Writing Schedules

Do you have a writing schedule? 

In the past, I would write whatever I wanted, often abandoning certain projects for a long time for new ideas. While this was fun, it didn't help me finish a series or I forgot to release a book I promised. As a writer, this isn't a good thing. Readers like consistency and they want to complete a series as quickly as possible. 
In 2018, I started creating a yearly schedule for myself to ensure I met deadlines and completed the books that needed to be completed. While I originally found it to be a little stifling due to my ADHD, in time I got used to this new system and turned it into a challenge instead. 
A few months before a new year, I will map out what books need to be written and when they are due. Unfortunately, in the beginning I had a habit of overestimating my time and ability and adding far too many projects and not taking into account free time for myself. As you can imagine, I soon became burned out.
Here are some important things to consider if you are making a schedule for yourself -

• Be realistic with how much you can get done per year.
• Factor in free time.
• If you can finish a book in six weeks, take eight to cover any time lost and to give yourself a buffer if something goes wrong.
• Prioritize tight deadlines and completion of a series as they are most important.
• Don't be afraid to shake up your schedule if you have to.
• Be sure to take into consideration service providers such as cover designers and editors and find out how far in advance they are booked. Just because your book is ready by a certain date doesn't mean they will be available to help you at that time.

A schedule can be a great way to keep on top of your writing and to ensure you are releasing books in a timely manner for your audience. There are a lot of free programs online to help you plan or you can keep a simple diary.

Happy Writing!