Sneak in Some Writing Time
I'm always looking for ways to sneak in exercise into my day (and vegetables into our meals). Then, I had the same thought about writing time. Life is busy, and some times, I don't have enough hours in the day.
Here are some ideas to add some extra writing time...
Take Notes! Are you writing this down?
1. If you are old school, keep a small notebook in your purse, car, or bag. Describe scenes and people that you encounter in your travels. If you have a SmartPhone or tablet, download an application to organize your notes. Spend time in line or waiting jotting down ideas. My commute takes me from the suburbs through an urban area. I keep brief notes on the people and places for use later.
Book it!
2. Schedule daily writing time. Use this to write, edit, and proofread. Don't get sucked into internet distractions. When you're done with your manuscript, block time for querying and marketing your work.
At the Prompt, Write!
3. Find books, websites, or applications that provide daily writing prompts. Spend a few minutes writing every day. I find if I do this every morning, I'm more awake, aware, and creative for the rest of my day. (There are several on Twitter.)
Work up a Brainstorm!
4. Spend a few minutes brainstorming titles, themes, and characters. I use word mapping on pen and paper or whiteboard when I'm looking for ideas. Nothing is off limits. Put that whiteboard in the kitchen to good use. If you really want to have fun. Put a large piece of paper out and use colored markers or crayons.
Who are You?
5. Create back stories and backgrounds for your characters. Sometimes, I use a Word file for this, and other times, I use index cards. I collect everything about each character. I have mini-biographies that I can refer to as I write. It's way too much information for your writing, but it helps you to get to know your characters. Plus, it helps me maintain consistency throughout the manuscript.
Lunch Date!
6. Take your writing materials to meals like lunch. You can write while you're eating, especially if you usually eat by yourself.
Do Your Homework!
7. If you have kids, write while they do projects or homework. You're all together (working on different things).
Reallocate for Writing!
8. Cut out two hours of TV or internet surfing a week and devote it to your writing. You'll be surprised how it adds up.
Keep writing and best wishes for your projects!
Here are some ideas to add some extra writing time...
Take Notes! Are you writing this down?
1. If you are old school, keep a small notebook in your purse, car, or bag. Describe scenes and people that you encounter in your travels. If you have a SmartPhone or tablet, download an application to organize your notes. Spend time in line or waiting jotting down ideas. My commute takes me from the suburbs through an urban area. I keep brief notes on the people and places for use later.
Book it!
2. Schedule daily writing time. Use this to write, edit, and proofread. Don't get sucked into internet distractions. When you're done with your manuscript, block time for querying and marketing your work.
At the Prompt, Write!
3. Find books, websites, or applications that provide daily writing prompts. Spend a few minutes writing every day. I find if I do this every morning, I'm more awake, aware, and creative for the rest of my day. (There are several on Twitter.)
Work up a Brainstorm!
4. Spend a few minutes brainstorming titles, themes, and characters. I use word mapping on pen and paper or whiteboard when I'm looking for ideas. Nothing is off limits. Put that whiteboard in the kitchen to good use. If you really want to have fun. Put a large piece of paper out and use colored markers or crayons.
Who are You?
5. Create back stories and backgrounds for your characters. Sometimes, I use a Word file for this, and other times, I use index cards. I collect everything about each character. I have mini-biographies that I can refer to as I write. It's way too much information for your writing, but it helps you to get to know your characters. Plus, it helps me maintain consistency throughout the manuscript.
Lunch Date!
6. Take your writing materials to meals like lunch. You can write while you're eating, especially if you usually eat by yourself.
Do Your Homework!
7. If you have kids, write while they do projects or homework. You're all together (working on different things).
Reallocate for Writing!
8. Cut out two hours of TV or internet surfing a week and devote it to your writing. You'll be surprised how it adds up.
Keep writing and best wishes for your projects!
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