Novel drafting rule #3: Set a writing schedule

Setting a writing schedule that you can stick to is important for making consistent progress on your writing projects. First, determine what time of day is your most productive time. Think about when you are most alert and focused. Some people prefer to write in the early morning, while others find that they are most productive in the afternoon or evening. I like to get my writing out of the way first thing because I know that otherwise I will find other things to do and never get around to writing. This is a great strategy for anyone who often finds themselves cleaning house when there is writing to be done. Once you identify your most productive time, try to schedule your writing sessions during that time.

However, be sure to set realistic goals. Determine how much time you realistically have available for writing each day or week. Then, set a goal that is achievable within that time frame. For example, if you only have 30 minutes each day to write, set a goal to write 250 words during that time. It is also essential to establish a consistent routine for when and where you will write. This can help you get into the habit of writing regularly and make it easier to stick to your schedule. Try to create a writing environment that is free from distractions and conducive to your creative process. Just don’t get too precious about it.

Be flexible with your writing time, but also be prepared to hold yourself accountable to make sure you will stick with your draft through the end. It’s important to be flexible with your writing schedule, especially if unexpected events or obligations arise. If you can’t write during your scheduled time, try to make up the time later in the day or week. Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a session, just get back on track as soon as possible. At the same time, you should hold yourself accountable to your writing goals by tracking your progress and celebrating your successes. You can use a planner, a spreadsheet, or a writing app to track your progress and stay motivated.

When I wrote the first draft of my novel, Valley of the Bees, I started with a fifteen-chapter novel outline and then set a goal to write one chapter each day until the draft was done. Before I started, I returned all my books to the library and made a promise to myself to not read another book until my first draft was written. I deleted all my social media apps off my phone and even stopped playing Farmville (which was hard, because I spent a LOT of time playing that stupid game back in the day!) I set my alarm for an hour earlier than usual (which is actually pretty easy to stick with if you begin in the fall when the time falls back!) and consciously created a routine that I was determined to stick to.

While I was writing that first draft, I didn’t allow myself to so much as glance at my cell phone when I woke up in the morning. I would get up, use the bathroom, start the coffee maker, and then sit down to write. I got right to it, and I didn’t stop (except to occasionally fill my coffee cup) until I had written the entire chapter. For me, this was the perfect way to go about it because it was such a relief to have the writing done early each day! I could then go on about my business for the rest of the day without having to think about it.

Of course, what worked for me might not work as well for you. It’s important for you to analyze your own situation to determine what time-wasters you can cut out of your life to make room for your writing. Remember, the key to sticking to a writing schedule is to make it manageable and enjoyable. It must be tailored to your needs, not to mine. If you can create a routine that you look forward to, you’ll be more likely to stick with it over the long term.