Are you asking yourself the same question as I am? How in world is any sane person supposed to fit writing a book in along with the busy holiday seasons and a day job?
It is possible. You can do this!
Plan, Pray and Snatch.
These three things have saved my sanity the last two weeks.
I so badly wanted to complete the MBTWRIMO this year.
For those of you new to the writing world, November is National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), where writers set a goal to write a 50,000 word manuscript in one month.
Yes, if I didn’t think I was crazy when characters started talking to me, trying to complete a book during the holiday season should make me certifiable crazy.
Plan: I made a plan using some of the things recommended by fellow writers.
- Enlisted the aid and support of my family
- Made lists to help my family keep track and do things without me
- Premade meals
- Scheduled time for social gatherings like Thanksgiving luncheon with my daughters etc.
- Maximized my work schedule (planned my work time with as little interruptions as possible)
- Get up earlier to write
And of course, life still interrupted.
The first day I didn’t get to write, then the second, then the third. By the end of that first week I was desperate. I started to feel sorry for myself. Really, I had a whine party and selfishly (or not), didn’t include anybody but myself.
Then I prayed.
Prayer shifted my focus. The story I’m working on has a spiritual message that talks about being “chosen” by God. I had to step back and remember I wasn’t writing for me, it’s to tell God’s message. So ultimately it’s in His hands. I may not be able to make a way, but we all know God is!
Snatch. Every. Moment. I snatch ever moment I can.
Work cutting into your time? I had a meeting at work that was unscheduled and required me to drive in on my off day. Then when I arrived I was told the meeting was delayed by an hour.
Seriously?!
I wasn’t on the clock, so you know what I did? I opened up my trusty laptop to hammer out some words in my manuscript. After an hour I had a great scene! I hit the save button with a huge smile on my face.
Company Over? Involve them. Seriously. I have company staying at my home until we ring in the new year of 2013. That in itself is a little bit of a distraction.
While we were cooking Sunday dinner, I asked them to help me come up with some good ‘ole East Texas slangs for my manuscript.
Whew, talk about laughing till you get a stich in your side. My friends threw out some of the funniest slangs, some I had never heard of. I ended up with at least three to be included in my manuscript.
Finally, my plan is coming together, slowly but surely. I see the finish line around the corner!
What has helped you to keep writing this holiday season?
Blessings,
Alena Tauriainen
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A romance novel addict, Alena juggles life in the family business while mothering four zany kids. She ponders the beginning aspects of a writer’s life while enjoying real life with her family.
Comments 1
Goodness, Aleana! Company until New Years! Seriously? But I’m sure they are a blessing to you. This is great advice for anytime, not just holidays.
Wishing you all a blessed Thanksgiving!