Please help me welcome Susan Harris Howell…
Four Lessons I Learned from My Desk
My new desk came to me in 483 pieces—slats, panels, and hardware wrapped in plastic bags for “easy delivery and assembly.” My daughter commented that the company might have just sent me a tree and an ice pick for the work it would require.
I sat on the floor surrounded by debris that looked nothing like a desk. I would have curled up on the floor to cry if I had had enough floor space to do so. This was an impossible task.
But I could no more repack that box than I could unring a bell. So, I picked up the forty-eight-page instruction booklet, turned to page one, and put the “twist-lock fasteners into outer ends A and C.”
That first step was the beginning of a three-day process which led to the beautiful desk I now adore. It also taught me a few things about another “impossible” task I would soon face – writing my first novel.
Here’s what I learned.
Lesson One: Just do today’s work.
As I thumbed through the encyclopedic-sized instruction manual, I knew I’d have to narrow my focus. So, I concentrated on step one without mentally moving on to steps two or three. This helped me begin and keep moving.
Likewise, when writing a book, we often work best by tackling one manageable task at a time without mentally wandering into steps two, three, or beyond. Narrowing our focus can move us forward.
Lesson Two: Be confident.
That first day, colleagues dropped by to offer condolences. I assumed they would know more than I and would have secrets to share on furniture assembly. Sadly, none of them did; there were no secrets.
Similarly, when we have a story to tell, we can’t assume someone else will tell it better. They have their own stories to write, their own desks to assemble. My story is my story; your story is yours. Be confident in the telling.
Lesson Three: Use available resources.
When my husband offered our power drill, I declined since the instructions said power tools weren’t necessary. On day two, I grabbed that power drill and didn’t let go. Using the right tool made the task easier.
Likewise, when writing, we can avail ourselves of quality resources. Books, conferences, blogs and podcasts – a lot of information is out there. Find it and use it.
Lesson Four: Let others participate.
Throughout the desk-a-thon, I posted pictures and progress reports on social media. Friends across several states watched with interest and celebrated the finished product.
In the same way, writing is richer when others walk alongside us. Whether they read each draft, encourage our persistence, or subscribe to our newsletter, many will participate if we invite them. Don’t go it alone.
The take-away?
My desk now serves as a daily reminder of what I can accomplish when I focus on today’s work, remain confident, use available resources, and invite others to join me.
I hope these lessons encourage you in your next “impossible” endeavor.
Thank you for joining me, Susan. Great article…I love the analogy of assembling the desk and writing. And I love the helpful reminders. Now, please tell us about your book…
Was it coincidence that brought them together – or a ghost with a purpose?
Excerpt:
Samantha reached out to hold Chess’s shaking hand only to immediately regret it. The stickiness of dried blood would have made her recoil, but she refused to desert Chess, who squeezed her hand like a frightened child. So while Allie returned Chess’s skates and answered the questions of concerned friends, Samantha stayed put. She only hoped the pounding of her own heart would not attract attention and require an explanation.
After Chess’s wound was cleaned and bandaged, Allie stated that she would drive Chess to the ER. “I can’t ride in your new car. My clothes are all -” She grimaced at her blood-stained shirt.
“The blood’s dry. It’ll be fine. Besides, think how fast my car will get us there.” She directed Chess’s attention away from the injury.
Samantha pointed to Allie. “Keep it under the limit, missy.” Samantha disliked conceding the role of caregiver to someone else, but Allie had things under control. Besides, it couldn’t be helped.
Samantha quickly walked toward the women’s restroom, which, thankfully, was empty, went in, and locked the door. With deep, shaky breaths, and no longer fighting the tears, Samantha moved immediately to the sink where she scrubbed her hands vigorously, several times. She reached into her purse for her cell phone, scrolled quickly through her contacts, and tapped her thumb on the one she sought.
She took a deep breath when instructed to leave a message. “Debra, this is Samantha Hayes. Could you give me a call please? I need to talk to you.” She waited a moment, decided she had said all she needed to for now, then added, “Thanks,” before ending the call.
She continued to hold her cell, however, as she paced, all the while trying her best to take even, measured breaths. Think of something else. You’ve washed your hands. You’re safe. You’ll talk to Debra when she calls back. Breathe. She was surprised that her reaction was this intense. The sight of blood had not frightened her this much in a long time.
As she debated whether to stay or go home to await Debra’s call, her cell rang, making her jump. With another shaky breath and a sigh of relief, she answered. “Debra? Thanks for calling… Okay… actually, no I’m not okay. I hate to bother you, but something just happened.”
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About the Author:
Dr. Susan Harris Howell is a psychology professor who has taught and mentored students for over thirty years. Her novel, The Spirit of Vanderlaan, draws on that career to capture the warmth between a professor and the assortment of personalities which inhabit her office.
Her first book, Buried Talents, focuses on the subtle ways women are discouraged from entering male-dominated occupations.
Susan and her husband have two grown children, a daughter-in-law, one adorable grandson, and an incorrigible beagle named Doc.
Website: susanharrishowell.com
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susan_h_howell/
Email List & Monthly Blog: susanharrishowell.substack.com
Author Alicia Dean 