In the inspirational little book 212 Degrees, The Extra Degree, bestselling authors Sam Parker and Mac Anderson explain: “At 211 degrees, water is hot. At 212 degrees, it boils. And with boiling water, comes steam. And steam can power a locomotive.”
I love this simple metaphor because it reminds me of what’s possible, if I’m willing to consistently apply just one extra degree of effort beyond my normal routine.
It’s related to what Carl Holmes calls the “And-then-some-syndrome.” It’s all about doing what’s expected, and then some.
I’ll be honest. I don’t always want to do what’s expected (or at least what I expect of myself writing-wise), let alone “and-then-some.” Some days I’m lucky to put finger to keyboard. Funny thing is, I’ll go out of my way for my family and friends or my boss and coworkers, but I’ll feel guilty carving writing time for myself. I truly believe we need to put others first, but does that mean I have to put my dreams second–or 999th? Shucks. Course not.
This week I’m challenging myself to pour on the steam with my writing time–by one sensible, do-able degree–guilt-free. I’m going to write four pages–and then some–this weekend (and the next, etc.). What can you do to turn the knob one degree to the right to crank up some heat?
Not sure?
Let me entice you.
If you go to my contact page by Friday, April 19, and tell me how you’re going to turn up the heat on your writing life by one degree this week, you’ll be entered to win a FREE copy of “212 Degrees.” I’ll be delighted to send it to you with my compliments. It’s a quick read that could have a lasting impact on your attitude toward your writing pursuits.
Ready to get steamy?
Many of life’s failures are [people] who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. ~ Thomas Edison
Welcome to Frog on a Dime 
Hello, I’m visiting from a link on Jennifer’s site.
This concept is great — “One sensible, doable degree.”
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Well, hello, Barbara. Thank you for stopping by. Jennifer was very kind to share my link on her wonderful site. I’m glad my post encouraged you. It’s amazing how doing one more small thing can have big results over time. Write on! Vicky
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What a great post, Vicki! I’m in the exact same boat as you! To turn up the heat, I’m going to write one page each evening this week. It’s a habit I need to get in, but just haven’t.
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I am so delighted by your message, Jennifer! Just think how many more pages you’ll have by the end of the month simply by turning up the heat one degree. You should be very proud of yourself for taking this step. I know I’m proud of you! Vicky
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Thank you so much, Vicky! 🙂
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“Knock! Knock! SSS! SSS! Steam Heat!” Do you know that old song? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1YHL2E2sR4
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I do know that song! I remember when “Georgette” sang it in a talent contest on the Mary Tyler Moore show. Wow, am I old. Glad I haven’t run out of steam yet! Thanks for visiting, Ann.
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I’m nearing the end of the first draft of my MG novel. “212” might be just the thing to get me to the end. I just finished the Driveway chapter. I have one rather long chapter to go, and maybe another short one. If I don’t win 212, I just might go out and buy it myself! Thank you Lipstick Queen.
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I’m so proud of you! You’re nearing the finish line! Turn up the heat one degree. You can do it, Your Royal Shininess! Bravo! Can’t wait to read your novel.
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This post is exactly what I needed today! Thanks, Vicky! I love the idea about turning up the heat just a little bit more to get a more powerful result. You’ve got me nodding and saying, “Mmmhmmm!”
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Hi Kris, I’m glad this was a timely post for you! I think all of us need a little fire under us once in a while. It’s amazing how a smidgen of extra effort can add up over time. Your accomplishments are proof of that. Thanks for hopping by Frog on a Dime! Vicky
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Great post and just when I needed it! I have a deadline looming and I’ve been looking around at all that needs to be done. No! I will put a couple of hours into intense research for my article each day this week (never mind the weekend which is full of volleyball and my band concert). I will feel so much less stress if I accomplished my goals too. Thank you, Vicky!!
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Oh! That’s awesome, Danielle. Turn up the heat a bit and feel the joy of progress! Thanks for sharing. You have encouraged me. Write on, Vicky
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I’m going to go the extra degree by not cooking dinner twice this week to allow for more writing time :). Poor hubby and kidlets.
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I think that’s brilliant. Turn down the heat on the stove and crank up the steam on your writing! Good for you, Carrie.
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