Having kids is distracting. They need attention, have a million questions (every day), and on top of all that they love me and want to show me that. But it’s not just kids. Distractions are EVERYWHERE. In your little electronic device that is borderline attached to you, there are at least a dozen different distractions clamoring for your attention throughout the day. And somehow, those distractions end up claiming my time, and the big things I actually want to accomplish in my life get pushed aside.
The other day I was trying to watch a conference on TV. It was really important, and I wanted to learn a lot of stuff. I had my notebook out and my pen ready. Fortunately, all the speakers are recorded, and I can go back and listen to what they had to say because almost nonstop I was being interrupted by my three little loving distractions.
In the end I didn’t really get what I wanted from the conference, but I’ve since gone back to listen when I don’t have distractions. During these times, I was able to get a lot more out of what the speakers had to say.
When it comes to writing, having the right frame of mind is really important. Brandon Sanderson, in one of his YouTube videos (I don’t remember which one right now, but I’ll link it when I find it) he shared that it takes him about 15 minutes to get into the swing of his story any time he starts writing. Every time he has an interruption it takes him 15 minutes to get re-immersed in the story. If that sounds like you, any kind of distraction really eats up the time you set aside for writing.
My recommendation to you. Find a time, find a place, and make it special. If you need to make a little sign on your door that says, GO AWAY, I’M HAVING MY WRITING TIME! Or something along those lines, do it! Another great way to eliminate distractions is to invite someone to be your writing advocate. Let them know your schedule, what your goals are, and ask them to help defend your writing time.
You need this if you want to accomplish those goals at the end of the day. Let’s make it happen!
If you know someone who’s been struggling to accomplish their writing goal, consider sharing this post with them.