If you're a born procrastinator it's easy to convince yourself that you have no time to write. You'll write when the baby gets older, when you can quit your second job, when you can get a job with a shorter commute...
Everyone has time; you have more time than you think
Everyone has the same amount of time. If you want to write, you'll find the time to write. If time is really short: as when you're working two jobs for example, this may mean giving up things like sleep. :-)
I've found it useful to divide my writing time into prospecting, drafting and writing periods, because each takes a different amount of concentration. It makes it seem as if I have more time. :-)
This system may work for you too.
Prospecting: a lot of dirt, a little gold
When prospecting, I'm collecting ideas. I mind map, make lists, and generally noodle. I can do this anytime, anywhere. I always do it in supermarket checkout lines for example, or whenever I'm waiting for something (on the phone, for a meeting to start etc), and when I'm walking my dog.
You can easily do your own prospecting when you're doing something else, because it doesn't take much concentration. In fact, if your mind and body are primarily occupied with something else, prospecting works better.
There's only one rule for prospecting: KNOW WHAT YOU'RE LOOKING FOR, and write it down on an index card. The "writing down" part is vital. You're saying to your subconscious mind (or Muse, Holly Lisle's great term): "Hey, when you have a moment, send me something I can use about this topic/ answer this question".
Drafting: generating text
Drafting is taking your mind maps, lists and other data and turning it into a rough draft. Your rough draft doesn't need to make sense. This is not finished writing. A draft can consist of expanded lists, half sentences, and questions.
When you're drafting, you're just playing, seeing where your thoughts take you.
Try to make drafting fun for yourself. It doesn't need much concentration. You can listen to music (I like listening to old comedy shows like Yes, Prime Minister) while you draft. You can draft while you're cooking dinner, and on your commute, and in the bath - make drafting FUN. Don't think of it as "writing." You're just generating text.
Writing: making sense of it all
After prospecting and drafting, you can write. However, don't write before you're ready. For me, writing a final or semi-final draft takes concentration, so I do it first thing in the morning, when I'm most wide awake and creative. Early mornings are my best writing time, but you may be a night owl; I used to do my best writing late at night, and perhaps you do too.
Wait to write your final draft until your Muse gives you a nudge. This is inspiration, and it's the goal of prospecting and drafting. Your Muse saying "Yoo hoo! I've got some great stuff here! Write it down NOW!"
Try dividing your writing time into prospecting, drafting and writing. You can prospect and draft anywhere. I hope the process works for you.
There's more on ending procrastination in "Top 70 Writing Tips To Help You To Write More".
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