Here is an article I wrote for my local SCBWI a few years ago. It ties in with my post over at the PBJ blog. This weeks theme is "Back To The Drawing Board".
Fifteen Minutes
Roz Fulcher
If you are in the process of trying to build your freelancing career you may be finding it difficult to devote as much time to it as you would like.
No matter who we are, we all lead complex lives that involve more than working on our craft all day. I finally had to accept that I wasn’t always going to have a large chunk of time that I could spend entirely on my art. Instead of waiting until I had some spare time (ha! There’s no such thing with 3 young kids) I began spending 15 minutes at a time on it. Whether you are trying to overcome artist’ block , trying to find more time to create or juggling deadlines, I believe this strategy will benefit you too.
I initially learned this concept when I was researching ways to declutter my home. Devoting 15 MINUTES to each item on my ‘to do’ list worked so well for me that I soon discovered that I could apply it to my freelancing. I began seeing substantial progress.
For example, let’s say you are ready to start submitting to publishers . Prepare a realistic plan and start working on it in 15 minute increments. We all have it somewhere in our schedule. Go through your CWIM book with a red pen (selecting appropriate publishers) while on your lunch break. Address envelopes while watching your favorite tv program. Print samples while the rice is simmering. Spend 15 minutes before bed updating your database. You don’t have to FINISH tasks in that amount of time , just get some of it ‘knocked out’.
Yes, it can be difficult to find the time but we shouldn’t let it stop us physically or mentally. We may have to be more creative with how we get there but in the end we can go to bed knowing we did something toward making our dream a reality.
Get ready, get set, go turn on your timers!
Remember * ANY energy you put toward your goal WILL promote PROGRESS.*
Suggested reading:
* The Power of Focus – Jack Canfield
* Time Management From The Inside Out – Julie Morgenstern
* www.Flylady.net - Organizing strategies
