Make Time, Don't Find Time

For people who want to write, whether it be for hobby or because you want to become a published writer, the one thing that seems to hold you back is probably what stops a lot of people from accomplishing their goals. Time.

When trying to find time, there are a number of different things that stop you. And while it is understandable that there are other things in one's life that requires attention, if you are truly passionate about writing and are determined to make it something that you do continuously, you need to make the time rather than find the time. Especially if you want to make a career out of it.

So, if this sounds like you and you could use some guidance to stop the cycle of feeling like you can never find the time, here is a list of suggested activities that will hopefully help you make the time to write.

1. Have a writing space - This is important because to have a space dedicated to just your writing helps to put you in the right mindset. And being in the right mindset helps the ideas flow better.

2. Have your writing time scheduled - Setting aside a certain hour or time of day for writing also helps with the mindset, creating the thought that if it's this certain time, then the only thing on your mind is your writing.

3. Create a routine for your writing - Having a routine of how you write is good practice because it then makes it easier for you to not get distracted knowing that you follow the same routine every time you sit down to write.

4. Make sure there are no distractions - This is probably one of the biggest problems that stops you from writing - especially if you like to do things such as social media. When sitting down to write, turn off your notifications on your phone. You will then be less tempted to look at your phone when you really should be writing. And if there are other things that are occupying your mind, remember that there is always time to do them later.

5. Have an outline - This is definitely a big help, because when there is an outline for your writing it gives it shape and structure. Having a plan of what you want your writing to look like helps so that the final outcome is exactly what you wanted and envisioned.

6. Eliminate excuses not to write - Making excuses is something that people do to avoid something that they either really need or want to do, and it creates a bad habit. If you stop making excuses and just sit down and write, you will feel a lot better about yourself and what you are creating.

7. Use a word counter and have a daily number goal - Having a daily number goal is a great motivator and gives you a reason to write daily. It is like having a to-do list, and of you reach that goal, then you have completed your task for the day with your writing.

8. Keep a notebook nearby to jot down notes - Taking notes about what you are writing is a great think to do. It helps to keep you on task and gives you the option to add to what you are writing about. And of there is an idea that you think of to write about in the future, it is right there on paper for you to go back to once you finish your current piece of writing.

9. When you make the time to write, reward yourself - Whenever you accomplish something, you feel good about it. And the same goes for your writing. Even if there are days that you do not reach your word count goal, you should still feel proud because you still took the time to sit down and write.

10. Have a plan for your next writing session - Making a plan each day at the end of your writing session for the next day gives more structure, and therefore you know ahead of time what you will be writing about. It also helps to eliminate the chance for writer's block (although it might still happen). And as you know, writer's block can be your worst enemy.

So, as you can see there are a number of things that can help you make the time to write, and hopefully some of this does help you. But if you are truly determined to become a writer, you have to put in the effort. This list gives perspective on things that can be done to make the process of writing easier, and hopefully gives you the motivation you have been looking for to finally sit down and write. Because at the end of the day you can either be your own worst enemy or your own best motivator when it comes to completing your writing.