After the Deadline... Annie West

As I write this I'm existing in that rare state that authors so look forward to, known as 'after the deadline'. I handed a book in just recently after an enormous push to finish that's left me feeling a bit zombie-like. No blood around the mouth but I'm feeling unco-ordinated and I find it easier to groan than make rational conversation. I suspect my brain may have gone on holiday for a short time, but that's fine because I'm 'after the deadline'. Yippee!

What to do after deadline #1: celebrate!



I remember the days when I dreamed of being a published writer. Obviously (because it was a lovely daydream) I focused on the good things. Tossing off a few chapters before lunch with friends, opening glowing letters from fans and editors, reaping in royalties, research in exotic locations, you know the sort of thing. What I didn't think about was the reality of delivering a book, make that several books a year at a time that suits your publisher.

 

I'm not complaining. I love being a published author and the positives are fantastic, but I've learned that the deadline cave is a place I'd prefer not to be in. Give me the wide open spaces, the sense of freedom, the creaky movement in limbs that have cramped from too long sitting at the computer. Give me 'after the deadline'.

What to do after deadline #2: treat yourself to goodies.

I'm finding that this time, 'after the deadline' is not quite as relaxed as I'd hoped. Life at the moment is full of demands - some things I put off till that magic 'after the deadline' time and some that have crept up on me and just cannot be ignored.

 

So, while I'm sorting out these things that need attention, I'm planning what I'll do to make the most of this down time as soon as the coast is clear.

 

First up comes celebrating. Any achievement deserves celebration and finishing a book is a fine excuse to treat yourself whether it be with bubbly, high tea, a visit to a day spa, a shopping outing with mates, or a visit to the movies. Maybe it's a serve of churros and hot chocolate or a long leisurely brunch with friends.

 

What to do after deadline #3 - exercise - you need it after the treats and all that sitting.

After being tied to the computer while writing, my body is definitely stiff and sort. I need to get moving again. I've tried to keep fit while writing but facing a deadline the exercise wanes. Even if you have an exercise regime most of the time, getting out and breathing fresh air is a must.

 

What else? I'm tossing up between a reading a squillion of the unread books on my shelves or a marathon DVD session with 'North and South' and Richard Armitage. Sigh - books or Richard? Maybe both!

What to do after deadline #4: read!

And of course, how could I forget? Coming out to blink at the family and get reacquainted with them is always a good thing! After all, they've put up with you while you've been immersed in that other world and if you're lucky they'll do it again when you dive into the next book.

 

How about you? Do you have any suggestions on what to do 'after the deadline'? What do you most look forward to when you've finished a big job and finally have some time to breathe?

 

(Note, I'm away from my computer today but will be back as soon as I can to chat).