Merging Scenes, Writing Etched In Stone, Self-Delusion

I have had a lot of trouble forcing myself to merge a couple of scenes. Both deal with one event (though I can use some for the next scene between these characters), and I knew how to merge them, but I just wouldn't sit down to do it.

Part of that was the thought that I'd already done it and lost the file, but when I searched my computer and actually got into the piece, that wasn't so.

Then I thought it was because I liked both scenes as they were and didn't want to change the writing to merge them.

A writer who wants to be published is not worth anything if s/he can't be edited. Critique buddies, beta readers, editors can help make the book better. If you consider your words etched in stone, write for yourself because if you can't take editorial advice, you won't go far in the business.

Now I believe I was afraid to merge because I thought I'd need to cut and I don't want to do that because I want to pretend I'm further along in the book than I am. I'm also having second guesses about this book, for whatever reason -- maybe because both the characters are fairly new to me. I worry that it will be chapter 4 before they meet, though they sense each other.

All around, self-delusion time. Sometimes that's allowed, like in other jobs, but like other creative jobs, if you go to the heart of your problem it might make you better.

Thanks for listening, and may your day go well.
Robin