In talking to new writers, there’s one common refrain that I hear time and time again: I just can’t find time to write!
I see this it on blogs, in the WU Facebook group (you should totally join if you aren’t already a member), and hear it in person. The response to this pseudo-question tends to be one of the following:
- If you really want to write, you’ll find the time.
- You have to make sacrifices to be a writer.
- It’s all about priorities. If you’re not prioritising your writing, you’re not a real writer.
- Just do it.
Now, those answers are technically true. You do have to prioritise your writing, you may have to sacrifice another activity, you can find time to write, and there comes a time when you just have to sit down and channel Nike. But the problem with those answers is that they don’t speak to the practical side of how to find time to write.
[pullquote]But the problem with those answers is that they don’t speak to the practical side of how to find time to write.[/pullquote]
If you don’t think people need specific, practical advice to succeed at making changes in their lives, just look at how many people pay for personal trainers, gym sessions, and nutritionists when everyone knows we just need to eat better and exercise more.
But before we look at some practical advice, let’s consider why finding time to write can be problematic.
