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The writing process

Linda WolffWhen I was asked to join a group of lovely, talented writers who are taking turns sharing their unique writing process, I jumped at the chance, because oh goody I get to talk about me! I love learning about writers' creative process and, in turn, discovering and sharing my own.

Why do I write what I do?

I wanted to be a writer ever since I got my hands on my first diary. (Oh, those drama-filled pages!) My dream was to create my own magazine, so my dad bought me a notebook with dividers, which I filled withridiculous amazing content. My vision was a kind of a Cosmo meets Tiger Beat.

As a former shy girl, writing opened up a whole new world and way in which to live large. Occasionally, I write heavy pieces, but then I think who on earth would want to read that, so I purge my soul and find the funny, which I much prefer to share. It brings me much joy to know I've made people laugh or brought a little sunshine to their day. One of the perks of writing is that it's given me the chance to meet so many talented, wonderful people whom I now call friends.

How does my work differ from others of its genre?

I think we all have a unique voice. I've been told that my voice is like the warm, funny, yet savvy girlfriend you love chatting with over a long lunch. Wait…maybe that's just me - anyway - I've always been someone who people come to to share their life and ask advice. And, obviously, I enjoy putting my two cents in. I'm having a good time here, and I think that's reflected in my work.

How does my writing process work?

Everything begins with coffee. Then the hair has to be dealt with. It's impossible to focus unless the entire unruly mop is affixed to the top of my head, a la Marge Simpson. (Voila, I can see!) Then I sit at my desk, which is covered with colorful Post-it notes filled with scribbled blog ideas and funny lines - organization isn't my forte - and then I do what I do best.

Procrastinate.

Often I would rather focus on social media than write - so much easier! When I'm up against a deadline is when I start cleaning out drawers. I'm convinced this helps with the creative process.

When get really stuck, I go for a walk and listen to music - it's when ideas come alive and I take notes (imagine Mr. Magoo walking blindly between darting cars). Then I come home, grab a bottle of water or cup of tea, and write. Stare at the screen. Send a text. Write. Edit. Get up, do a few laps around the kitchen, eat some snacks, then rewrite some more. Often, finding a typo just after I click publish. It's a labor of love, really.

What am I working on?

I have several projects simmering on the burners right now. I'm a little superstitious so I don't like to share until the ink is dry, but I have created a blogging/writing bucket list and I'm slowly (oh, dear God, slowly!) working my way through it.

Having a bucket list keeps me focused on my goals (and less on online shopping), which tend to evolve and become more clear each year. Of course, I write about where I'm at in my life so expect a post or two about hitting a major milestone birthday soon! Those of you not yet 30, I'll let you know how it is;).

- Linda Wolff

Linda Wolff writes the blog Carpool Goddess where she shares her adventures from carpool to empty nest. She no longer drives carpool, but that's our little secret. Her work has appeared on The Huffington Post, Yahoo! Shine, Scary Mommy, Better After 50, Generation Fabulous and others. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter.

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