Reaping rewards
It was suggested that I should celebrate when I finished my FD the other day. It never even occurred to me, maybe because this “ending” is more like a middle, one more box checked, but surely not all. So I contemplated what would be an appropriate reward for this milestone. When I had my first two stories published in the Chicago Tribune on back-to-back Sundays two years ago, I used some of the money to buy a ring. I am a lover of all things that sparkle, and jewelry fits the bill time and time again. A ring could and would be worn on my finger, on a hand that works as the agent of my ideas clicking and popping around the keyboard putting my words in some kind of savable format. I love my ring and I wear it often – I see it and it reminds me of a very big step (paid freelancing in a national market). But, how many rings can someone wear? I don’t wear more than two – one on each hand. Usually I just wear one.
And what else would signify this accomplishment? A manicure? A purse? A nap? And if my reward distracted me from the daunting editing task ahead, would it really be a reward or a setback?
I couldn’t really bring myself to do anything except cook an easy dinner (as opposed to a day-long event that is eaten in twenty minutes) and I went to sleep early, which for me means 10pm. Today I’m not wearing make-up. Woo hoo! I really know how to live!
I have to say that the excitement itself is its own reward. At least for now.
At what point or points do you reward yourself during the writing process? And, what do you do or where do you go or what do you buy?
How’s about an ink bottle tattoo, with an added quill when you sign your agent?
I do the little things all along the way…mani, naps, a new watch maybe. Oh, and going to a few really good conferences each year. Congrats and lots of energy to forge ahead with edits.
Um, I don’t. I should! I start writing the next thing, usually right away. Usually I can’t wait, so that’s my reward! And putting away the old one… usually I’m so sick of it by then!
I love your rewards. As long as they mean something to you, that’s all that matters. I give myself a day off as a reward, but since I haven’t earned any money (yet), no actual purchases for me.
I still say chocolate fits the bill.
But you’re right – finishing the first draft isn’t the end, but really, just the beginning of another process.
I am not a writer, but do realize the value of rewarding myself for professional accomplishments.What I have done for the last 2 years is to mark milestones by buying 3 boxer briefs at Banana Republic (buy 3 and get 25% off total…a standing offer). This seems silly, but it’s benefit is compounded and immortalized by the ability to do laundry less and less often as a result.
Um… I’m kinda boring. My reward is to take a break from writing and curl up with a good book and a cup of tea (chai with honey, if you please). I don’t get to read that often anymore, so that’s a little slice of heaven for me. Oh, and I have to agree with Melissa: can’t get enough chocolate!
When I think about it, it’s really more a “celebration” than a “reward” (though, to be sure, a reward is a celebration in itself!). Mr. Authoress and I CELEBRATE when I reach any kind of milestone. Even a request for the full manuscript is cause for CELEBRATION. And wine (or champagne!) is often included.
Splitting hairs, perhaps. But I love any reason to celebrate!