Identifying your peak productivity hours can be a game-changer. For some, it’s that peaceful morning quiet, for others, late-night inspiration. Track your energy levels and see when your creativity hits its stride to make the most of those golden hours.
My best time of day for writing is usually after the sun goes down! That is almost always when I write. I can write at other times of the day, or course, but I seem most fluent at night.
Creating a daily writing schedule helps turn writing from a task into a habit. Pencil in specific times for writing each day, just like you would for a meeting or a workout. Treat it as non-negotiable, and soon it’ll be second nature.
I set up my writing tasks—actually, I have ChatGPT set them up. I give “Buddy” all of the information I have for writing that needs to be down and he comes up with the schedule.
Because I really never know when it will work for me to write, I don’t have set times for the writing, just the tasks that have to be done each day. I use a very simple prompt which I talked about in my last post. Here it is if you think this is something you might want to use:
Here is the prompt I use: (Type this right into ChatGPt or other AI program)
“I need to update my blog post and writing schedule. I do not need set times. What I need is what articles I need to write each day. So here is what I want:
Every other day I want to write a post for two of my sites: makelifeprofitable.com, karinnauber.com, diabeteshealthnuts.com and hoofbeatsu.com.
So to be clear, each day should list two sites to write blog posts for. If you can, I would also like suggestions of blog post contents.
Secondly, every day I need to write a minimum of a 600 word Vella episode for one of my Vella stories. Here are those stories: The Little Black Dog; Worthy; Zombies Among Us; and Unbidden.”
This is an example of what the last four days of August looked like (Note that zombies Among Us was added later):
ChatGPT/Buddy: Here’s the updated schedule from August 28, 2024, through September 30, 2024, including your selected Vella stories:
August 2024
Wednesday, August 28:
yoursite1.com: “The Art of Storytelling: Tips from Famous Authors”
yoursite2.com: “Understanding the Glycemic Index and Its Importance for Diabetics”
Vella Story: Worthy
Thursday, August 29:
yoursite3.com: “How to Stay Motivated as a Writer”
yoursite4.com: “Training Techniques for Older Horses”
Vella Story: The Little Black Dog
Friday, August 30:
yoursite1.com: “SEO Tips for Boosting Your Blog’s Visibility”
yoursite2.com: “The Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet for Diabetics”
Vella Story: Unbidden
Saturday, August 31:
yoursite3.com: “Developing a Unique Writing Voice”
yoursite4.com: “Essential Horse Training Tools Every Owner Should Have”
Vella Story: Worthy
For some of you, time-blocking techniques are a lifesaver. Break your day into chunks dedicated to different tasks—writing, editing, research, and even breaks. This method helps keep distractions at bay and your to-do list manageable.
Common time-wasters can derail even the most dedicated writers. Social media, endless research, and unimportant emails can eat up valuable time. Identify your usual suspects and set boundaries, like using website blockers or setting a timer for breaks.
Balancing writing with other responsibilities is a juggling act. Whether it’s a full-time job, family, or other commitments, making time for writing takes planning. Use shared calendars with family or set clear boundaries with work to carve out writing time.
Creating an Optimal Writing Environment
Setting up a distraction-free workspace sets the stage for productivity. Find a spot away from the hustle and bustle, shut the door, and let the people around you know that this is your writing sanctuary, no interruptions allowed.
Choosing the right tools and software can make your writing process smoother. From word processors like Scrivener or Google Docs to note-taking apps like Evernote, having the right digital tools can save you time and keep you organized.
Incorporating ergonomics into your workspace isn’t just about comfort—it directly impacts your focus and stamina. An adjustable chair, a desk at the right height, and proper lighting can prevent physical discomfort, letting your mind stay on your writing.
Background music or white noise can work wonders for concentration. Some writers prefer classical music or ambient sounds, while others find apps like Noisli helpful. Experiment to see what enhances your focus without becoming a distraction.
Personalizing your space can boost your creativity. Decorate with items that inspire you—a favorite mug, inspiring quotes, or plants. When your environment reflects your personality, it can make the act of writing much more enjoyable.
Developing Effective Writing Habits
Setting realistic writing goals is the foundation of productive writing. Break down big projects into manageable chunks and set achievable deadlines. Celebrate the small wins—they add up to big progress.
Establishing a daily writing routine keeps momentum going. Decide a time and place that’s exclusively for writing, and stick to it. Consistency turns the struggle into a habit, and habits lead to productivity.
Practicing writing prompts and exercises can break the monotony and spark new ideas. Whether it’s a character sketch, a dialogue snippet, or a random thought exercise, these short writing bursts can keep the creativity flowing.
Seeking feedback and continuous learning help you grow as a writer. Join a writers’ group, participate in workshops, or find a critique partner. Constructive criticism improves your craft and keeps you motivated.
Maintaining motivation and avoiding burnout is crucial. Writing should be fulfilling, not a chore. Take breaks when needed, reward yourself for your progress, and remind yourself why you love to write.