NicoleSummer holidays have started, and already I feel like I’m floating through the days.
Most writers struggle with an “infinite” amount of time. They need structure, accountability, and routines.
So, today, I’m going to take you through my 2 top tips for structuring your summer — so that you make progress with your writing while also taking time off.
# 1: Create your productivity framework
# 2: Find people to hold you accountable
Let’s dive in.
Step 1: Create your productivity framework
A framework is essentially a set of writing rules you’ll apply this summer. This way, you avoid decision fatigue.
For example, I plan to write at specific days, no matter what, and will arrange childcare for those hours (not days). I know I won’t write thousands of words, but I want to stay connected to my projects and feel I’m still “myself” as a writer, not just a mum.
Your action:
1. Decide which days and hours are reserved for writing throughout the summer.
2. Mark them in your calendar (The Write Habit Planner is perfect for that). Those are your “on” times – you will write, draft, edit, research, outline, etc.
3. Mark times where you “off” and fully enjoy your free time (or childcare, in my case).
Now, you have a clear framework of “writing” versus “non-writing” days (or half-days). The decision is made. Now you just have to look at your calendar in the morning.
Step 2: Find people to hold you accountable
We all love accountability and deadlines. But how do you create this over the summer?
I have a writing partner, and although we both have childcare and can’t do our usual Friday co-writing, I’m going to set up a few sessions with her and stay in touch on Whatsapp.
Your action:
1. Find one person in your family, among friends or colleagues who is also writing over the summer.
2. Set goals together with them, e.g. weekly or monthly.
3. Schedule writing time, and tell each other on your phone chat how it’s going each week (or day).
Who might be the right person to check in with?
If you love these strategies and want to learn how to create a bullet-proof framework that you can take into term time and beyond, apply for my 90-Day Writing Accelerator. Previous cohort members published articles, book chapters, books, and grant proposals within 3 months.
Early enrolment with a super early bird discount is open until August 10 (30 % off, limited to 5 places).
