How to find time to write when working a 9-5
Writing can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience, but there’s just one problem. How do you find time to write while working 9-5? Can you have a life on the weekends without spending hours indoors trying to make up for lost time not writing during the week?
Whether you’re a busy person or just have a lot of commitments, it’s easy for writing to fall at the bottom of your to-do list.
However, with some preparation, planning, and strategies, you can create time in your schedule to write and make progress on your writing goals.
In this post, you’ll explore some tips for finding time to write so you can make the most of creative energy and finally finish your writing goals.
Don’t freak out about what you’re going to write
Panicking doesn’t provide solutions. Take a deep breath and remember that you can always edit later. However, if you are struggling to figure out what happens next, change your approach.
What are you trying to tell readers?
Do you want readers to see a character in a new light?
Is there a deeper message you want readers to gain?
Is this where things get worse for the character?
By asking yourself questions, it allows you to create sentences that lead to a story beyond what you imagined.
Plan in advance
Planning in advance helps you evaluate what needs to get done for the week. Set a designated time each week to map out what has to get done.
Create flexibility when you write. Change up your schedule.
Do you worry that you’ll get stuck?
Instead of worrying about what will happen when it’s time for you to write, develop an outline.
Each week, outline what’s next in your story instead of planning out the entire story. By doing this, you’ll reduce burnout.
Never feel guilty for taking out time to do things you want to do.
Setup a Priority List
You are a priority.
The fact that you are wondering how to make time for writing means it has been on your priority list.
Write down what is important for you.
Remember, not every day is the same. Figure out what times work best first for you.
After all, writing is a process that allows growth.
Thus, you’ll discover that you are capable of overcoming any limits you set for yourself.
Get up early and write before you start your day
Working a 9-5 job can make you feel that you don’t have time to complete your writing goals. Try waking up early.
You are probably thinking:
I dread waking up early.
It’s bad enough I have to get up for work.
Is writing in the morning worth my time?
No more self-doubt.
No more criticizing yourself before taking action.
No more downplaying what you can achieve.
Each day is an opportunity.
Make time at the end of the day
Don’t have time to get up early? Write at the end of the day.
You could do one of the following:
- Write before bed: Allow your fingers to type away as the words flourish on the page.
- Voice typing: Open up a Google document and speak your words.
- Break up your hour: Use a timer to write for 15 to 20 minutes.
There are no rules to how you complete your writing goals.
Schedule it like an activity
Do you feel?
- Excited for your weekend plans.
- Relieved it is Friday.
- Can’t wait to get home.
Schedule it like any other activity and immerse yourself in the story.
Have fun.
Give yourself permission to follow through your writing goals, even if you’re busy
Don’t let other people’s priorities interfere with your writing time.
Set out time for you to write something. It doesn’t have to be a lot; it could simply be a page or two. But if you consistently take action, writing won’t feel like a chore.
Why?
Over time, you’ll realize that the small actions lead to healthy habits.
Eventually, writing daily will seem like a natural habit.
No time, always on the go
Are you constantly on the go? Rarely, have time for self-care?
Slow down.
Take a moment to appreciate you.
Grab a notebook and pen and reflect on where you are at in life.
Journaling can help you unleash your thoughts. Furthermore, it’s a relaxing way to kickstart your writing session for the day.
Did you forget your notebook at home?
No worries.
There are voice-to-text applications you can download on your phone. Speak out your words as you drive or take the subway to work.
Overview
Frankly, you make time for the things you want to do. So, the fact that you are searching for ways to set aside time to write is a powerful start.
Regardless of what method you choose to use while working a 9-5, as long as you take action, that’s all that matters.
Ask yourself the following:
What do you want to gain from writing weekly?
Do you want a life outside your 9-5 job?
Is there a specific message you want readers to know?
Eventually, that writing project you’ve been putting off can become complete.
When you know your why and take action consistently, you are able to achieve and excel at your writing goals.
Hello there, my name is Vikita. I’m an aspiring author. I’ve written my first fiction novel and want to share the tips, tricks, and some of the things I learned throughout my journey. And I figured this was the perfect way for you to get to know me.
