If you are a journalist, then writing is a huge part of your job. Or perhaps you are a blogger who enjoys writing about a particular passion or area of interest. For some people, journaling is as routine as exercising.
No matter how it takes form, writing is a skill that you should continuously fine tune. But what are some things you can do to become a more productive writer?
Just like anything else in life, to be good and successful at writing, you will need to be focused and committed. One of the problems that often blocks the path to success with writing is procrastination.
How many times have you had a great idea, but never got around to putting it to paper? Or you have had the book you want to write in your head - but for years without even an outline or the first page completed?
The good news is that you are not alone, as writers share some common challenges and frustrations. If you are really interested in becoming a more productive writer, there are some things you can do.
Below are some tips for how to be a more productive writer.
1) Create a schedule and stick to it.
One of the most important things you can do is to create a schedule for writing. Just as you know when you are going to a yoga class or to a work meeting, you need to block off times that you will devote to your writing.
Do not let your moods dictate when you write, if possible. Instead write during your time that is dedicated to writing each day.
For many people, writing is easier first thing in the morning when their minds are clear and rested. Others are creatures of the night, and feel their creativity flows better then.
Based on your patterns and personality, set aside time several times a week devoted solely to writing. Then make a commitment to write during that time. It is a good exercise to make yourself write even when you do not feel like it. By doing this, you will strengthen your mental toughness and your commitment, both of which are important for productivity.
2) Create a work-flow process.
Work-flow charts are not just for complex processes; you can use them for your writing projects as well. To be more effective as a writer, you need to figure out what process works for you?
For example, let's say you have a goal to write one article per morning for your favorite online writing site such as Helium. You need to determine your process for meeting that objective.
Perhaps you brainstorm and determine the topics for each day at the beginning of the week. Or maybe you prefer to read the news for a few minutes to come up with an idea for a topic.
Once you determine your topic, what steps do you take to produce your final article? Do you create an outline and then work from that? How do you determine the length? How often do you conduct research to support your content? Is it a part of your process to put aside your first draft and then proof it an hour or so later? Do you seek feedback from anyone?
Put some time into figuring out a work-flow process that will be effective for you, and then follow it. Once you have a method that is a fit for your style and preferences, then use it with your articles! Remember that writing is a craft, and by instilling discipline around your craft, you are ensuring a better final product.
3) Occasionally take some breaks.
It may seem counter intuitive to take breaks as a tactic for being more productive as a writer. But, it actually is not.
When you push something too much or too hard, then it will become forced. The quality may suffer. You need to find some balance between pushing yourself to write regularly and during certain times, and taking some breaks from your laptop.
4) Set weekly goals.
Finally, it is important to set weekly goals for your writing. You may define your goals in various ways: hours devoted to writing, number of articles completed, amount of research conducted, etc.
Be realistic in setting your goals, and constantly make tweaks to your goals as time passes. What may be realistic during one phase of your writing career may be too easy at a later time.
Make sure your goals are challenging but achievable. Too many writers make unrealistic goals - such as completing a novel in a couple of months - and then throw in the towel when they cannot meet them.
Writing is often a passion, but it requires a great deal of work and commitment. Great things in writing are often achieved in baby steps, so be prepared to be patient yet steadfast.