Whether you're a freelance writer or an author who wants to write and sell many books, you need to be a productive writer.
That way you can write more, sell more, and make more money.
So here are a few tips to help you get more writing done.
1. Repurpose everything you write.
Try to have at least 3 different ways you can use most of what you write. Blog post, podcast, e-book, e-course, special report, etc.
If you write novels, use excerpts for blog posts and press releases, for example, to make the most of your work.
If you write nonfiction, reslant magazine articles so you can use the same material for more than one publication.
2. Schedule regular writing time instead of just writing whenever you have some free time.
Most people who say they will write when they find the time never seem to get much writing done. Something else always gets in the way.
It's much better to set aside some writing time on your calendar and treat that time like you would a regular business appointment. You'll be much more likely to get some writing done on a regular basis.
3. Know what you need to write BEFORE you sit down to write.
That way, you can get started immediately instead of staring at a blank page.
You’ll also be able to quickly create some momentum.
Think of planning time as different from your actual writing time and schedule time to plan first, then schedule time to write.
4. Block out your time so you allow a specific amount of time for each writing session.
It might take several sessions to complete each writing project, but you'll be less likely to waste your writing time when you know you've only got a certain amount of time for each session.
5. Avoid getting overwhelmed with too many tasks or writing projects to complete at the same time.
This zaps your energy and actually makes you less productive.
Prioritize your tasks and keep just a few tasks on your to-do list each day.
6. Relax and be willing to write awful stuff at first.
You usually need to write the awful stuff in order to get to the good stuff.
Most people only want to write good stuff.
But, ironically, they usually write nothing or very little as a result.
Schedule some time just to write crummy first drafts.
7. Design your writing days according to the way YOU work best.
Some people can switch between different writing projects throughout the day.
Other writers work best if they can spend all day or at least all morning or all afternoon on a single project.
Experiment to see how you work best.
If you start following these tips, my guess is you'll discover even more ways to increase your productivity as a writer.
Try it!
Visit my blog at www.writebythesea.com for more articles, tips, and resources for writers. Get your free subscription to The Morning Nudge and gain free access to my private resource library for writers.
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1 comment:
Suzanne, this is a great list of steps to being productive with writing. I love #1. I've written a 170+ book by repurposing content I've written over the years.
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