Finding time to write can be a problem for writers who are juggling work, family and other commitments. Follow these tips to harvest extra minutes out of your busy schedule.
Avoid Distractions – Focus on Writing Your Novel
Ideally, set aside a time to write. During this period try the following tricks to create an uninterrupted space:
- Put phone on answer and switch off mobile phones.
- Switch off FaceBook and other social networking sites.
- Switch off email
- Diarize the time period, and view this time as a meeting in which you can’t be disturbed.
Many writers find it best to write early in the morning or late at night when distractions are normally less.
Being Organized Helps You Find Time to Write
Being organized can buy precious minutes. Some writers create time by organizing the space around the writing desk. Try these tips for organizing your work environment:
- Organize the email Inbox into folders. This way emails are already sorted into categories when it’s time to read them. It makes keeping track of important information much easier.
- Buy a home filing system, keep it near your desk and file all papers in it. Reducing clutter makes for fewer distractions.
- Open a file in the home filing system for articles, resources and pictures you can use in your writing so they’re all in one place.
Save Time by Being Focused
- Watching too much TV? TV eats up writing time. Limit watching to one program a day, and harvest the saved time to get that novel down on paper.
- Addicted to the News? Most people don’t need to watch news on TV and read a newspaper. Cutting down on one can buy half an hour of time – enough to write 300 words.
- Spending time catching up on social networking sites like FaceBook? Use it as a reward, when the 1000 word target is in the bag.
Use the Right Tools to Make Writing Easier
- Novel writing software can be very helpful in focusing your ideas into chapters
- An online writing class with deadlines is another way to make sure you get the writing done.
- A writing buddy can be motivate you when inspiration is running short.
Make Writing a Part of your Life
- Think about your book while you do household chores, walk the dog or drive to work.
- Carry a notebook and pen in your bag, and use odd moments waiting for appointments or people to write your book. At the end of the day they can be captured on your PC and lightly edited in the process.
- Use your emotions – don’t waste anger on shouting at the man from the phone company. Use that energy to write.
Most people can find enough time to write a few hundred words a day, if they think cleverly and cut some non essential activities. 300 words every day will lead to a hundred thousand word novel by the end of a year.
For more tips on finding time to write, read Become a Disciplined Writer, and learn how being disciplined can aid creativity.
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