Greetings, writers and non-writers alike. Are you in a pinch with a project? For help focusing on any task, consider what I call the S.U.D.S. method. It deserves a lot of credit for helping me complete my most recent book, for example. That was From the Porch to the Page: A Guidebook for the Writing Life. New Wings Press, LLC. 2022.
I’ve shared S.U.D.S. here on the blog before, but I thought I’d remind us of it again. It’s so simple, yet powerful. It’s been an especially helpful motto in all aspects of my life, not only with my writing.
What is S.U.D.S.?
The S.U.D. part of the acronym is a quote from Arthur Ashe (famed tennis player). Click → here. I added the final “S.”
S = Start where you are. Acknowledge how you feel and what the problem or challenge actually is that you face.
U = Use what you have. Consider also how to reuse, repair, recycle relevant resources.
D = Do what you can. Take action regarding what you discovered with “S” and “U” to move toward your goal.
S = Stay in your lane, Charlene says. Focus on your task and mind your own business. This includes saying “No” to things beyond your control. (“S” for staying in my lane comes from my experience of swimming laps in the pool.)
I hope you find this valuable. See what happens when you apply S.U.D.S.
When I do, I feel grounded and hopeful. How about you?
Thanks for reading!
Your writer on the wing,
Charlene
