"Mood"? "Mood"??? This is writing, not lovemaking! :-D
Seriously, just set your word count for the day and get it done. If you only write when you're in the "mood" you will be a very unproductive writer.
you’ve misinterpreted the question, Steve, but did manage to inject some humor into your reply; so you'll be let off the hook this time ;-)
I wasn't asking how to get into the mood to write, but how to write even if you're not, in the mood, which is something a number of writers face.
My own reluctance stems in large part from laziness. I love writing and derive great satisfaction from it, along with a smattering of loot, but writing still isn't an easy thing to sit down and do, especially when there are so many other activities that are a lot more fun in the short run, like watching tv or chatting with chums.
As others have mentioned, there are also the pressing demands of earning a living to pay the bills and a host of other responsibilities that can sap ones energy, making the act of sitting down to write seem like a Herculean labor.
Fortunately I've been able to surmount my reluctance, and triumph over my laziness, in part, by setting hourly goals, which has proven effective in getting me to write consistently throughout the years.
But power to you and others who have the discipline and strength of character to be able to just sit down and write whenever you want, without any hesitancy. What I wouldn't give to be able to do that!
p.s. Your 24-48 hour writing marathons astound me, Use Her Name. You're as productive as the protag in Jack London's semi-autobiographical novel Martin Eden, who became a bestselling author in just 2 years, by putting in 20-hour days of writing, made even more staggering by the fact that he could barely read when he first set out to become an author.
p.p.s. Interesting replies, everyone, and informative too.
Will be using some of your tactics when I’m feeling sluggish, like I am at present.
Works like a charm.
