Let’s start with a simple truth: writing is a priority. If you want to make it a part of your daily routine, you need to treat it like one. And the good news is, you don’t need hours and hours to get some words down.
Here are some tips to help you carve out that precious writing time:
Get up early or stay up late. If you’re not a morning person, this may not be the best option for you, but if you’re able to wake up even just 15 minutes earlier, you’ll have some quiet, uninterrupted time to write. If you’re a night owl, try staying up just a little bit later to get some writing done.
Schedule your writing time. If you’re someone who thrives on structure, try scheduling your writing time into your day like you would a meeting or a doctor’s appointment. Make it non-negotiable.
Use your lunch break. If you have a job that requires you to be in an office, try using your lunch break to write. Even just 20 minutes can make a huge difference.
Write in small increments. You don’t have to write for hours on end. Just write for 5 or 10 minutes at a time. Those little bursts of creativity can add up and help you stay motivated.
Make it a family affair. If you have a partner or children, try involving them in your writing journey. Explain to them how important writing is to you and ask for their support. You may be surprised at how willing they are to help.
Get creative with your writing space. If you’re having trouble finding a quiet spot to write, try writing outside, in a coffee shop, or even in your car. Sometimes a change of scenery can help get your creative juices flowing.
Focus on results. One thing that worked for me when I started was concentrating on words written, not minutes used. I would set a minimum daily count of just 250 words. Most days, I wrote more than that, but 250 was the low bar I set for myself in case my day went completely crazy.
In conclusion, finding time to write is all about making it a priority and getting creative with your schedule. Remember, every little bit counts, so don’t be afraid to start small. Happy writing!
Jeremiah Kleckner 