There are many things that can take your focus when you are determined to write. Now, distractions can be anything, and coming from anywhere. Yet, you must know that you have control over what you pay attention to. You have the complete power to write, not write, or be distracted while writing.

The chief way to keep focus while you are writing is to develop a writing schedule. Being able to develop a set time to write will remind you that you have to write! Your writing schedule should be three things:

1.) Fixed-Flexible. Your writing schedule should suit your life, and be able to adjust to its demands. An example of this you want to write for 1 hour 3 times a week. Let’s say you still have a day job and you have to pick up hours. One hour 3 times a week may not be possible! However, you may be able to do 1 hour twice a week, or 30 minutes 3 times a week. The goal is to write–while making it suit your life. This is especially helpful when you a specific deadline assigned or chosen.

2.) Stick to the plan. Book writing can often feel like hacking through a jungle with a machete. It is essential that you have a reference point to re-center. Having an outline (or reworking the outline in certain cases) to reference provides a source of encouragement to keep writing.

3.) Be like a rubber band. The great thing about a writing schedule is that you can adjust it as you see fit! You can increase time, decrease it, or even designate certain days (this is different from fixed-flexible). This is a good tool when you are getting back to your writing after some hiatus.

Keep up the good work!