Writing can be a rewarding and fulfilling hobby or profession, but it’s challenging to find the time to write when you have a lot of responsibilities and very little free time. However, with a little planning and effort, it is possible to set and achieve writing goals even when you’re short on time.
1. Set Realistic Goals
The first step is to set realistic goals. If you’re new to writing, don’t expect to write a novel in a month. Start with smaller goals, such as writing a blog post or short story. As you get more comfortable writing, you can increase your goals. I do this by breaking down each step of my writing. My first goal is writing a general concept for the story, my next goal is filling in more of the outline or developing the characters, etc. These goals are more manageable than having the goal of writing a novel.
2. Create a Writing Schedule
Once you know what you want to write, it’s important to create a writing schedule. Set aside a specific time each day or week to write. Even if you can only write for 15 minutes, it’s important to be consistent. I schedule myself for writing time every week in the same way I would schedule an appointment. I block off the time on my calendar so that I can easily see when I look to see if I’m free to do something else. This keeps me from being distracted if I’m planning something with friends while still making sure I don’t forget.
3. Find a Writing Space
It’s also important to find a writing space where you feel comfortable and productive. This could be your home office, a local library, or even a coffee shop. Personally, I prefer to work somewhere where I’m least likely to be interrupted. After a few weeks, my family and friends learn that’s my writing time and schedule things around my writing time. The trick is to be consistent, so they get used to you not being available at a certain time or on certain days.
4. Eliminate Distractions
When you are writing, it’s important to eliminate distractions. Turn off your phone, close your email, and find a quiet place to write. There are several programs available that will close the distractions on your computer or turn off your notifications if you need that level of intervention to stay focused. Many have a trial period, so you can see what option works best for you.
5. Be Flexible
Of course, life happens, and there will be times when you can’t stick to your writing schedule. Don’t beat yourself up if you have to miss a day or two of writing. Just pick up where you left off as soon as you can. This is another reason I like to put writing on the calendar. If I have to “move” my writing time or day, then I can make a plan for where to move it o, the same way a lunch with a friend might get rescheduled if I have to suddenly pick up a sick kid from school.
6. Reward Yourself
When you reach a writing goal, it’s important to reward yourself. This will help you stay motivated and on track. Your reward could be anything from taking a break to read your favorite book to going out for dinner with friends. Don’t be afraid to stagger your rewards to match the significance of a goal. A small goal, like finishing a scene, will have a different significance than finishing a chapter, or the first draft. List out your goals and the rewards so you have a visual reminder of what your rewards are.
7. Don’t Give Up
Writing can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are millions of people who write for a living or as a hobby. If you’re passionate about writing, don’t give up on your dreams. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. There are groups on Facebook, Threads, Instagram, and even LinkedIn that are supportive of authors. Admittedly, you may need to try a few to see if they are fit for you and your writing, but they can provide support and a group of people who understand the challenges of writing.
As a wife, mother, and foster parent who works full time and also writes books, I can empathize with how hard it is to make time to find the time to write. Just remember, you can do this!