Today's post

Sometimes, you just have to do write, regardless of what that it is. Today, it is back to the blog, no apologies, although, I certainly want to make one. Amazing, that voice that always says we should do more, be more. Today, I just want to write a bit, hang with the dogs, and eat something very, very spicy. Or ice cream. Hit the gym. Read a poem. Read a client's review feedback. That is enough.

Maybe this post really is not really about academic writing, or maybe it is.

Stop and Give Me a Half Hour!

Let's start the week right (Write!). As soon as you get this, and as soon as humanly possible (meaning, your not going into class or your lack of attention will not lead contribute to the demise of a minor), write for 30 minutes on your primary writing project. Don't think about it, just get after it!

Challenge: Your Next Book (or Your First!)

Spend some time thinking about what your next book might be (if you indeed have published one before). If not, consider your first book. What is the book that you have always wanted to write? What is the nature of the book? Who is the audience? What would it take to pull it off? What are the pros and cons of writing it at this stage of your career? What would stop you from writing it? What skills, tool and resources do you possess what would facilitate successfully writing and publishing your book? What supports would you need to be successful?

Do some freewriting to help you explore these questions. 

Beyond Self Published Books: The Concept for Book Two

After scholars and authors publish a first book, they can have many conflicting feeling. Of course, there is a profound sense of joy, pride, and gratitude. Often, the feeling of personal and professional competence that one experiences is profound.

Yet, sometimes these more positive feelings are mixed with some more difficult emotions. I have talked to some scholars and writers who have felt a profound sense of sadness and fear, as they wonder if they have another book "in them."

This may be particularly true for those who self-published their first book.  Since there book was not vetted through the sometimes rigorous peer- review of university presses, or the scrutiny of an editor of a commercial press who has to insure that the book meets consumer needs, self-published scholars at times wonder about the actual value of their first book, and wonder if they can pull off a " real" second book. Not that self published books are not real, but I have heard these self doubts many times.

When such fears and doubts attack, you may wish to consider developing the concept for your second book.  Working on the concept for book two can help reduce some of your fears. After all, you already wrote a full length manuscript, so you know that you can write the words

There are several ways of thinking about the concept for your second book, First, consider what would be a valuable extension of your first book. What did the writing of this book suggest was missing from the literature? What needs to still be done in this area? What do you need to still say? Do a freewrite on these issues.

Second, you may wish to consider how you can "reapply" the analytical tools and approaches of your first book to a different area or sub-area.

Third, now that you have your first book out of the way, what would you "really" like to write?

Forth, think strategically. What would help your career along?

These are just a few ideas to help you develop your next book concept. This does not mean that you have to immediately begin writing on the first concept you think of. In fact, I would suggest a bit of a cooling off period. However, knowing that you have a second concept on hand can be empowering.

Most importantly, make sure you celebrate your first book. You did it! Feel good about it. Take it in.

Challenge: Help a Struggling Colleague

Your challenge for today: think of a colleague who is struggling with their writing and/or publishing. Consider what I wrote last week about how to engage those who are struggling, and reach out to them. Be of service. Please.

Engaging Struggling Colleagues: Resources

If you are reading this blog on a regular basis, chances are you are thinking about and using resources related to academic writing and publishing. Make a list of your favorite resources. Have this be a gift to give to those who are struggling.

You can include web-based tools, books, articles, blogs (hint hint), or coaches or therapists who help struggling scholars (not meant to be a hint hint, but sure, why not!). Keep this list on hand to share. Send it to those you know via email. Ask others for their resources. Share the wealth. 

Engaging Struggling Colleagues: Listening

When engaging colleagues who are struggling, you really has to listen deeply. A couple of days ago I suggested that telling your own story of struggles and difficulty was one of the most important things you could do to be of service to colleagues in need. This can help build empathy and trust, and break down defensiveness.

Yet, on the most fundamental, basic level, you need to listen. An old Quaker expression, "Listen with the ear of your heart" is my most cherished guidance on listening. Listen with your whole self. Listen without worrying what you will say next.  As I teach my social work and criminal justice students (I am teaching Helping Skills in Criminal Justice this quarter!), you will never hear anybody say: So and So listens to tell. I hate the way he and she listens to me so intently.

So, listen. Provide a safe place for your struggling colleague to be heard.