilty pleasure and watch back-to-back episodes of Murder, She Wrote. I’ll be sitting in the midst of a pile of books on writing and one for book club meeting this Sunday. And when I’m done with that, the next thing on my list will be waiting for me.

So, I have my list of things to accomplish. The goals are clearly delineated and I’m free to get to them however I see fit. And, at the end of the day, when I’ve put a line through as much as I can do I will feel content as long as I’ve done my best.

Do you find that planning helps or impedes your progress?