Heading for the final stretch

Now it’s down to business. I’m hoping to finish my book, “Before You Say Yes …” on boards of directors this week. Down to the last 5,000 words. It’s been a tremendous pleasure to write and research. I’ve spoken to so many amazing individuals with such a willingness to share their expertise, experiences and insights. Despite my own personal experience on numerous boards, this project would have not had the depth of vision and strength of voice without their input.

But what is it about writers and procrastination? Why is it that so often, as we approach completion of a major project, we seem to be distracted with other things that prevent us from crossing the finish line?

A friend of mine referred me to this spot-on essay by Will Ferguson that recently appeared in the Globe & Mail. If you’re a writer, check it out. I’m sure you’ll be able to relate.

I can really relate to what Ferguson says. Somedays when I try to write, every possible distraction has my attention. Every other possible task seems more urgent.

Yet, I love to write and I love what I am writing. The desire is there. But somedays, it seems like someone has forgotten to put the quarter in my slot. Someone has forgotten to turn on the “write” meter.

Perhaps that someone is me. But no more. The time has come to do the deed. To complete the task. To finish writing that book.

So watch for “Before You Say Yes …” in March. It will be published by Dundurn Press. Find it in their Spring 2010 catalogue: http://dundurn.com/

An early review say it will be a tremendous success. Fingers crossed that review is spot on, and that everyone who reads the book will find it to be the long awaited treasure I am hoping for.