How to Develop a Writing Schedule

Without a plan your writing can drift.  I discovered how many thrive on procrastination.  Procrastination is a prominent excuse often used to complete a project, task, or writing assignment.  I'm sure you have heard it yourself, "I work better under pressure."  But, why?  Procrastination is an excuse to delay.  A great way to overcome procrastination, especially when it comes to writing is to develop a writing schedule.

7A little story before I begin.  Before I developed a writing schedule I was tossed to and fro by any and every distraction.  Writing, other than my daily journaling, was pushed aside.  I found it easier to procrastinate and writer's block was at an all time high!  It was frustrating, but I relied on the excuse of working "better under pressure," when in fact I was drowning in unfinished writing projects.  Ugh!  I knew "what" to do, but I was not actively engaging in my own instructions.  I knew this had to stop and so I began with the planning tool I shared with my writing students.

The planning tool I equipped my writing students with is an appointment sheet.  This sheet begins at 6 am and ends at 11 pm.  Each student is asked to review his or her week and determine a time to write.  This time is personal, whether in the morning, afternoon, or evening.  The only requirement is for the dedicated time to be consistent.  I am a firm believer in consistency, especially when it comes to spending quality time in the morning to listen to God.  I guard that time like a bulldog (smile).  Likewise, when you create a time to work on a writing project, guard it!  The consistent, small segments of time allocated to writing will help you finish strong.  Let's hear from you!  Do you have a writing schedule?  

Happy Writing,

DeborahT

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