Time Management: What Is That, Again?

When I decided to make a proper go of being a writer I had no idea how it would take over my life.  Last June, I was flying by the seat of my pants: Writing only when I felt in the mood, a bit of research here and there, finding out what I needed to do to become a writer.  I was shocked by what I found and overwhelmed by the thought of trying to fit everything in, including a part-time job and running a household with two kids. I thought I had got to grips with things but last week was tough. For the first time I missed posting a scheduled blog because I hadn’t had time to write it. 

I was struggling for something to post this week too, so I thought I would share some of my frustrations about being a writer and having to fit it in around real life.

Until NaNoWriMo last year, my writing was ad-hoc at best. I didn’t really accomplish anything until I sat down and scheduled time to write each day.  I looked into various articles with the general theme, “What it takes to be a writer”, only to discover that writing is a tiny part of being a writer today.  There’s also social media, marketing, and, my all time favourite (sarcasm alert), blogging.  That’s not even an extensive list, research and working on improving my writing craft are essential. I almost forgot, there’s also critiquing, and reading, which was my main hobby, until I became a writer.

I had no idea how I was going to fit all this in so I started by looking at how to manage my time better.  I once went on a time management course and was advised to identify blocks in the day that were being wasted, i.e. when I was sat about doing nothing with my time.  For me, that was usually when I enjoyed reading and let me tell you, I used to read a lot.  So, I blocked those off and reserved them for my writing work.  This was usually on an evening.

It did not take long for me to start to feel the effects and strain of having every minute of my day crammed with, what I prioritised as, essential tasks.  The stress was getting to me. I knew I had to make some changes, or it would not be long before I threw in the towel.

So, what came next? First, I needed to set aside some down time. I couldn’t carrying on with the schedule I had made for myself, seven days a week.  I decided that weekends were going to be writing free times. Some writers do work seven days a week and may not feel the need for some time out, but I do.  I was burning the candle at both ends and my kids were suffering along with me.  The words tired and grumpy do not suffice.

Next week I’ll try to make sure I keep up with my posts and tell you how I hoped to manage my time better and keep my sanity intact. If you have any stories you want to share about the difficulties of time management as a writer, please leave a comment below. I’m more than happy to receive any tips you may have for being a sane and productive writer.

I know some writers also have full-time jobs and I hold my hands up to them. I honestly have no idea how they manage it.