Writing is on one of the top rungs of my priority list, but there are a few things that knock it down a few notches. When it comes to my kids, they take precedence. Having a child in middle or high school means that you aren’t only remembering what it’s like to have your nights taken away from you because of homework, you get to relive it! Family time, games, homework, and FUN take some of the time away from writing, but it’s all a part of it. That being said, my kids have heard ‘I just have one more page left,’ or, ‘I’m just going to finish this chapter,’ dozens of times!

Exercise is another necessity that takes place instead of writing. I have thought of replacing my morning routine of swimming or lifting weights with writing, but still prefer the pool at this time of day. Waking up with movement brings me alive! I’m able to think through what is in store for me for the day, I can visualize my goals, and think through plotlines. This is my time to be by myself, think through issues, relax (yes, while working hard!), and have peace of mind throughout the day that I’m doing what I can to meet my fitness goals.

Work. Oh, that four-letter word that is the main reason I don’t get to write to my heart’s content every day. : ) While I’m not complaining about working, it does take up most of my time, as I’m sure it does yours as well. Keeping in mind that I’ll do what it takes (ethically, of course) to get my writing in, I can still write on a lunch break or take a day off from work to write.

If any or all of this sounds familiar and you’re left with disappointment at the end of the day because you didn’t get even five minutes of writing in, I have some tips for you!

• Some days I can write while my kids are doing their homework. Do they need to write a paper themselves and just need a nudge from you to get started? How about the quietness that comes from their brain churning out a math problem? Take advantage of these times.
• Even during the busiest days at work, you can (and probably should!) take a break for 10 to 15 minutes. Can you write during a break or a lunch? Take your laptop and write in the peace and quiet of your car where no one can interrupt you…unless they are way more gutsy than I am!
• Do you go on daily walks? I do…and I take my phone! I’ve been known to write thousands of words per day by talking into either Google Docs or the notes field into my phone.
• Do you have a commute to work? Do the same as the tip above and get some talking in!
• Remember that being an indie author means you have to tend to the business side as well. Sometimes it’s difficult to pick up and write whenever a spare block of time has popped up or when others are in the room (or sitting right next to you…or sitting in your lap). In this case, work on the business side of things. Clean up your email, make notes about characters or scenes, write your to-do list, or jot down ideas for your next cover. 
• As far as getting cleaning done versus diving into my next chapter, I’ll be wearing my shirt that says “I’d rather be writing.” This isn’t technically a writing tip, but it is a learning one. While cleaning or getting ready in the morning, listen to a YouTube video or Podcast about writing. My favorites are Sarra Cannon and MK Williams.

Do you have any other ways you sneak your writing in? If so, let me know!