Summer Writing Routines

Stephanie’s  and Kitty’s blogs this week about figuring out life through writing their thoughts down or talking with friends inspired my blog this week. I was going to write about something else, but at this moment, my summer routines are what I need the most help with. Hopefully by the end of the blog I’ll have my summer plans good to go and you’ll have some summer inspiration as well!

Summer vacation is in full swing at my house. When I was a kid, this meant hours of undisturbed time sitting in my favorite rocking chair reading book after book after book (Nancy Drew anyone? Sweet Valley High?). This summer feels a little bit like that, but instead of reading I am writing. In fact, I’m feeling a little bit giddy over how much writing time I suddenly have. (Let this be an encouragement to you moms with young kids—they grow up and become increasingly independent!)

The first week of summer break 2011, I wrote all day long. Amazing. And so fun.

However, now in week two, I’ve noticed my concentration isn’t as focused as last week. I’m easily distracted. I’m not as productive. Uh oh. Time to lay down my summer routines!

Step 1. Summer Goals

Production Goal: My most important summer goal is to finish the edits on my current WIP. When I complete that, I can send the WIP off to beta readers. If I finish early, I think my reward will be to delve back into my other WIPs and apply some new tools I’m learning right now. I’ve got new ideas and want to see how they change my outlines. But I don’t want to spend a whole lot of time on the old stuff. Must keep moving forward. So this would be a bonus.

Professional Growth Goal: I want to write down the tools that work for me. I’ve got lots of writing books, with lots of great advice. It’s time to pinpoint the tools/techniques that I like and use and write them down so I don’t forget about them. (Hmmm sounds like a blog post.)

Step 2. Summer Deadlines

Need the calendar for this one. When I finish writing this blog I’ve got to evaluate how much work I’ve got left and set mini-deadlines for each tool/technique I’m using. For example, right now I’m rewriting subplots, which takes me all through the novel, character by character. When I’m done that, I think I’ll take another look at the main character. Then it’s time for line edits with a focus on voice. Oh, and I need another pass looking at setting.

Step 3. Summer Routines

I learned this week that more time available can quickly turn into more time wasted. What works best for my writing is having blocks of limited time. If I know I only have two hours to write, I can stay focused. Knowing this, I plan to arrange my schedule to put pressure on my writing time. Using swim lessons, playdates, camp schedules, exercise, housework, etc. I can add boundaries to my writing time. Weird maybe, but it works for me.

So there’s my plan. Thanks for listening as I hashed it out! If you need to talk through your plan, go ahead, we’ll all listen right back.