Ask Me Anything

Again, I'm going to answer two questions that are linked.

What is your writing routine? - Georgina

I don't particularly have a set writing routine. I try to fit it in as and when I can as I have a full time job that keeps me out of the house for 8.5 hours a day (including travel). Sometimes, I will take my laptop in with me and try to get something written on my lunch break, but as I'm often surrounded by my colleagues, it's not always easy.

I also run a proofreading business, and if I have a job on, I try to give that priority - but will try to squeeze some of my own writing time in when I can.

When I do have the time to write, I'm very easily distracted as my work space is in the lounge - and with multiple pets, two kids, and a Gaz, it can get quite rowdy.

I clearly need to be more disciplined.

What does your writing day look like? - Donna

There are two scenarios for this question. So here goes:

Day Job Day:

I usually get home from work at around 6-6:30pm. I get changed out of my uniform, and make myself (and the kids if they haven't eaten) a quick dinner.

By 8pm (if no events are being run by the writing community I'm part of - more about them in a later post), I sit at my desk (or on my bed, depends where everyone else is) and open a word doc. I try to write for about 20 minutes, then give myself a break - usually I'll make a cup of tea or simply stand up and move - maybe wash up after dinner. Then try again for another 20 minutes.

If my motivation is good, I can crank out about 1000 words, if not, I spend those 20 minute sessions scrolling FB reels.

Day At Home day:

I still try to get up fairly early so I can have a couple cups of tea before I get myself washed and dressed - for some reason I am unable to be productive in my PJs, I have no idea why.

I usually then spend about an hour catching up on domestic things such as laundry or sweeping up pet hair in the front room.

When I do finally sit at my desk, I try to find someone to sprint with - writing for a set amount of time to get as many words down as possible without editing them - I find these so motivating for me.

After an hour of solid writing, I tend to give the dog a walk, have a light lunch, then have a nap (I'm old, I need it).

Then, I prep dinner, then try to get at least another hour or two of writing done in between cooking, eating, and washing up - it's a challenge not being distracted by FB reels. Especially the AITA ones.

So, being an author, especially one that doesn't write full time, is exhausting and kinda boring. But I wouldn't do anything else with my limited spare time.