Writing Lessons from Frisbee Golf

My son and I needed something to do over Easter break, and we were so tired of being stuck inside that we didn't care the temperature was 49 degrees. We bought discs, headed to the nearest frisbee golf course, and had a blast!

June brought tons of rain--plus I barely left the house due to my writing schedule--so last Friday, my son and I gladly took advantage of the sunny weather to play another round. Again, we loved it. This time we tried different throwing techniques. My son excels at the overhand throw, while my underhand roll helped get the disc farther. It reminded me of my evolution with writing.

When I first started writing, I simply fired up the computer and wrote. I wasn't worried about word counts or pre-writing or grammar. It was about getting a story down on paper. The same with frisbee golf--I didn't worry about proper technique--I simply threw the disc and hoped it would eventually make it into the chains!

As my writing progressed, I tried various plotting methods, studied grammar, and paid attention to my word count. I wanted to not just write a book--I wanted to write a good book. With frisbee golf, I wanted to make it in the basket with fewer attempts. This meant using different grips, paying attention to the wind direction, and focusing before throwing.

My son is far, far better at this game than I am. But why compare? I can only work on my own game. Writing is the same way. Why worry about other authors? I can only improve my own writing.

At the end of the day, if we want to get better at something, we have to focus, be willing to accept that our first way might not be the best method, try different approaches, and put the blinders on to the other players. And we have to practice, practice, practice!

Have you tried a new activity lately? If yes, did you enjoy it? If no, why not?

Have a wonderful Monday!!

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