Get Writing!
Everyone struggles with increasing their productivity, but writers tend to struggle more than most. For one thing, writers either work full-time and have to fit writing into their “spare” time, or they write full-time, most likely from home, where the daily distractions are hard to overcome. How do you get more “butt-in-chair” time? And how do you make the most efficient use of that time?
Identify the things that distract and derail you.
For some this may be a dirty kitchen or a mountain of laundry. For others noise is a deal breaker. For still others the telephone is the biggest problem. Once you’ve identified these distractions, you can make moves to minimize them. Use an answering machine, close the door, and schedule a specific time to tackle the laundry. Learn to delegate and to say no, and do not feel guilty for devoting some time to your craft. Or pack up the laptop and head to the library.
For many people e-mail and Internet surfing can eat up valuable writing time. There are legitimate “writing” reasons to use the Internet, but, if possible, do research and writing-related e-mailing in a separate block of time. Give yourself specific times to check for incoming mail or catch up on your favorite blogs. Stick to a time limit. (The same goes for your favorite TV programs.)
Find your optimum time.
Some people write best in the wee hours of the morning, before the kids get up and the demands of the world begin. The muse hits others in the evening. If you find yourself nodding off at three in the afternoon, this is probably not your optimum writing time. Schedule your most productive hours on a calendar, and make this time your own. If you are only able to grab bits and pieces of time here and there, make the most of those episodes—give yourself one task to tackle, and do not deviate from it. If you are hit with inspiration throughout the day, night, or anytime in between, carry a notebook so you don’t lose those ideas.
Get organized.
It’s hard to be productive when you can’t find a new ink cartridge or lay hands on your favorite thesaurus. Gather your materials before you begin, and clear a space. Sometimes organizing your physical surroundings can help your thoughts organize themselves.
Consolidate your errands and set aside a specific time just for shopping, returning library books, and/or picking up the dry cleaning. If you are in charge of family meals, make a weekly menu and do your grocery shopping all at once. Those little jaunts add up and really cut into writing time.
Set goals. Take advantage of calendars and day planners. There are several electronic organizational tools for those with a techie bent, and most e-mail programs have a schedule function. Other people may prefer a legal pad and a desk calendar. Whatever helps you see the big picture.
The to-do list.
It works well to keep two lists. One list is the master list, and it contains big-picture tasks, like “Write book proposal” or “Find an agent.” The second list breaks down tasks into manageable chunks, like “Outline book proposal” or “Get latest copy of Writer’s Market.” You can keep a running list or create a new one each day. Sometimes filling out your to-do list for the next day keeps those nagging thoughts from disturbing your sleep, and you can wake up fresh, with your day outlined.
Be realistic about your list, or you may find yourself frustrated.
And, finally, make time to write every day. If you’re burned out, write just a few sentences or set a timer and write for five minutes. This will often lead to more enjoyable minutes spent honing your craft. And watching your writing improve is an added bonus.
- Writer\\\’s Relief
Tags: Butt, Chair Time, Muse, Productive Hours, Tv Programs
