The question everyone with multiple ongoing projects should ask themselves is, "How is it working for you?" By how is it working, I mean are you completing the projects on a regular basis? If the projects are being completed, then there is no problem. You are an individual who can work on and complete more than one project at a time (this business is like all others--there are many "types" of individuals involved). However, if you are a beginning or developing writer and/or an unpublished writer, and you have multiple projects going but none completed, or you are having trouble completing the ones you are working on, you need an honest sit-down with yourself. The object of this writing game is to finish a project and get it out there. Then finish another one and get it out there. Period. If your brain is so scattered that you can't work up a series of projects, each to completion, you may not be fit for this business at this time, with your current approach. By far, the most important trait for any creative activity without specific deadlines is self-discipline. And on these threads, we hear all of the justifications, all of the rationalizations for jumping from unfinished project to unfinished project. My mind just can't stay on one idea. I have to get all of my ideas down or I'll forget them. I'm a good multi-tasker. I jump to another project when I get stuck on the one I'm working on. And my favorite--my muse does this or does that and keeps me from finishing. How convenient to blame a figment of your own mind to explain a fault in that same mind. Beats blaming the person in the mirror, doesn't it?
Easy isn't it? So easy to not finish anything. This isn't a rant, it's a challenge. For everyone who jumps to some other project every time writing get a little sticky on a current project, finish one and come back and shove it in my face. Show me I'm full of sh!t (but just don't tell me). Show me (don't just tell me) that you can finish a project and get it in shape to submit. I dare you. I'll be first to raise the flag of contratulations. But do it. Prove to everyone here at AW that I am full of sh!t. This is my finish-and-submit challenge. Maybe I'll open a thread for it.