On Wednesdays, We Write Novels
Timing and tools for when you have multiple projects
Writing time is precious. Whether you’re a side-hustler or a full-timer, managing multiple projects can be difficult. In my case, I teach full-time and am trying to lay a foundation to go full-time as a writer someday.
Finding time to write and appropriating time to specific tasks is a discipline I’m still developing. By trial and error, I am finding strategies to help me be more productive.
I write here on Substack but also want to pitch other print and online publications. Plus, I’m nearly 30,000 words deep into a historical fiction manuscript, which has taken me almost 2 years so far. It’s time to get it finished.
Understanding the rhythms of my life and making decisions about how to use time well are hard for me. Sorting it out requires pause and intentional recalibration.
I have to stop writing to think about writing, which seems counterproductive. But it’s not at all. In fact, it’s my secret to getting more done.
Putting first things first
Just as I wouldn’t embark on a road trip without a map or GPS, I know I shouldn’t write blindly without some sense of purpose and plan. I always have several kinds of writing going at once, so organizing is important.
Journaling, Substack posts, personal essays, poetry — all of it matters and plays a role in my creative life. Juggling it well means documenting things well. I’ve gotten better with this in recent months.
The first move I made? Getting an editorial calendar established.