For many writers, one of the biggest challenges is not in finding ideas, but in finding time in which to write. In a busy world when most writers have day jobs in addition to their writing, it can be almost impossible to find enough time in the day to work on a novel or a story.
Fortunately, there are ways to modify and work within even the busiest schedule so that writers can do what they do best.
Waking Up and Staying Up to Write
The wee hours of the morning and the darkest parts of the night are some of the best times for writers to work, especially if they have children. Getting up early can give writers an extra hour or two in the morning, while writing after dark can add more time to that schedule.
Writing when family members are asleep and before going to work in the morning can be very productive.
Some writers prefer to work at one extreme end of the day and maximize their writing time. A writer who gets up early in the morning can go to sleep earlier in the evening in order to rest and prepare for the following day.
Choose a time during the early morning or evening in which there will be one or more uninterrupted hours for writing. Being creative the first thing in the morning can be an inspiration for many people. Have a cup of coffee on hand and a notebook ready for whatever time of day is chosen for writing.
How to Write During the Day
Although most writers have busy lives with jobs, families and other interests, there are times during the day in which writing can be done. Always have a notebook on hand for spare moments that can be used for productive writing.
Times that can be used for writing include:
- Commuting to and from work on public transportation
- Waiting a child’s sport practice or after school activity
- In between meetings
- During lunch breaks
Keeping a notebook and a pen or pencil on hand at all times is the best way to take advantage of these few free moments during the day. A significant amount of writing can be accomplished by taking advantage of small breaks.
Schedule Writing Time
Writers who are truly serious about developing their novel or story should endeavor to schedule at least one hour of productive writing time during the day. This can be a time for writing exercises like brainstorming, reviewing a rough draft or simply sitting down and writing.
Setting aside a full hour each day, or even just once a week, can give writers time to organize their thoughts and write productively. Arrange to have a babysitter, turn off cell phones and the internet connection and work solely on writing during scheduled writing time. This is a time for a writer to be as productive as he can be, and reducing distractions can be very important.
Moments of Inspiration for Writing
Another benefit of having notebooks on hand is for those moments of inspiration when an idea appears seemingly from the blue. A common time for this to occur is at night, which makes a notebook especially important. Quick notes can be jotted down at any time during the day and used later, during scheduled writing time.
Additionally, doing writing exercises like free association and brainstorming can help increase the frequency of ideas that occur for writers. Keep a notebook on hand as often as possible so that ideas can be jotted down as soon as they appear.
Writers no longer have the ability to turn away from everyday life for long stretches in order to create their works. Finding the time to write often involves sacrifice and frustration, but writers who are dedicated to their craft will be more willing to seek out small times during the day in which to write.
These moments can become some of the best writing times a writer can have.
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This is so "right on" @quitepoetic. Being "dedicated to their craft" truly is the key. Years ago I taught a session for budding writers entitled, "In Search of the 25th Hour." Isn't that so true? We think it's hidden in there somewhere. But alas it is not. It's up to us! Thanks for sharing.