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Aug 20Liked by Mallary Tenore Tarpley

If I don't write first thing in the morning, it often doesn't get done. I typically show up at my desk between 8-8:30 am and work til noon. On a good day I can get back to it for a while in the afternoon. More often my afternoons are my time to read, also time well spent.

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That is good dedication, Tess! I like how you break up the day, with writing in the morning and reading in the afternoon. I used to write at night, but it kept me up. Now I read at night, and it helps me fall asleep.

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Aug 21Liked by Mallary Tenore Tarpley

I so wish I could write at night ... go back up to my desk after dinner for even an hour or two. But most days my brain has shut down by then. :)

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Co-writing Zoom appointments have been the cornerstone of my writing practice for the past couple years. There are a couple sources offering free sessions (Kimberly McElhattan and Allison K. Williams, among others). The appointment with myself, and the accountability of the group setting, help me so much. I’m also in some peer groups that grew out of writing workshops, that continued to gel after the workshops ended.

I also decided not to discount the notes I take in my Notes app, or journaling. It’s all part of my thinking like a writer and contributes to final, published pieces.

Brainstorming and metacognitive drawing are also something I must do weekly. As for daily schedule, that fluctuates a little more.

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Thanks for sharing this, Michelle! I'm glad the co-writing appointments have been so helpful. (I'm a fan of Allison K. Williams too!)

Totally agree with you about not underestimating the Notes app; I find it's great for when I have an idea or burst of inspiration on the go. Helps make writing more accessible.

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