How to Make Time for Writing
Writers are no different from anybody else. Most have children, friends, family, commitments and a full or part-time job. Sometimes it's difficult to write each and every day when there are so many other pressing engagements to attend, such as social events, school meetings, staff meetings and the like. Writers who are serious about their craft need to make time for writing and treat that time as any other engagement. Make a date with your computer every day, and remember "butt in chair." These steps will help you to become a more successful scribe.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Get up an hour earlier every day and write when the house is quiet. Enjoy a refreshing beverage in a relaxed and stress-free writing session you are guaranteed to enjoy and want to repeat.
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2
Use your lunch break to write. Half an hour may not seem a long time, however when added up over the course of a week is three-and-a-half hours.
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3
Stay up an extra hour or so after everyone has gone to bed. The house will be quiet and still and the phone isn't likely to ring after bedtime hours. This will allow your train of thought to flow--uninterrupted.
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4
Carry a notebook around with you as you are going about daily living. Jot down ideas for stories or articles that pop into your head. Write down character outlines and plot sequences in the notepad before they are forever lost in the jumble of things to do in your head.
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5
Write longhand while visiting the park with the kids. Words may flow better with sunshine and fresh air as influencing elements. Stephen King wrote many books out longhand, and other writers swear that sitting at a computer stifles creativity. Try this method and see if it makes any difference to your work.
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6
Practice free writing, where you just write or type anything that comes to mind (or doesn’t). This exercise doesn’t have to make any sense at all, just get your hand writing and hopefully encourage your creativity to come out and present itself.
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Tips & Warnings
Place a notebook on your nightstand to jot down vivid dreams and sudden moments of lucidity in the night.
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Comments
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circusmama
Apr 07, 2009
I've found my best time is early in the morning, as long as I have a plan before I start! Though I do like to write during naptime as well. -
eliptica
Feb 21, 2009
Thanks for the excellent article I will try and use some of your methodology.
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Terria Fleming
Jan 09, 2009
Fantastic suggestions for finding writing time in a busy schedule. I like to write real early in the morning and late at night myself, but your suggestion about writing in the car while waiting for the kids is a great one too.
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prism
Nov 15, 2008
Great ideas! The only quiet time I usually get is late at night but I've been looking for a good excuse to visit the local bagel shop more often. Thanks!
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prism
Nov 15, 2008
Great ideas! The only quiet time I usually get is late at night but I've been looking for a good excuse to visit the local bagel shop more often. Thanks!
