Guest Blogger - Dorothy Howell

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING




With the holiday season upon us, most of us are thinking about gifts. Gifts for our children, family, and friends, and gifts of charitable donations for those less fortunate.

Time is a precious commodity at this time of the year – and in very short supply. We often find ourselves rushing from the mall, to the grocery store, to the hair dresser, to a school play, a religious service, a band concert or choir performance. And don’t forget the shopping. We absolutely have to find the perfect gift for everyone on our list.

But how about a gift for yourself? One that will last forever – and one you certainly deserve.

The gift of time. Time to write.

It’s easy to get distracted during the holiday season with so many things on our plates. Often we think that everything else is more important than our writing. It’s the one thing we can shuffle to the back burner. Then, if we do carve out some time to write, often we feel guilty for doing it.

Are there many other important things we could—and should – do with our time? Of course. But remember that you’re important too. Doing something you enjoy – in the case of every writer I know, it’s writing – will fulfill you, and put you in a better frame of mind to keep giving to those who need and depend on you.

Writing stimulates your brain, gets your imagination going. The story you’re creating takes you out of your everyday life to a magical place. Your characters can be your best friends, sometimes, or at least people you enjoy spending a few hours with everyday.

How much time can you give to yourself and your writing? That depends on your circumstances. If you have young children or a demanding job, maybe not so much time for yourself. If your children are grown and things are winding down in your life, more time is available to you.

The important thing is that you claim this time for yourself – and use it without feeling guilty. You need it. You deserve it. You’ll be a better person for it. You’ll also be a good example to others by showing them that it’s okay to make time for themselves too.

What better gift is there?



Happy Reading!

Dorothy Howell

www.DorothyHowellNovels.com

Fan Dorothy Howell Novels at www.facebook.com