3 Tips for Finishing Writing Projects in Time to Enjoy the Holidays

by Larry J. Leech II @LarryJLeechII

“It’s the most wonderful …”

Sing along if you know the words.

We’re finally past Halloween, and just finished Thanksgiving. So, the focus now is on … Christmas! The trimming of the tree. The carols. Oh, the beautiful, so beautiful carols. The gift-wrapping. How can I forget the eggnog? That wonderful, delicious eggnog.

And let’s not forget those year-end deadlines for editing, writing, coaching, anything writing related.

In a deadline-driven industry, seems like we always have a deadline to meet. Some might say the torture never stops. The deadline could be dictated by a coach, an editor, a publisher, or self-imposed. If mandated by the first three, work hard to ensure that you make that deadline. Unfortunately, most people miss their deadlines. For years, many of us taught that 99 percent of writers don’t make their deadline. I’m not sure if that number is still true. Sadly, though, missing deadlines is more common than making them.

If you are new to the industry or struggle with time management, here are a couple of tips to juggle the massive demands of this month.

Juggle Your Time and Finish Your Writing Projects with These Three Tips

• 1. Track your time. Years ago when I worked in the corporate world, we were required to break our working day into 15-minute intervals for a two-week span. We filled in each slot in real time instead of waiting until the end of the day. This helped us find where we wasted time. For the holiday season, consider filling in your 15-minute intervals the night before with what needs done, including any writing-related obligations. 

• 2. Be realistic about what you can accomplish. Shopping, wrapping, attending parties, visiting with friends, and baking all can fill up a day in a hurry. I know this may sound preachy, but pace yourself so you don’t run out of energy. 

• 3. Finish early. Instead of making a self-imposed deadline December 31, make it December 15-18. I know from experience that worrying about finishing a project amidst time with family, shopping, and celebrating can suck the joy out of a person.

I hope these tips help you finish your project in a timely manner so you can enjoy the reason for the season!

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Editor-in-Chief at Bold Vision Books and writing coach of award-winning authors, Larry J. Leech II has spent more than forty years writing and editing. He started his career as a sportswriter in southwestern Pennsylvania where he covered prep, college, and pro sports, including the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. 

In 2004, after 2,300 published articles, Larry moved into the book publishing industry. Since that time, he has ghostwritten 30 books, edited more than 400 manuscripts, and coached hundreds of authors through the writing and publication process. You can find him online on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.