Wednesday, July 23, 2008

inevitable


So, the deadline for the art of my new novel has been pushed up to…as soon as possible. I’m still determined to do my best quality work; however I know how this song goes. As my illustration activity level escalates to full capacity, my physical activity level diminishes to nonexistence; and #3 of the ten things I’ve learned becomes an unwelcome reality. It is inevitable—the shorter the deadline, the more unhealthier (and chubbier) I become.

And even though I foresee my fatty future, I seem unable to change it. Because not only do I spend my waking hours sedentarily sitting, my eating habits become appalling. My creative brain cells demand candy and pizza, calling labor strikes if I resist. The truth is I am completely unable to create well for extended periods of time unless fueled by unhealthy, high fat food. My focus seems to be sugar driven-- if I remember correctly I was on about three bags of candied ginger a day while writing WHERE THE MOUNTAIN MEETS THE MOON. I shudder to think what is upcoming...

If anyone has any helpful tips (other than hitting the gym like a maniac when my deadline is over) I'd be thrilled to hear them!

1 comment:

Phyllis Harris said...

First, let me just say, I can completely relate!

But, when I have an insane deadline and have to huncker(sp?) down, I find that if I stock up on easy food, like Lean Cuisine t.v. dinners, it's just easier to pop them into a microwave and not leave the house. And the calorie count on those dinners are usually pretty small because the portions are small. I have actually lost a few pounds doing this on insane deadlines...BUT I also find that I HAVE to have something sweet, like chocolate after I eat. The hardest part is being disciplined to stop eating the chocolate, once I start.