Making Time To Write

Understanding Your Productive Periods

Identifying when you are most creative is crucial. A study by Mareike Wieth and Rose Zacks suggests that people are often more creative when they are not at their peak times of alertness. For instance, if you're a morning person, your creative peak might surprisingly be in the late afternoon. Experiment with different times to pinpoint when you can write most effectively.

Tips for Discovering Your Best Writing Times:

• Track your productivity: Keep a journal of your writing times and output.
• Experiment: Try writing at different times of the day.
• Reflect: Consider how easy or hard it was to write during these times.

Prioritizing Writing Time

Making writing a priority is essential. According to a survey by the Authors Guild, many authors struggle to find time to write due to other job commitments. Here are some strategies to protect your writing time:

Strategies to Guard Your Writing Time:

• Communicate: Ensure friends and family respect your writing schedule.
• Set boundaries: Make it clear that your writing time is important and interruptions should be emergencies only.
• Create a routine: Regular writing times can help make writing a habit.

Optimal Writing Environments

The space where you write can significantly impact your productivity. A study from the University of Minnesota found that environments can influence creativity. Some writers need complete silence while others thrive in a bustling café.

Finding Your Ideal Writing Space:

• Home office: Quiet, personalized, and distraction-free.
• Public spaces: Libraries or coffee shops can provide a change of pace and scenery.
• Portable setups: For those who write in multiple locations, a mobile setup can be crucial.

Utilizing Spare Moments

Carrying your work with you allows you to utilize unexpected free time. Editing a page while waiting for an appointment or outlining a chapter during a commute can significantly increase your productivity.

Tips for Writing on the Go:

• Be prepared: Always have access to your work, whether in digital form or a physical copy.
• Use technology: Apps on smartphones or tablets can help you write or take notes wherever you are.

Designing an Effective Workspace

Your workspace should be conducive to writing. Whether it’s a corner of a dining room or a dedicated office, the setup should help you focus and be productive.

Elements of a Productive Writing Area:

• Comfort: A comfortable chair and desk.
• Tools: Ready access to necessary supplies like notebooks, pens, or a computer.
• Inspiration: Items that inspire you, such as books, artwork, or quotes.

Treating Writing as a Professional Commitment

If writing is more than a hobby, treat it with the seriousness of a professional engagement. Setting deadlines, organizing tasks, and marketing your work are all part of professional writing.

Managing Writing as a Job:

• Set goals: Have clear, achievable objectives.
• Keep a schedule: Regular updates and deadlines.
• Market yourself: Engage with readers and promote your work through appropriate channels like social media or professional websites.

By understanding your most productive times, setting priorities, choosing the right environment, making use of all available time, and treating writing seriously, you can enhance both your output and enjoyment of writing.