Tag Archives: Cait Collins

Should I?

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Outtakes 91

Should I?

By Cait Collins

 

I have learned there are some things a woman my age should not do. Like buy a pair of 4-inch heels. I’ve worn high heels since I was in high school, but they were two, maybe two-and-a-half inches. Maybe heels do make your legs look sexier and add inches of height to those of us who are vertically challenged, but they also mess with your balance, put stress on your back, and kill your feet. Sorry, but there’s only so much I will do in the name of beauty. However, I have new respect for the ladies that can pull it off.

By the same token, there are some things a writer should seriously consider before taking the plunge. Recent events, politics, religion, and social changes have spawned massive email and social media campaigns that are offensive and degrading. I believe in freedom of speech, but should I risk my professional image as a writer by posting negative comments about political parties, religions, or special interest groups? I don’t think so.

Have you listened to an actor, sports figure, or an author accuse a group or individual of being racist, behind the times, or people haters. Has your faith or your choice to take no stance on religion been disparaged? How have you responded? Have their words so enraged you that you refused to buy tickets to the person’s movies or sporting events? Have you quit buying books by certain authors? I know I have made those choices. I’ve blocked Facebook posts and emails because I was hurt and disappointed by careless comments from someone I had admired and respected.

We all have strong opinions and positions on various subjects. That’s right and good. The error comes in airing those views in such a way that we offend others. It is unprofessional to use our author pages and websites for such negative postings. Professional sites should be used to promote our work, not alienate the audience.

Pushing Deadlines

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Outtakes 90

 

Pushing Deadlines

By Cait Collins

I have no problem making appointments on time. Usually I’m a few minutes early. I try to apply the practice to my writing career. While I’ve done some of my best writing in a crunch, I do not recommend the practice. Pushing the envelope or missing the deadline could have serious consequences. Lose the idea a deadline is a guideline. Signing a contract is a commitment to provide the project by the specified date.

Begin working on the project immediately. If the research is complete, writing or editing can be set aside temporarily so that another project can be started or completed. Never wait until the last minute to start an assignment. Catch up is easier than a last minute start.

Planning and prioritizing are required to meet those multiple commitments. I use a white dray erase board and a planner to keep me on track. Every assignment is noted in my planner by date received and the due date. The white board tracks the progress of my projects. I do not use different planners and white boards for my career and my personal commitments. Dual tracking opens the door to double booking or missed appointments.

Each writer must develop his own method for tracking contracts, research, submissions, and personal commitments. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Whatever works, make every effort to get the project in on time. Life happens. None of us are immune to illness or the unexpected computer crashing. When life intervenes, contact the agent or editor immediately and explain why you may not be able to meet the contracted date. If given an extension, finish the work and submit it before the expected date. A one-time delay might be overlooked, but repeat offenses could damage a career beyond repair. When the decision comes down to two equally talented writers, the nod will most often go to the author with the best record for dependability.