Time Management for Writers: The Dos and Don'ts

by - February 05, 2024



Without time management, we don't get writing done. I think it's also important to note that no matter how well you're doing it, you're engaging in time management. You might be managing your time poorly, and you might be doing it without much thought, but you are still managing your time. This is the same principle you might apply to money: you might not be employing specific budgeting tools or exercises, but you're still using your money.

The best way to manage your time does exist. It's a very specific method of time management and it's called YOU DO WHAT WORKS BEST FOR YOU AND YOUR LIFESTYLE. 

This is really different from what I hear from most "productivity experts" and gurus, but the thing is: most of them are single, relatively wealthy men with 9-5 jobs and no health issues. I don't know many writers who fall into any of those categories, and those who do don't meet all of them for sure. A lot of tips are catered specifically to one demographic and have absolutely no flexibility for parents, married couples, people working more than one job, people whose houses are far away from their jobs, etc.

So to do time management well, we have to remember: It's about what works for YOU and your lifestyle, not what works for the gurus who make their livings off telling you what to do.

Tip #1: Don't try to shoehorn in things that you just don't want to do.

When you're making your schedule, don't be guilt-tripped into adding things you see others do. You don't like the gym? Don't add it. It's that simple. If moving your body doesn't mean the gym, don't go to the gym. That simple.

Tip #2: Do focus on the things you already do.

Back to the subject of exercise: maybe your preferred way to exercise is going for a walk. That's definitely mine, with weightlifting in a strong second. But maybe you used to do that after lunch and you haven't made time to do it since. Instead of trying to rearrange your schedule to work in that noontime walk, find a new time to do it. Walking matters to you. Could you go after dinner? Could you go later in the evening? Could you go early in the morning? Could you maybe just walk a couple times a week, to start with? 

Instead of focusing on unrealistic additions to your schedule, focus on scheduling IN the things you aready do or want to be more consistent in. What is your ideal day? Work towards that.

Tip #3: Don't neglect your writing.

You're a writer. That's a crucial part of your identity and your life. It's also an entire other job and that's a big deal. A lot of times, I think the problem with time management tips is that these gurus stick you with dozens of little things you didn't need or want to do. For instance: if you have a perfectly good system for meal prepping, DON'T CHANGE IT. (Go back to #1).

But your writing is not just another task. This is a HUGE deal that we can't just neglect. I've neglected my writing at so many different seasons in my life and I'm so tired of that. It's time to add it back in.


With those three big tips out of the way: How do we work in our writing? Unfortunately, I'm going to tell you to tune in next time to find that out ;) 

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2 comments

  1. R.F. GammonFebruary 7, 2024 at 11:39 AM

    EXACTLY!!!! My goodnesssssss

    ReplyDelete
  2. The Hopeful PenFebruary 7, 2024 at 11:53 AM

    Love this advice, lol!
    While I've definitely benefited from "productivity experts" over the years, I've also come to some similar conclusions.

    ReplyDelete

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