I write for a financial newswire and am beset by daily deadlines and a strict style guide. The emphasis on production requires that my writing is first clear and cogent, and second, pleasurable and creative. I handle fiction writing in the same way. I have to produce first. Once I have an armeture, I can flesh it out with some creativity. As for reading, I don't often finish books unless I am in love with them. The book must constantly interest me and once it doesn't it, I put it away.