Finding a Writing Plan That Works for You

Have you dreamed of being an author but the reality of writing in real life makes you second-guess your ability to be an author? The coffee is made, there is peace in the house, and your favorite, comfy writing space is calling your name … until life happens. Maybe it’s a sick kid, or maybe you’re sick. Or you’re trying to balance working, writing and caring for your people, and writing often gets put on the back burner.

To quote a famous poet, “The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” But that does not mean we should not still plan. Hoping to find time to write is not a plan. Consistent writing will require … cue dramatic music … discipline. Establishing a regular rhythm and discipline in writing are the backbone of successful writing. 

Find the right time. 
Are you an early riser? Or a night owl? Your natural tendencies and rhythms might inform when your best window of time will be for your writing. When I wrote my first self-published book, I wrote it on a self-imposed schedule of rising early every day for 31 days straight. I dedicated two hours daily (minimum) to planning and writing while others were sleeping. I’ll be honest. It was hard to be that disciplined. But when we show up consistently, the habits we form become easier and enable the writing process.

Find the right space.
Is there a space where you feel more inspired? For some reason, when I have a looming deadline, lying on the couch with my laptop when no one is around in the wee hours really helps me focus on the writing. Other people might do better at a desk. Do what works for you, but pay attention to where you were when your writing went well.

Find the right topic.
Writing on a schedule is more tedious when we are not passionate about the topic. What moves your soul? What do you care about? Don’t write about what you think is popular at the moment. Cultivate what God has called you to and delve deep into that topic.

Find the right tribe.
Sure, you can write in isolation, but having other friends seeking to accomplish the same thing can encourage you to press on. Here at COMPEL Pro, we root one another on in our callings. You do not have to go it alone.

Find grace.
You will not be perfect, and your writing schedule will need to flex with life’s many turns. Give yourself grace, and tweak the schedule as you need to make your writing plan work best in real life. Ultimately, images of sitting in a comfy chair overlooking the ocean and sipping a café latte while we write might not be realistic … I hate to burst any bubbles! 

The reality of deadlines and life situations can temporarily eclipse your writing dreams or make them challenging. God’s grace is enough for your call. Finding a writing plan that works for you is not a one-time decision. Keep writing and tweak your plan to adjust to life’s many curves.

All for Jesus,
Denise Pass

What writing plan do you have? We’d love to hear from you!