You CAN Find the Time to Write!

Sometimes, it feels as though the world is conspiring against you. Though you desperately want to write, "life" keeps getting in the way. During those times, you may feel like throwing in the proverbial towel on your creative writing aspirations. But before making such a rash decision, consider some of the following innovative ways to help you uncover a few moments during which you can put your thoughts onto paper or computer screen.

Have Paper, Will Write

If you carry a notepad with you everywhere you go, you'll always be able to capture an idea here or there. And if you find yourself with five minutes of "free time" while waiting for the train or stuck in a traffic jam, you can use that period to scribble away. By maximizing your snippets of down time, you may discover with glee that you wind up with many more opportunities to capture your imaginings than you originally assumed you had. (Just make sure you always have a writing implement on you to avoid frustration!)

Set the Alarm Ten Minutes Earlier

Before you hit the "snooze" button, consider this: If you wake up just ten minutes earlier than everyone else in your household, you'll have 600 luxurious seconds of writing all to yourself! Over a period of weeks, that could amount to a knock-their-socks-off short story, award-winning poem, or hilarious screenplay. And you don't even have to get out of bed; just reach over, turn on the light (or use a flashlight so as not to disturb your mate), grab your paper and pen, and jot down those innovative thoughts.

Make Writing a Family Affair

Craving some time to write but having trouble getting the "troops" to leave you alone for even a second? Why not institute a daily "writing and reading" time that will benefit the whole family? Carve out a 20-30 minute period where everyone can engage in a brain-stimulating (but quiet) activity such as writing, reading, or simply relaxing. That way, you'll all have the opportunity to unwind and enjoy a few moments of self-directed creativity.

Write on the Go

Are you an excellent multi-tasker? Then you might find it possible to write in small snippets throughout the day. For example, while making breakfast or dinner, you could occasionally write or type a few sentences or concepts between buttering toast and brewing coffee. Though not all authors have the kind of personality to find this piecemeal writing style effective or satisfying, for others, it might be the only way to make time for their creative muses.

Schedule Writing Time

If you keep a calendar, try scheduling in your writing time. Make a regular date with your writing desk (and don't stand yourself up!) to ensure that you get the writing time you desire (or need, if you're planning to become a professional.) Be inflexible and even a tad selfish - this appointment should be important to you and must be treated with respect; accordingly, don't allow yourself to continuously cancel or reschedule it. By making your creative writing a priority in your busy agenda, you'll find that you look forward to the moments when you can freely work on your imaginative musings.

Depending upon your situation, you may have to occasionally tweak when and where you do your writing. However, if you're diligent about staying the course and deliberately making time for this form of creative outlet, you'll begin to see the results. Over a period of months, your prose will become tighter, your concepts stronger, and your confidence higher.

Now, stop reading this article and start writing…