Scheduling only gets you so far
I write a lot – both a lot of words and a lot of different kinds of books. There are two keys for me: finishing what I start, and writing every day. But often a project will sweep in that I desperately want to take on. Then I cast caution aside, and write that shiny new idea while it’s hot. Eventually, I have to return to finishing what I start, but when I’m writing every day, there’s room for the occasional diversion.
When I’m disciplined enough to get my wordcount in every day, I have time to write ALL THE BOOKS. Eventually. Productivity unlocks all kinds of goodies.
This is also true:
“There are only so many resources to go around. And if you really want a rose bush to flourish, then it needs to be trimmed down not just once, but each year.” – What to Do When You Have Too Many Ideas and Not Enough Time
Haha, love your color-coded calendar. Very organized. I make lists.
Organization is key when you want to get things done! Thanks for sharing, Susan! (I need to get more organized!)
I haven't settled in to any kind of schedule yet. (Now I suddenly realize why other writer love when their kids go back to school …ha, ha.) I don't know if I'll be able to work on multiple projects at once, like you do. And I'm really worried about that "finishing what I start." I know it sounds silly coming from me after finishing 5 books in 4 years while still teaching full time, but now that I have ALL THE TIME to write, it feels like ALL THE BOOKS have dried up. What do you think? Stage fright, now that I've committed myself to this path?
Probably two things: first, writing full-time vs. part-time is akin to running a marathon vs. doing sprints. You've got to train differently for it, and it takes serious endurance. Writing for hours and hours (and hours) is no small feat. Give yourself time to spool up, and track what works for you and what doesn't (this feedback will help you find your own "tricks" that work for you).
Second, probably stage fright. 🙂 Which is RIDICULOUS because you're going to totally kill this full-time writer gig. I'm so happy for you!!!
Great post Susan. Love that you shared your calendar (and that I could zoom in and see how your scheduling process works!) Love it!
Thanks, Susan. You're an inspiration 🙂
Wow… I only wish I was half as organized as this!
What is your daily word count goal anyhow? Do you write every day or take off weekends, etc?