Taking part in this writing challenge has been not only a matter of pushing myself to write but also an activity in discovering how best I write. I’ve never really had a routine – I’ve simply scribbled things down as they’ve come to me. Occasionally I have set aside time to write which on the whole I have found an unsuccessful technique.
When working part time at my previous job I had a fairly late start so I would go into work early, enjoy the walk through the park, grab a leisurely coffee and sit down with my notebook. I found my mind was brimming with ideas first thing in the morning and without the interference of human interaction I was able to capture a ‘flow’ of creativity, or at least manage a good brainstorming session. It also helped I was working in a low-stress job. Unfortunately by lunchtime my creativity was gone and after work I could really only manage technical writing (such as journalism work).
As a writer that has to maintain a life outside of writing (that would be, well, everyone!) it’s a matter of finding a balance between family, work, writing and of course reading.
Max Barry has discussed the common ways of finding the right time and environment in which to write. I particularly like how he has pointed out that one style does not necessarily work all the time. Sometimes you might need to push yourself or give yourself more room. Sometimes you might need to change your session or location. Most of all you need to recognise when what you are doing is not working.
I did attempt NaNoWriMo last year however I only achieved a few days’ worth before I gave up. I realised my writing was not headed in the direction I liked and I wanted time to plan my story and characters (I’m still working on that story). NaNoWriMo, or a similar method may work for some people however I don’t think I was in the right position to do it last year. I don’t think I’ll attempt it this year.
Another writing technique is the Pomodoro Technique, a favourite of John Birmingham’s.
Being the kind of writer that is easily distracted and tends to procrastinate I can see this one working for me. I can particularly see this one working in the field of journalism.
Freelance journalist Andrew McMillen has given some great practical pointers on the way he operates – both in his actual day-to-day methods and in staying motivated. When you are your own boss there is a lot to juggle (writing is only a small part of it!) and organisation is key.
Richard Morgan also provides an interesting read on the ups and downs of freelance writing.
