Creating a Writing Schedule

In order to get any amount of writing done it is important to schedule it into our lives instead of carrying on all willy-nilly. Every year I vow to be more organized. And I think it’s true for everyone when I say that the hardest part of being organized is staying organized. I find simplicity works best for me when creating a writing schedule.

Instead of a day planner I use a binder with a weekly calendar sheet I created. Each day is divided into two columns House and Work (writing). I schedule activities under each item and scratch them off when completed. I like to do it this way so I can balance out the areas between each day.

If you want to schedule some writing into your life now is the time to start. Take some time this week and sit down with a few sheets of paper and a pen. Make a list of all your recurring non-writing assignments like work, choirs, family time, cooking, shopping etc. On a blank piece of paper write out the days of the week at the top and divide them with lines. Under each day schedule the items from your list.

Now make a list of the recurring writing goals you would like to work on each week and then schedule them into your weekly work sheet. You might have to move things around to make your days balance out but it is workable. Create a new sheet for every week of the month and as appointments or other significant distractions come up schedule them in.

Organizing your writing schedule needs has a revolving door on it. Our situations change constantly so it stands to reason that our method of organization needs to adjust as well. The beginning of the year is a good time for experimenting. Hopefully by June you will have found a writing schedule that fits your personality and available time.

Happy New Year!