How to Manage Writing Time?
HOW TO MANAGE WRITING TIME is one of the very best questions a writer can be asked. And so I was thrilled to discuss that topic recently for the online journal, Compose. This skill is right up there with writing dialogue, having a voice and learning to edit, and yet few interviewers ask about it.
I love talking about time management. And many of you know that I live on a grid. Didn’t know that? Oh, let count the ways in which the grid saves my life. Or better yet, read the interview with me and Debra Eve. It will help you live as a writer.
In this issue I am joined by the two writers who you’ve read here in the Writing Lessons series, great Katrina Kenison, who wrote here about telling the truth when writing memoir, and the ever-marvelous Beth Kephart, whose topic for the series was also about handling the truth, which is also the title of her recent book. It’s wonderful to be in such company.
Compose: A Journal of Simply Good Writing is a biannual, digital publication dedicated to featuring work by both established and emerging writers of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Want to write for them? See their submissions guidelines.
Terrific insights. It’s refreshing to read practical encouragement for writers who have other jobs and responsibilities. My favorite line is this: “If you give your subconscious the smallest indication that you’re taking seriously this art thing, this writing thing, it’ll show up for you.” Thanks!
You are very welcome, Sarah. I meant every word. Hope your writing goes well.
ACK I sooooo needed a grid suggestion right about now! I’ve been forgetting to schedule myself in for the past 2 years now…. :-D
I would always schedule you in, my friend, so why not do it for yourself? You deserve it, you fine writer.
You are too kind, dear Marion! Also — anyone reading THIS who has not read THAT (the grid-centric interview mentioned above, here: http://composejournal.com/articles/qa-marion-roach-smith/) should go do so post-haste. Beyond words of wisdom, it’s “feet to the fire.”
Marion,
One of my favorite things about you is your lack of WooWoo, especially in terms of writing. If I want the mystical stuff, I’ll go somewhere else, but from you I want and get the practical. Your suggestion to put index cards on a bulletin board for each chapter of my working memoir has been a tremendous help. I physically move the cards around and it provides a much needed mental shift, as well.
Love the grid concept mentioned in your Compose article and am honored to be penciled in every month or so.
Judith
Thank you, Judith. My lack of WooWoo is something I’m damn proud of, and it’s mighty nice to have it appreciated.
So glad the index cards and the grid are admired. They beat WooWoo every time.
It’s a joy to work with you.
Please come back soon.
Fondly,
Marion