Creating the Time and Mindset for Your Novel 

*Collaborative post

 

It might be true to say that everyone has a story inside them. For some of us, there’s a burning desire to get that story out; usually via a computer keyboard. However, people often quit after just a few thousand words, and lack of time or motivation are key reasons for this. 

Creating the Time and Mindset for Your Novel 

How is it even possible to write a novel in the 21st century? 

We all lead such busy lives nowadays. The Mental Health Foundation discovered that 74% of people in the UK felt ‘overwhelmed or unable to cope’ at some point in the past year.  

Given those staggering statistics, how does anyone ever find the time to write? Well, there’s an art to it, but it involves the right mindset and some good organisational skills. 

 

Stage 1: getting in the right frame of mind 

• Recognise that it’s hard work (but rewarding). Writing a novel isn’t easy. Even laying down the first draft can take months, sometimes years of work. Then there’s editing afterwards, which is also time-consuming. However, you have to keep in mind that it’s a rewarding experience. You’re not only honing your writing skills, but you’re also expressing yourself in a powerful, often cathartic way. 

• Do it for the right reasons. Make no mistake, not many people get rich from writing. That’s why it’s a bad idea to make money your motivation; most authors (even bestselling ones) still have day-jobs! However, if you love to write, or simply want to share your words with others, this is a great reason to go for it. 

• Ignore negative comments. Writers often encounter quite a bit of negativity. Well-meaning relatives might enquire why you’re wasting your time on it. Brutal folk on social media may mock your intentions. Brush your shoulders off and keep focused on what you’re doing, not what they’re saying. 

 

Stage 2: creating a writing space 

• Claim your ‘zone’. A writing ‘zone’, even if it’s just a corner of the dining room table, makes it much easier to stay motivated. You’ve got your specific space to write, and that’s what you’ll do there, whenever you can. 

• Get in the mood. If possible, get the kids into another room (just for a short while!). Light some scented candles or spray your favourite scent (Baccarat Rouge 540 is good for some intensity). Get the lighting right, and eliminate as many distractions as possible. That means switching the smartphone off and ignoring email notifications. 

• Get comfortable. Make sure you feel comfortable while you write. Some people prefer to lounge on the bed, with their laptop on their knees. Others prefer to work at a desk, while sitting in a special ergonomic chair. Do whatever works for you. 

 

Stage 3: make that time! 

• Get in the habit. Make it a habit to write a certain number of words, at a certain time of day. Some people choose to do this in the evening, just after the kids have gone to bed. Others prefer to get up a bit earlier, then hammer out a few words then. 
• Keep that time sacrosanct. Let nothing come between you and your novel at this time. Ask your partner if they could manage things while you’re at work. If they’re supportive of you, they’ll happily do this.