Two Productivity Tools to Help You Get More Writing Done
One of the most important goals for a busy writer is to make each writing session as productive as possible. In the past, I have written about using outlines and banishing procrastination to improve productivity. Today, I wanted to talk about two tools that I use to make the most of my writing sessions.
The first one is a weekly planner. I write out all of the tasks that I have completed for each day. Without a weekly planner and an "accomplished" list, I wouldn't be able to see at a glance what all I have done over the last week. I also have access to previous weeks so I can flip through my planner and find out what day I completed a particular task, such as updating my Facebook ad.
I have found that it is extremely helpful and encouraging to me to see a list of tasks that I have actually completed rather than a heaping list of tasks that I still have to complete. I also find that when I write to-do lists, I tend to overestimate what I will have the time and the energy to complete. When trying to check tasks off my to-do list, I usually have a bunch of tasks that I can't check off because I didn't complete the task in its entirety. I completed part of the task, but not the whole thing.
The second tool that I use is a to-do list app called Wunderlist on my smartphone. I plug in each task that I want to complete for the week and add deadlines to each one. That way, I can sort the tasks by date and stay focused on the next task. As I complete each task (or sometimes at the end of the day), I mark the task as complete on the Wunderlist app and I also write it down on my planner.
Having two separate tools allows me to take a quick glance at my to-do list, while placing more focus on the list of tasks that I have completed.
Do you use a scheduler or planner for your writing tasks and goals? There are many tools available to help you make the most of your writing time. By having a small list of tasks for each day, you can be productive and efficient at your work. Throughout the day, you can review your list and then when you sit down to write, you can know exactly what you are going to devote your time to.
I have tried other planners and other methods. I used to make a to-do list on paper for each day, but then because I tend to overestimate what I can accomplish in a day (or what I'll have a desire to do), I ended up with multiple lists that were piling up. It wasn't the best method for me.
Find out what works for you. I find it rewarding to make a list of the things that I have accomplished because it allows me to see on a piece of paper how much I have done. And using an app on my phone has helped keep me focused on my writing during my writing sessions.
What tools do you use to make the most of your writing sessions or to make your life easier?
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