From Edie: Struggling to find time to write when life gets busy? Discover three practical tips to help writers stay focused, write consistently, and keep moving forward despite distractions and daily demands.
How to Keep Writing When Life Gets Busy: 3 Practical Tips for Writers
By Lilka Raphael @Lilka_Raphael
“A writer who waits for ideal conditions under which to work will die without putting a word on paper.” E. B. White
To birth anything of substance requires work. And birthing anything extraordinary requires even more. The hours spent writing and rewriting are countless. Then there are edits that never end. Pursuing agents and publishers can take on a life of its own. However, one of the biggest hurdles writers face is finding time to write. In my own life, it seems that just when I’m making great headway, obstacles arise and pull me off course.
I’ve heard as much from fellow writers at conferences. Illness, work demands, and family obligations all seem to increase exponentially when working on deadlines. Each new level of progress brings with it a devil of distraction. Yet like Peter walking on the water, writers must strive to achieve the miraculous amid life’s storms. And sometimes getting an opportunity to write requires a miracle.
Three Tips to Manage Frustration and Keep Writing
Stay Focused
Delay is not denial. Yes, circumstances will arise that must be managed. And they will come at the worse possible times. Preparing for an important meeting or rushing to meet a publishing deadline often finds urgent situations in full pursuit. However, when we keep our objectives at the forefront, it’s much easier to meet them. Sometimes all it takes is a Post-it note to remind us to write daily. Fifteen minutes can turn into pages. I’ve drafted entire articles using the notes function on my phone when dedicated writing time was elusive. Keeping a visual reminder of writing goals will keep them alive.
Stay Consistent
Whether five words or one sentence, it is crucial to write something. Ten minutes in a day can sometimes yield an hour’s worth of work. There were times when my writing consisted of jotting down notes and ideas for future use. When writing isn’t an option, read about writing. Stay current on publishing trends. Blogs like this one can fuel motivation. When possible, fan that writing flame daily.
Stay Connected
Other writers often provide tips and tricks for success. I’ve learned that maximizing even small segments of time leads to impressive results (thank you Lynnette Eason). I’ve also learned that I’m not alone in my struggle to write consistently, so I don’t feel like a failure when life presents roadblocks. The writing community offers valuable solutions and perspective for pushing through trials.
The calling to write isn’t always comfortable. Physical and mental fatigue from working two jobs or concurrently fulfilling other responsibilities is harsh. Still, the reward for pushing through is worth it. When the pain is most intense, something good is on the way.
For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. Hebrews 6:10 NKJV
TWEETABLE
Lilka’s greatest achievements are her two adult sons who have flown the nest. Happily married for thirty-two years, she lives east of Atlanta with her husband, Rod. They now share their home with two German Shepherds—Holly and Ivy—and one naughty kitty, Moxie.
No comments:
Post a Comment