by Lori Hatcher @LoriHatcher2
We’re almost a month into 2023. Do you have a plan to stay on track, submit your work on time, and organize your writing life? If not, here are five tips that have helped me.
5 Tips to Use the Calendar to Stay on Track with Your Writing
1. Use a Paper Calendar
I love technology (when it works), but, for me, a good, old-fashioned paper calendar serves me better than digital records and reminders. I love being able to see every submission that’s due each month and when it will run. While I may back up my paper calendar with electronic reminders, paper trumps technology every time.
2. Note three dates for every assignment.
Each January, I pencil in every writing commitment I have. For monthly commitments like this column submission, I note the date the piece is due and then go back a week. This date becomes my submission goal.
Why submit a week (or more) early? Editors love working with writers who submit before the deadline. We make their job easier, and they’re more likely to consider us for additional work, because they know we’ll deliver. An early submission date also gives me a time cushion in case something unexpected, like an illness or family emergency, comes along.
I also note the date the article will run. This reminds me to like and share the post on social media.
3. Write down every speaking opportunity.
You don’t have to have a formal speaking ministry to make these notes on your calendar. Did you speak at a Book Club meeting? Teach Sunday School? Share a message at your child’s school PTO meeting? Did someone invite you to bring a devotion at a ladies’ lunch or men’s breakfast? Write these speaking opportunities on your calendar.
You may think you’ll remember them if an editor or publisher asks you where you’ve spoken lately, but chances are, you’ll forget one or two. When my first book with Our Daily Bread Publishing went before the Pub Board, my editor asked me for a list of speaking engagements. The modest list I supplied proved I wasn’t afraid to speak in public and helped persuade my publisher to take a chance on me.
4. Note every major life event.
Write down family members’ birthdays, graduations, family vacations, your anniversary, and the annual weekend away with the girls. Will Mom have cataract surgery next month? If you’ll be driving her to her appointments, you’d better write it down. Do you keep your grandkids every Friday? Pencil that in, too.
Recording these non-negotiables helps you see what days you have available for writing. Because I work as a dental hygienist on Wednesdays and Thursdays and sponsor Fun Fridays at Gigi’s house each week, I do the bulk of my writing on Mondays and Tuesdays. I zealously guard these two days, knowing that if I misspend them, I’ll have to stay up late or get up early to compensate. Even more serious, I might miss a writing deadline.
5. Put a big red X on Sundays.
I do my best not to write or conduct any writing-related business on Sunday. I’m not legalistic about it, but I believe God ordained a day of rest (whichever day we observe it) for our benefit.
My decision not to write on Sundays frees me to rest and refresh. I spend my day doing those things that restore my mind, body, and soul. I attend church, practice hospitality, go for a walk or play Pickleball, catch up on my Bible reading, or read a book just for fun. Sometimes, wonder of wonders, I even take a nap.
Instead of limiting my productivity, I’ve found that taking a day to rest increases it. During my day of “rest,” my mind continues to think, gather information, and mull over my WIP. I return to my work eagerly instead of burned out.
If you’re struggling with organization, productivity, or deadlines, I encourage you to grab a paper calendar and start writing. If you already use a calendar, or some other means of organization, please leave a comment below and share your secrets.
May 2023 be your best writing year ever!
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Right on target, Lori, especially the part about getting our writing commitments in early.
ReplyDeleteSpoken like a true editor, Martin. That point was for you :)
DeleteI use the tech calendars but also my paper one. I go to the paper one first, where I can see the entire month laid out.
ReplyDeleteExactly! There's something about the landscape view that puts it all into perspective. Thanks, Ane :)
DeleteI love this, Lori! I mostly keep track of my due dates and family events in my head. Putting them on my calendar will create more space in my brain for creativity!
ReplyDeleteOh yes, Crystal, anything to free up that elusive grey matter for more creative things! Blessings to you :)
DeleteI love using a planner/calendar! This article is perfect for the new year. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteMay 2023 be your best one yet, friend. Write on!
DeleteTerrific ideas and just started my new calendar! Thanks for the advice!
ReplyDeleteWell done, Lisa. May God's hand of blessing rest upon your writing life :)
DeleteGreat advice, Lori. I use my phone calendar for all appointments, but I have a paper calendar for all writing deadlines, conference schedules, etc. My husband and I also keep Sabbath. Like you, I find the day of rest is inspiring and energizing. Have a great year!
ReplyDeleteI’ve never regretted resting, but I’ve often regretted not resting. Blessings to you!
DeleteI much prefer a paper calendar and have for years and years! And, it HAS to be a month-at-a-glance! I can't do the week-at-a-glance ones - my brain just doesn't work that way! Great tips, as always, my friend!!!
ReplyDeleteYep. The simpler the better for us both :)
DeleteI like a paper calendar, too, Lori. Thank you for these helpful suggestions.
ReplyDelete