4 Steps to Manage Writing Over the Holiday Period
It can be very easy to feel as though we should be writing over the holiday period. More than likely, we’re off work and taking a break from usual routines and responsibilities. So it’s natural to think there will be more time for writing. However, although we may not be working, it doesn’t mean we’ll have endless free time.
So, how should you approach writing this holiday season? Take a look at these 4 tips.
# 1 Don’t feel obligated
There is absolutely no rule saying you need to write over the holiday period. So don’t force yourself or feel like you have to.
The holiday period is a time to rest and reset before the New Year. You can apply this to your creativity. Don’t feel like you should be writing just because you see other people online doing it or because it feels like the expectation. You’re not in competition with anyone to get words written this holiday period.
#2 Find appropriate time
If you do decide to write during the holiday period, start by finding the best possible time. Often, the holidays are taken up seeing people and attending events.
If you know you want to write, look at the plans that are being made and find the best times that work around the current schedule. Try to avoid adding any unnecessary stress or pressure to the holiday season by overloading yourself with deadlines and work. Instead, see the time gaps available to you — mornings before the family is awake, evenings when kids are asleep, lunch while everyone is resting, etc. This can help you create some kind of routine or structure so you can prioritise your writing.
#3 Set boundaries
If you decide to write, be sure to inform others around you so you can set suitable boundaries.
This could be having an hour to yourself in the evenings after the kids are asleep. This could be asking your partner for their support at home to make sure you can get the necessary time.
The most important thing is that you’re communicating what you need, setting the time parameters, and being grateful to the people who help you achieve this. (Including people in your boundaries and rewards will help them feel like they’re a part of your writing and can celebrate your achievements with you.)
#4 Have fun
Most importantly, writing should be fun.
Do whatever you need to do to make sure it’s fun for you. Set a deadline to keep yourself accountable, set daily goals, implement rewards, or just write as and when the creativity strikes.
Don’t worry about what other writers may be doing or how many words they’re achieving. You do you.
Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way to write (or not write) this holiday season. What’s important, is that you’re making it work for you and the people you’ll be sharing your time with. Happy festive season!
