Tag Archive for: #girlswhisperedmurder #1954 #cozymystery

The Art of Procrastination

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By Lynn McPherson 

There is a time in every author’s life that they are not in the mood for writing. For some, it comes in at predictable points–when they are struggling with a scene or a chapter. For others, it comes in waves, like during the onset of the Covid pandemic or during a summer heatwave. So what should an author do when the words just aren’t coming? Most importantly, don’t panic. The tendency to stew in a bubble of guilt and shame may be hard to avoid but beating yourself up will do you no good. Instead, why not try one of these three tips? You may have heard them before but some things deserve repeating…

1. Read!
Does this seem obvious? Maybe, but it’s still worth noting. With so many great book in existence, and more out every day, reading is always a good option.

2. Meditate?
Everyone is saying so, and it’s true. Nothing clears the mind better. There’s no need for a four-hour session. Why not sit quietly for ten minutes and see how it goes? The only goal is to clear your mind of thoughts and distractions. Ready to give it a try? I dare you.

3. Go Outside.
Mother nature provides us with a great way to get rid of stress. Fresh air and exercise does the body–and mind–good. Even if it’s not a balmy eighty degrees, it’s still worthwhile. As a wise friend reminded me last winter, it’s not too cold outside if you’re in the right gear. That goes for rain, wind, sun, or snow. Toss out the excuses and go for a stroll.

 There are loads of options for taking a break. What is your favorite way to decompress?

Lynn McPherson has worked for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, ran a small business, and taught English across the globe. She has travelled the world solo where her daring spirit has led her to jump out of airplanes, dive with sharks, and learn she would never master a surfboard. She now channels her lifelong love of adventure and history into her writing, where she is free to go anywhere, anytime. Her cozy series has three books out: The Girls’ Weekend Murder and The Girls Whispered Murder, and The Girls Dressed For Murder.   

Favorite Places to Write

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By Lynn McPherson
The other day I was struck by the fact that the desk I
bought two years ago has never been used for writing—its intended purpose.
Although handy for keeping my writing tools organized—pens, notebooks, and
post-it notes, I’ve yet to sit at it and write a word. Instead, most mornings
I’ve chosen to settle into my kitchen table, with a cup of coffee, and start my
day my looking out onto the wooded area behind my home while cracking open my
laptop. Later on, I often head out to the nearby café, brimming with life and
chatter, to soak in the energy. The desk, facing a wall in the corner of my
bedroom, has yet to seem appealing.
I’ve come to realize that I like two things when I write.
First, a view. It doesn’t need to be the sunrise over the horizon or the Eiffel
Tower (although If I could choose anywhere, that would certainly be first). But
the large bay window, with the sun shining down on the trees, or the clouds
moving in for another rainy day, is a much better option than a boring beige
wall. I also enjoy being surrounded by daily life and movement. The birds,
squirrels, and deer are an endless source of interest behind my home. Often,
even better, are the tidbits of conversations to be overheard at the busy
coffee shop between friends or colleagues as they go about a hectic day.

Some writers find a lot of movement distracting—and prefer a quiet place to focus—but I find life inspiring.

How about you? Where do you like to work? Do you need a quiet
place to concentrate or a busy atmosphere teeming with life?


Lynn McPherson has worked for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, ran a small business, and taught English across the globe. She has travelled the world solo where her daring spirit has led her to jump out of airplanes, dive with sharks, and learn she would never master a surfboard. She now channels her lifelong love of adventure and history into her writing, where she is free to go anywhere, anytime. Her cozy series has two books out: The Girls’ Weekend Murder and The Girls Whispered Murder.