Writing is a business. While most of us adore it because of the creative aspects, if you intend to work as a professional and earn some salary from it, there are certain actions that need to be taken to keep the process moving forward.
This is a suggested task list for writers. If you are having problems managing your writing time, or knowing what needs to be done, this may be helpful.
Daily Writer’s Tasks:
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 1. Declutter your working area
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 2. Read to absorb word useage and gain new ideas
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 3. Assess what you have written, proof read. Take a break then do it again with fresh eyes.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 4. Write
Weekly Writer’s Tasks:
Take an artist’s date. Read, visit somewhere inspiring, browse through a library or research a related, or new topic to give you inspiration.- Put new ideas or snippets of information you need to remember into a notebook, scrapbook or index book so they aren’t lost. Programs such as OneNote or Circus Ponies Notebook are great for that.
- Update your accounting records and pay your business related bills.
- File any records, odd bits of paper or other miscellanea lying around your desk or computer.
- Follow up on outstanding invoices owed to you and queries without replies.
- Find a new market opportunities and locate their submission guidelines.
- Network to promote your work and find new resources you can utilise. However, wisely limit your social networking time. It will rob you of the real work you need to be doing: writing.
- Plan and schedule promotional activities such as give aways, guest blog spots and speaking engagements.
- Give yourself a pat on the back for what you have achieved and enjoy some rest!
Weekly Review:
- Plan what you need to do next week. Are there deadlines you need to adhere to?
- Review the progress of your projects. Write down what needs to be done next.
- Double back-up your computer files. Sync mobile devices.
- Virus scan your computer.
- Fix any broken or faulty equipment. Once your computer is backed up, update your software.
- Ensure you’re well stocked on stationary and computer supplies, such as print cartridges, so you can work without being forced to stop.
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What a great task list. There are a few on there that I hadn’t thought of. I keep at least two notebooks on me at all times (you never know when one will run out of paper). But I like your “artist date” idea. It’s good to get out and expand your horizons!
Thanks Karen, I appreciate the feedback!
Excellent advice here! I try to adhere to most of these things. I love the idea of putting the writing aside, then coming back to it and taking a fresh look at it. Funny how when you’re in the heat of the moment writing something, you think it’s great, and then after sleeping on it, you read it and wonder, “What was I thinking? I can’t use that line!” And then you come up with something better!
That happens to me all the time. Great ideas that on second thoughts are pretty lame, or not even remotely clear to the reader. That’s why I like to blog ahead and schedule posts. I have time to fix regrets.
Cate,
This post is a great reminder to all writers to have a specific plan for each day and week. Since the Muse is so fickle, it is helpful to have a plan of defense to keep ourselves accountable and on task. Thanks for sharing these practical tips and links to the business side of our creative passions!
Thanks Kathy! It’s a delicate balance of both that’s not easy.