How to find time to write when life is Busy
Struggling to find time to write in your busy life? These 8 practical tips will help you carve out time for writing, stay motivated, and make steady progress—even with a packed schedule. From setting small goals to using technology for organization, these strategies will help you make writing a regular habit.
WRITING & EDITING
How to Find Time to Write When Life is Busy: 8 Practical Tips for Writers
As a writer, you may often feel like there’s just never enough time to write. Between work, family, personal commitments, and life’s never-ending to-do lists, carving out time to focus on your manuscript can seem like an impossible task. However, with the right approach, it’s possible to make writing a regular part of your routine, even in the busiest of lives.
Finding time to write doesn’t always mean hours of uninterrupted quiet time (although that would be nice!). Instead, it’s about making the most of the time you do have and creating habits that allow you to write consistently, even in short bursts. Here are eight practical, real-world tips to help you find the time to write, no matter how busy your life may be.
1. Set Small, Achievable Goals to Stay Motivated
Trying to write 1,000 words a day can feel like an overwhelming goal, especially when you’re juggling a packed schedule. Instead of aiming for big, intimidating milestones, start with smaller, more achievable goals. Focus on writing just 300-500 words a day, or committing to 15 minutes of writing, depending on what your schedule allows.
This approach takes the pressure off and helps prevent burnout. Plus, setting small goals and meeting them will give you a sense of accomplishment that keeps you motivated to keep writing. Over time, those small increments will add up to something bigger.
A helpful strategy is to use a daily word count tracker or a simple timer app to make your writing time feel more like a productive session, rather than an open-ended task.
2. Make Writing a Non-Negotiable Appointment
In the hustle of everyday life, writing often gets pushed aside for more immediate tasks. But if you treat your writing time like any other important appointment, you’re more likely to stick to it.
Pick a time each day that works for you—whether it’s in the morning before everyone wakes up, during your lunch break, or in the evening after the kids have gone to bed—and schedule it in your calendar. Treat this time as non-negotiable. Just as you would show up for a meeting, you should show up for your writing session.
It can be helpful to set a reminder or alarm for this time, making it easier to prioritize writing amidst other responsibilities. Even if you can only dedicate 30 minutes a day, consistency is key.
3. Maximize Short Writing Sessions
Not every writing session has to be long. In fact, you can often get a lot done in 10-15 minutes if you’re focused and prepared. Think about your daily routine—maybe you have a few moments while waiting for a meeting, on your commute (if you're not driving), or during a break at work. These small pockets of time can be used to brainstorm, jot down a quick scene, or even draft dialogue.
You don’t need to wait for a perfect writing block to make progress. By using short, focused sessions, you can keep the momentum going without feeling overwhelmed. Even a brief writing session can be highly productive, especially if you come prepared with a quick outline or writing prompt.
4. Eliminate Distractions to Make the Most of Your Time
When you finally have a block of writing time, the last thing you want is to get distracted by phone notifications, social media, or other tasks. It’s important to create an environment where you can focus for the time you’ve set aside.
If possible, turn off your phone or set it to “Do Not Disturb” mode, close any unnecessary tabs on your computer, and let those around you know you need a little time to focus. You might also want to create a designated writing space—a quiet corner, a cozy nook, or even a favorite coffee shop where you can retreat to focus.
By eliminating distractions, you can make your writing time more productive, allowing you to make the most of the time you have available.
5. Use Writing Prompts or an Outline to Stay Focused
When you sit down to write, sometimes it can be hard to get started, especially if you don’t have a clear idea of what you’re going to write. To avoid wasting valuable time, come prepared with a writing prompt, outline, or a general idea of what you want to accomplish in your writing session.
If you’re stuck on what to write, try using a writing prompt generator to get your creative juices flowing. Having a clear direction will help you hit the ground running, and you won’t waste time figuring out where to start. Whether it’s brainstorming plot ideas, writing a scene, or revising a previous section, knowing exactly what you need to do can make a big difference in productivity.
6. Combine Writing with Other Tasks
Sometimes, you might not have a dedicated chunk of time to write, but that doesn’t mean you can’t squeeze writing in while doing other tasks. For example, you can listen to writing-related podcasts or audiobooks while running errands, exercising, or cooking. You can also mentally brainstorm plot points or character arcs during walks or when commuting.
If you’ve got an idea that needs to be written down but don’t have your computer, use your phone or a notepad to jot down your thoughts. Writing doesn’t always need to happen at a desk. The more you incorporate writing into your daily routine, the more likely you are to make steady progress.
7. Set Boundaries with Others to Protect Your Writing Time
When you have a busy life, it’s important to communicate to those around you that your writing time is sacred. Let your family, friends, or housemates know when you’re dedicating time to writing, and kindly ask for that time to be respected. It’s easy for others to unknowingly interrupt you, but setting boundaries will allow you to focus on your work without feeling guilty.
If you have a partner or family members who can help out during your writing time, don’t hesitate to ask for support. For example, if you’re a parent, ask for a block of uninterrupted time when someone else can take care of the kids. Having that support system will give you the mental space to focus on writing.
8. Use Technology to Stay Organized
Life can get chaotic, and it’s easy to lose track of your writing time if you’re juggling multiple responsibilities. Luckily, technology can help you stay organized and on track with your writing goals.
Use task management apps like Koratech WriterPro’s Notes and To Do to keep track of your writing projects and deadlines. Set daily writing goals, and check them off as you go. Use calendar apps or reminder apps to schedule your writing time and ensure you don’t miss your writing sessions. Being organized can help you stay on top of your writing, even on the busiest days.
Conclusion: Make Writing a Part of Your Routine
Finding time to write in a busy life requires consistency, planning, and a little creativity. It’s not about writing for hours at a time but about making writing a habit that fits into your day-to-day routine. By setting small goals, carving out time in your schedule, and using short bursts of focused writing, you’ll be able to keep writing consistently—even when life gets hectic.
Remember, the most important part is showing up. Whether it’s five minutes or fifty, every moment you dedicate to writing is a step closer to your goal. With patience and persistence, you’ll find the time to write, no matter how busy life gets.
