Three Tips for Getting in the Best Headspace for Writing
We are in the thick of the holidays and winding down the year, which means most of us are being stretched a bit thinner than normal. However, even with the office parties, the family obligations, and the end-of-the-year craziness, work still has to be done.
For writers, this can be especially challenging because the nickeling and diming takes away from the focus you need. As I balance what is a very busy time for me both personally and professionally, here are three approaches I take to stay in the best writing headspace.
1. Make it one of your top priorities
Stephen Covey, the author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, described how we should prioritize the most important things in life with the “big rocks versus little rocks” analogy. The below video showing it works is a staple of many professional development courses. With that in mind, treat writing like a big rock and plan accordingly for it.
2. Try not to multitask
You can write with the TV on and constantly check your email or messaging apps. It is just going to take you twice as long as giving it your undivided attention would, with the work being half as good. If you can, close your email and apps and focus on the task at hand.
3. Find your zone
Everyone has that happy place where they are able to find greater focus and get the creative juices flowing. For me, it is listening to music through my headphones. For others, it may be white noise or just the coziness of their office. Find out what is and go there.
My last piece of advice is to try not to get too overwhelmed if the other demands of life are getting in the way of your writing. No matter how busy you are, your life is not like this poor guy’s on The Thick of It. If the challenges of your day are keeping you from doing your best writing, take a deep breath and know there will be time to get in a better headspace very soon.
If you’re looking for more inspiration on how to get into your best writing headspace, you might enjoy my earlier post, “Write in the Place and Manner That’s Best for You”. It’s a reminder that sometimes the key to better writing isn’t about discipline—it’s about finding the right place to let the words flow.
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