Schedule Time for Freelance Writing

Every job comes with challenges, and freelance writing is no exception. While there are certainly advantages to being able to write from home on your own schedule, sometimes not having a more rigid schedule to follow can be a downfall.

Due to family and other commitments, not everyone can keep a set writing schedule, but the better you get at blocking out time for your freelance work, the better the resulting product is likely to be. Some may be able to focus with kids underfoot or with the television blaring, but most will be more productive without all the distractions.

So we know having scheduled time to write is a good idea, but how do you do it?

Make a List of Your Current Schedule

Everyone has things they have to do every day, so you already have a schedule or some sort. If you make a list of all the things that you have to accomplish with your home and family each day, it might look like:

Get the kids/spouse up and dressed
Fix breakfast and pack lunches
Get the kids off to school/spouse off to work
Fix dinner
After dinner family time

On certain days you may add other things, like carting the kids to ball practice or dance class, church or other activities. Don't list chores; only list the things that have to be done at certain times.

Pen Your Freelance Writing Time Into the Schedule

Once you have a list of things that must be done, take a look at any blocks of time available and schedule your freelance work accordingly. One of the many benefits of working from home is the flexibility, but try to stick to the schedule as much as possible. You'd have set hours at a job outside of home, so make writing your job and don't be tempted to sway from the schedule too much.

Take Breaks From Your Computer

You can (and should) take breaks during any large block of time you set aside to write. If you've been able to set aside a two or three hour span of time for writing, you can still start laundry or soak dishes during 15 minute breaks away from your computer. Don't let yourself get distracted for more than the allotted break time, and set a timer or alarm on your cell phone to remind you to get back on task.

The trick is to treat your freelance writing career like the job that it is and not let other distractions pull you away from it unless absolutely necessary. If you were commuting to a job outside of your home, your boss wouldn't appreciate you extending your break to go home and vacuum the living room.

Source:
Personal experience