How do you stop from eating while writing?

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   Billie Kelpinposted 10 years ago

   How do you stop from eating while writing?
   
   So I just went to the refrigerator for the 3rd time this morning.  I guess I think that's where the inspiration is kept!  Help, how do you stop this insanity

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   CroftRoanposted 10 years ago

   I still haven't found the answer to that myself but I try pulling snacks out in small quantities or I write during an actual meal. Also do your writing sessions away from the fridge. I used to write all the time in my bedroom and, while I kept small things to nibble on, I felt to lazy or into the story to actually go downstairs and get something to eat.

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      Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      good strategy.  I count going to the refrig as exercise!  No?  I like the snack idea at the desk.  Wriing during an actual meal - you're a GREAT multi-tasker.

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3. 61

   MickSposted 10 years ago

   It's procrastination, whilst you're eating, you ain't writing, your doing it to yourself.  Stop that, and get more writing done.

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      Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      I also post and answer questions Mick.  Ok, one more and I'll stop!

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      MickSposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Ah, posting and answering questions is all writing, it maybe not what you wan't, but it's still good practice.

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   lburmasterposted 10 years ago

   By using the food as motivation. Cannot eat until finished writing a certain number of pages.

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      Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      very excellent!  I'm hungry.  I better write!

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   duffsmomposted 10 years ago

   I am a total obsessive eater, but oddly enough I get so amped up when I am writing that I don't eat and write at the same time.  Weird - I just realized if I write more, I would eat less - thanks!!

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      Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      I need to change in that direction!  Thanks duffsmom

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   M. T. Dremerposted 10 years ago

   A lot of eating is based on association. For example, if you eat in front of the tv, you will always get hungry in front of the tv. Try moving your writing to a room that you haven't associated with snacks and try writing there. If you can do it a few times without getting up for food, then you will have created a snack-free work space. Or, if that doesn't work. Just get a giant cup of water and sip it slowly over the course of your writing. It will give your hands something to do with none of the calories. (Though you will have to pee a lot.)

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      Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      MT.  There IS no room like that (tee hee).  I'd have to write in the bathroom! So you think I should more the two bowls 2 cans of diet Coke, my "Lucky, the Left-Pawed Puppy" mug, and the fork and spoon on my desk right now?

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   Kevina Oyatedorposted 10 years ago

   You don't lol. I still eat while I am writting. Sometimes It makes me think of more ideas for stories.

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      Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Kevina,  now that's my style

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   maggs224posted 10 years ago

   I have so much clutter on my computer desk that it is hard to even fit my cup of tea on it, so I find this works for me, keep your desk full of clutter and you will have no room for food to snack on.

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      Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT!

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   Grab a Controllerposted 10 years ago

   I usually give myself a topic to write about that I know I would have to concentrate on: like a breakdown of a game I have not played for a long time, lists, or spotlights. I am currently doing a list of cliches found in video games, and I have been researching and writing so much, that I don't get the urge to eat at all!

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      Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      I think that's what author Csikszentmihalyi refers to as "Flow" - Excellent - can't quite get there myself.  Cliches in video games sounds FASCINATING.  If you have time, leave an example here. (it will be a teaser

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    baygirl33posted 10 years ago

    I don't. I love to eat while I'm doing anything.
    But maybe it's procrastination or boredom,just plain restlessness.
    I solve the problem by keeping only healthy snacks handy,and just indulge!

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    1. 86

       Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       Baygirl, You've got it on the "procrastination"  Mick S said that too. Actually   Can we call it "waiting for inspiration"? AND restlessness  (never thought of that (while trying to think of the right words.)  I'll try healthy snacks.  Thanks a bunch

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    Abby Campbellposted 10 years ago

    LOL. I don't eat in front of the computer anymore. I actually step away and enjoy my meals/snacks. Though it may be in front of the television, it's probably better to give my eyes and brain a break.

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       Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       Cute!  So maybe I should think of my computer like my forever-thin friend, Leslie.  I NEVER eat what I REALLY want to eat in front of her.  I think I'll call my computer Leslie.  You just paved a new path for me to follow.  (Maybe tomorrow!)

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    Lady_Eposted 10 years ago

    Keep a thought in your mind that you will reward yourself with something nice after you have finished what you are writing.
    
    Whenever you see visions of that sugared doughnut, or chocolate cake or whatever it is that whispers your name from the refrigerator, immediately have in mind you will have it in just about half an hour or an hours time and look forward to it. Then continue with your writing.
    
    It takes discipline - but it works.

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       Billie Kelpinposted 10 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Lady_E.  I like the reward for later.  We forget to do that.  I think it can be very motivating.  My eating while writing is when I can't get a thought, it's like I'm looking for inspiration somewhere in the kitchen!  I should look in my head!

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