How to Find Time to Write Your Short Story or Novel

For many people they believe that they can tell a good story but just don’t have the time to write. Whether it’s a short story or a novel, there is always time if you’re willing to find it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• A true desire to write
• Computer and word processing program
• Paper and pen or pencil

1. Begin by believing that if you really want to write that next Great American Novel, you can. And you can find the time if you look for it.
2. Purchase a notebook, either a legal pad or spiral notebook, and a supply of pens or pencils. Carry the notebook and a pen everywhere you go. Write while waiting in traffic, eating lunch or on your breaks at work.
3. Give up an hour or two of television every night. Once you begin using your own imagination instead of relying on fed information, you will find the words flow from you and you can get a lot accomplished in very little time.
4. Get up an hour or two before the rest of your family. Many writers find they do their best thinking in the still of the morning.
5. Stay up an hour or two later at night. Some writers find their creativity comes alive while the house is asleep.

Tips & Warnings

• Develop a routine for writing. Find what works best for you and stick to it.
• Ask your family to respect your writing time. Everyone deserves time for themselves and their own interests.
• Keep a spare notebook and pen in the bathroom. Write while relaxing in the tub or other time you’re in the room for more than a few minutes.
• Authors juggling family, work and other obligations have written many novels and short stories.
• Be aware that not all families are supportive of the desire to write.