I made a promise to myself years ago that I would never be one of those writers that says things like “I don’t have time to write.” Sure, it can be hard to sit down and write thousands of words every day if you have a job, kids, whatever. But if you want to be a writer, you have to write. No excuses.
The only way to ensure that I have time to write every day is to make the time. So I started waking up earlier every day. I know, I’ve lost some of you already, but stay with me. By waking up only twenty minutes earlier than usual, I’m guaranteed to have time to myself when I can sit down and write without interruptions. That’s totally worth it to me, and after the first few weeks of unhappiness wear off, it will be for you too.
I also bought a new notebook and pencil. I can’t do the whole computer thing that early. I like to hear the sound of the writing on the page as opposed to the tapping of the keys. I also bought 642 Things to Write About, which is a journal full of writing prompts to get you going, perfect for those mornings when your muse is still asleep.
And finally, I stuck with it.
I write for at least ten minutes every morning no matter what. If I don’t feel well, I write about that. If I had a late night, I write about how champagne always gives me a headache and how that makes me sad. The point is, I write. Every day.
It’s been one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself. And I highly recommend it if you can’t seem to find the time to write.