Writers are justly famous for our ability to procrastinate.
But–do you want to hear a secret? Okay, come a little closer so I can whisper–the truth is we’re actually no better at it than anyone else. We just document it better. Because writing is what we do.
And we’ve been at it for a long time. How long? Well, Excuse for Not Writing Number 1 is “Sharpening my charred stick.”
Technology has made some changes. In many parts of the world, Number 2,745 (“Washing the dishes”) has been largely replaced by Number 68,117 and 68,118 (“Loading the dishwasher” and “Emptying the dishwasher”).
At this point, many writers do it more because it’s a tradition than because they feel any deep personal need to procrastinate.
There’s something of a thrill in extending a tradition.
I speak from experience. I’ve just been notified that I’ve had an excuse added to the list.
Official Excuse for Not Writing Number 237,630 is “Rufus demanded a tummy rub.”
I’m proud, honored, and humbled to have made such a significant contribution to my field.
Koi Scribblings 
Damn it! I don’t have a Rufus…..I have been blaming carpel tunnel. I’m old fashioned and like pen and paper.
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Well, of course you don’t have a Rufus! He’s a unique–but you really ought to have a Rufus-equivalent. Did you know studies have shown that patting a cat for eight hours a day greatly reduces the impact of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Ah, carpal tunnel. Been on the list of excuses since the nineties, and still very popular. My second drafts are done on paper (so I know the pain of which you speak), but I can’t imagine doing multiple drafts that way.
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