Write Time

by Camy Tang

Working Full-Time and Writing
(or for any busy writer)

As always, remember that these tips won't all work for everyone, so pick and choose what's right for you.

For those who write later in the day or after work

STRESS

Stress is a total creativity-sucker. I can't string coherent words together after a particularly trying day. Don't tell yourself that you need to dive right into your project as soon as you get home, and don't feel guilty when you can't--sometimes we just need time to recharge or unwind. Writing saps more energy than you realize, and starting it as a tired lump won't allow you to write efficiently.

There are two similar options: cave time and deliberate relaxation.

CAVE TIME

I usually feel exhausted when I get home from work. I try to have some "cave time," or a period to relax by myself and rejuvenate. Sometimes all I need is some time doing mindless tasks like walking the dog, washing dishes, going through the mail. Other times I need a few minutes napping, or in front of the TV, or reading for pleasure. After some "cave time," I'm more open to working on my manuscript.

On the flip side, don't spend so much time relaxing that you never make it to your computer to start writing. If you find that you do that, then skip the "cave time" and force yourself to write for a little while--10, 15, 30 minutes, whatever you can do.

DELIBERATE RELAXATION

I call this "deliberate relaxation" because I totally suck at titles and couldn't think of anything else.

Sometimes "cave time" doesn't cut it, especially if the day has been stressful to the extreme. That's when it's time to bring out the big guns and delve into some deliberate pampering.

Think about what activities really relax you, what really allows your body and mind to let go. Bath/shower? Aromatherapy? Music? Outdoors with nature? Indoors? A shopping spree? Food? (although be careful about these last two options--don't break your bank and be wary of stress-eating.)

Then go do it. Take an hour to soak in a scented tub. Spend time sipping a mocha in Barnes and Noble. Indulge in a DVD. You'll find that once an activity has drained the stress from your mind and body, you'll be much more motivated to write.

Again, don't spend too much time relaxing--allow yourself time to write, too.

WRITER'S VACATION

Rarely can anyone work without vacations or days off. Companies these days give vacation days, sick days, floating holidays, discretionary days, you name it--they allow for time off. Even with their employees working five days a week with weekends free, companies know their people need the occasional extra time away from work. Writing--your "second job"--is no exception.

Why? Stress-buster. Also, a break in the usual routine can renew creativity.

At least once a month, take a vacation day from writing. Say you work full time, and you write after work with a midweek "rest day." Take a day off from writing IN ADDITION TO your writing "rest day."

Camy Tang lives in San Jose, California. She previously worked biology research, and she is a staff worker for her church youth group. She runs the Story Sensei critique service, and her Asian chick-lit novel has just been contracted by Zondervan.

Comments

[Dee Stewart]

great info!