Tag Archives: catherine l. tully

advice, editorial, lifestyle

Time For Activity

Copyright 2005, Catherine L. Tully
Copyright 2005, Catherine L. Tully

by Catherine L. Tully

Yes…this is more ranting about how you need to get physical activity into your day as a writer. Here are four easy ways to add some:

1. Walk to the mailbox every time you need to mail something. Even if it is six blocks away. And yes, even if it’s raining. Bring an umbrella.

2. Pace while on the phone when possible. I know this won’t work for an interview, but for all other calls, walk the carpet.

3. Hang an index card on the wall above your computer that says, “stomach”. Every time you read it, sit up straight and tighten your stomach muscles for a count of 30.

4. Use a timer to keep yourself from sitting at the computer too long. Set it for half-hour increments and walk around for a few minutes when it goes off.

These are just a few simple tips that will keep you from toiling away at your desk for hours on end with no physical activity. Do what you can!

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10 Gift Ideas For Writers

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giftby Catherine L. Tully

Well, the holidays are right around the corner–so I thought I would do a “gift ideas” post for writers. Most of us are friends with other writers, so it goes without saying that we not only would like to get some of these, but can give a few as well. Please share if you have others!

Here are my ten suggestions:

1. Stephen King’s book, On Writing. It’s terrific.

2. A gift card for a nice meal out…. Continue reading 10 Gift Ideas For Writers →

gear, lifestyle

Motorola Droid

droidby Catherine L. Tully

There has been a lot of hype about the new Motorola Droid, but the question is–does it live up to the buzz? I personally have not held one in my hands, but I am here to share some reviews with you that may help you decide. Personally, I’m sticking with my (beloved) iPhone…

Check out CNET–they even do a video review–pretty cool.

The Huffington Post offers their input on the Droid.

PC Mag gives an extremely thorough review of the Droid and its capabilities.

All in all, it looks like the Droid is a winner…

advice, social networking

Twitter Directories

twitter for writersby Catherine L. Tully

Are you using Twitter to the best of your ability? Do you know how to find people to follow? Are you listed in a variety of Twitter Directories? If these questions make you nervous, you can probably use a little help on how to do this effectively. Good news…I’ve got some…

Here is a list of 20 Twitter Directories to get you going. It’s a good list too. While you are there, be sure and check out the rest of the site (TwitterTips) too….there is a lot of good stuff there.

advice, editorial

Changing Up Your Workstation

work areaby Catherine L. Tully

Have you been working at the same desk in the same spot for a long time? If so, perhaps you should change things up a bit. If you have a laptop, this is an easy task…simply take it to a new spot in the house, or head out to the coffee shop for a while. If you have a desktop, it may require a bit more planning.

First of all, consider the ergonomics. Can you find a place in your house where you can set things up properly in terms of monitor height, keyboard, etc.? Next, think outside the box. You don’t have to re-create the same setup you just had. Try and do something different for yourself to make the move worthwhile. Perhaps find a place with a view out the window, or use a new chair.

It may seem like a little thing, but sitting in the same spot day in and day out can sap your creative juices and make you feel stale. If you could use a little breath of fresh air in your writing, try moving your workstation and see if it helps.

advice

Planning For 2010

roadby Catherine L. Tully

It may seem totally crazy to start thinking about 2010 now, but I know from experience that planning is key when it comes to getting ready for the next business year. For many freelance writers, the slow season is coming, and there is no better way to get through it than by making good use of the time.

From Thanksgiving until just after the Superbowl, things usually get a bit quiet. People are vacationing, spending time with family and generally not “on”. (Yes, even editors!) This means queries sit, magazines work ahead and the money comes in a lot more slowly.

While you can’t see what is coming up in the New Year, you can take the time to do the following:

+ Set goals for 2010

+ Clean and organize your workstation

+ Create a list of query ideas

+ Check and see what articles you may be able to re-slant and re-sell in the coming months

+ Look for new markets

The slow season doesn’t have to mean that you don’t get anything done, and goal planning is truly essential to your career as a freelance writer. Get geared up to get things done instead of being discouraged that you aren’t working as much as usual. (Oh–and have a little fun too!)

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