How to Write when You Don't Have the Time

Like every writer, sometimes I have other business to attend to and don't feel I have the time to write. Yet if I don't write, I don't get paid. So how can you keep your writing career going when parenthood calls or errands must be done? Here are some easy tips for utilizing small snippets of time when you don't think you have the time to write anything.

Notebook

Keep ideas for articles in a notebook and then make outlines for them as you go through your day. Your notebook doesn't have to be fancy, it can even be a simple scrap of paper. Just make sure to keep a pen and some paper with you at all times. As the ideas pop into your head jot them down.

If you're sitting in a waiting room listen to what is going on around you and often times you'll find plenty to write about.

Outline

Make an outline. If you have the idea but don't have the time to write it out yet, start a simple outline. It doesn't have to be elaborate. Just a simple outline. You can take it with you in your notebook and jot down ideas as you go throughout your errands. It will only take a moment to open your briefcase or purse and quickly jot down an idea or two and it just may give you some great information for your next article.

Jot down major ideas

As your jotting down your outline jot down major ideas that you can use to give some sustenance to your article. These don't need to be in depth, just enough to get your creative juices flowing when you finally have time to sit down and write. Of course, if you do find you have a few extra minutes take advantage of it and elaborate your major ideas.

Sub ideas under major ideas

As you write in your major ideas you're sure to come up with some sub ideas, jot those down too. Again you don't have to be detailed yet, just fill in the idea. You can add in the sustenance later when you have time.

Sum it up

After you've had time to sit down and fill out your outline and write your article, sum the article up in a few short sentences. Again, this doesn't have to be elaborate. Just a few short sentences to restate the facts. Don't go overboard and don't inundate your reader with all of the facts all over again. Just touch base on a highlight or two.

Editing older articles

When you simply don't have any time to write an entire article, it's time to go back and edit your older articles. This will help keep them fresh and keep your readership up.

Everyone can find time to write if they simply use a few minutes as they go about their day and get into the habit of keeping a notebook and pen handy.