Is writer’s block real?  I can’t say, but I do know that this modern world has way too many distractions.  With the internet, hundreds of channels on TV, Netflix, Hulu, X-box, Playstation, and a meetup group around every corner it’s a wonder that anyone creates anything new.  With modern information overload, it takes willpower to sit down and write, or compose a song, or do anything creative when you have so many options at your fingertips.

Many people get caught up in the internet.  I don’t know how many writers I’ve spoken to over the years that have said they get lost on the internet for hours instead of writing.  The number is staggering.  There are even several disorders attributed to the overuse of the internet:  Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD) and Problematic Internet Use (PIU) to name a couple.  I don’t think I suffer from either of these, I think my disorder should be called Easily Distracted by Entertainment Options (EDEO).

Those who suffer from EDEO typically have at least one game console, too many television channels, at least one streaming video source, and more electronic boxes and remotes in their home than they have pets or family members. 

So how do you know if you suffer from EDEO?

• Do you freeze up in indecision trying to figure out which entertainment option to choose on a given hour, day, or evening?
• Do you keep lists of movies, games, books, songs, etc. you want to try that you could never complete in a lifetime?
• Does your smartphone do things your mother would be shocked to find out?
• Do you sometimes forget to bathe, eat, or look outside on the weekends?

I’m sure others can come up with many more symptoms, but the bottom line is we all have a few EDEO symptoms.  As writers we must find ways to fight this story-crippling disorder.  Recently I’ve decided to use a tried and true method of fighting EDEO and get the story written – Butt in Chair (BIC).  I’ve set an hour-a-day writing goal:  A minimum of one hour every day for working on my current story.  This does not include blogging, researching, editing, or any other writer functions besides actually writing that first draft.  It doesn’t sound like much, but you gotta start somewhere.    

By the way, even if you are trying to cut back on the internet as part of your own cure for EDEO, it’s okay to read my blog.