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As an author, you're juggling more balls than a circus performer. Writing, editing, marketing, social media—it can feel like there aren't enough hours in the day. But here's the thing: there's no one-size-fits-all solution to time management. What works for a night owl novelist might not suit an early-bird essayist. This guide aims to offer a buffet of strategies—take what resonates, leave what doesn't, and most importantly, adapt these ideas to fit your unique writing life.
Prioritize Your Writing Time
At the heart of your author journey is the act of writing itself. Here's how to make it a non-negotiable part of your day:
• Set a realistic daily goal: This could be time-based (2 hours of writing) or output-based (500 words). Start small and build up.
• Experiment with timing: Are you more creative at dawn or does your muse visit at midnight? Track your productivity at different times to find your sweet spot.
• Create a writing ritual: This could be as simple as brewing a special tea or lighting a candle. Rituals signal to your brain that it's time to write.
Try the free version of RescueTime to track how you're actually spending your computer time. You might be surprised!
Embrace Strategic Planning (Without Over-Planning)
A good plan is like a roadmap, but remember—detours can lead to unexpected treasures.
• Use a planner that suits you: Whether it's a bullet journal, a digital app like Trello, or a simple notebook, find a system you'll actually use.
• Try time-blocking: Dedicate chunks of time to similar tasks. But be flexible—if the words are flowing, don't stop just because your "writing block" is over.
• Set milestones, not just deadlines: Celebrate finishing a chapter, not just the whole book.
The Passion Planner is our pick for both digital and physical planners! They have a great selection of free downloadable planners and calendars.
Navigate the Social Media Maze
Social media can be a powerful tool or a massive time-sink. Here's how to use it wisely:
• Choose your platforms strategically: Where does your audience hang out? Focus your energy there.
• Batch your content: Set aside time to create multiple posts at once, then schedule them out.
• Engage authentically: It's better to have meaningful interactions on one platform than a shallow presence on many.
Later.com offers a free plan that lets you schedule posts for Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter)!
Delegate and Automate (Without Losing Your Voice)
You're an author, not a superhero. It's okay to get help.
• Consider a virtual assistant: Sites like Upwork or Fiverr can connect you with affordable help for tasks like research or email management (or send us an email at info@thebookprose.com for our pricing and services 😉)
• Explore automation: IFTTT (If This Then That) can automate simple tasks like sharing your blog posts to social media.
• Join forces with other authors: Consider forming a collective where you can share resources and support each other.
Tame the Email Beast
Don't let your inbox dictate your day.
• Try email batching: Check and respond to emails at set times, rather than constantly throughout the day.
• Use templates: Create canned responses for common inquiries to save time.
• Unsubscribe mindfully: Each newsletter you sign up for should earn its place in your inbox. Unsubscribe from websites and creators that don't align with your interests or goals!
Unroll.me can help you bulk unsubscribe from emails you no longer want.
Nurture Your Creative Well
Burnout is the enemy of creativity. Here's how to keep your well full:
• Schedule inspiration time: Whether it's reading, walking in nature, or visiting a museum, make time for activities that fill your creative tank.
• Protect your sleep: Experiment to find your optimal sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible.
• Learn to say no: Every "yes" to something that doesn't align with your goals is a "no" to your writing.
Harness the Power of Community
Writing doesn't have to be solitary all the time.
• Join or start a writing sprint group: Sites like MyWriteClub offer free, timed writing sprints with other authors.
• Attend writing retreats: If a full retreat isn't feasible, consider a local one-day workshop or even a self-imposed retreat at home.
• Find your accountability partners: Regular check-ins with fellow authors can keep you on track.
Reflect and Refine
Your time management strategy should evolve as you do.
• Keep a time log for a week: Track how you actually spend your time. You might be surprised.
• Regularly reassess your goals: What worked when you were writing your first draft might not work during editing.
• Be kind to yourself: Some days, the words won't flow or life will get in the way. That's okay.
Remember: These are suggestions, not commandments. The key is to experiment and find what works for you. Maybe you thrive on strict schedules, or perhaps you do your best work in spontaneous bursts. There's no "right" way to manage your time as an author—only the way that helps you write your best work while maintaining your well-being.
Conclusion
Time management for authors isn't about squeezing productivity out of every second. It's about creating a sustainable writing practice that allows your creativity to flourish while also tending to the business side of your career. Be patient with yourself as you try different approaches. Keep what works, discard what doesn't, and don't be afraid to pivot when something stops serving you.
Your writing journey is uniquely yours. Embrace the process of discovering your own rhythms and routines. And remember, even on days when it feels like you're juggling chainsaws, you're doing important work. Your words matter. Now, take a deep breath, pick one strategy to try this week, and keep writing. Your readers are waiting!
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