May 30, 2019
6 Great Tips on How to Meet Your Writing Deadlines
As a writer you should know how important it is to meet your deadlines. Whether it is a book or a short article you are writing, you should always make sure that you are able to meet your deadlines. This is especially true if you are writing a book for the very first time. If you are writing a book, it is imperative that you meet your deadlines, because it is will enable you to get your book published and also help you stay in the good graces of the publishing company you are working with. If you are a freelance writer, it is even more important because your reputation for efficiency and speed is a necessity in order for you to get writing jobs. So if you want to continue to get writing jobs it is imperative that you are able to meet your deadlines. Which is why you should develop good writing habits that will enable you to meet your writing deadlines. Here are 6 great tips on how to meet your writing deadlines.
1. Have a set writing schedule
If you want to stay on top of your deadlines, it is imperative that you have a writing schedule to follow. This is because your writing schedule will help you keep a more disciplined approach to your writing sessions. If there is one constant thing about the writing process, it is the fact that it usually takes a long time. Whether you are writing a book or doing freelance article writing, the process usually takes a long time. And it is not uncommon for writers to get bored or distracted during the writing process. During the first weeks of the writing process you are all vim and vinegar, you can’t wait to get started on the writing process. But as the weeks go by, you are suddenly distracted by other things. This is why you should have a writing schedule from the very start. By having a set writing schedule, you will have a set time that you will have to follow on a daily business. By following your writing schedule as consistently as possible, you are thus making the writing process a part of your life. You are making it a daily habit. And in the long run writing will just become a part of who you are as a person. So before you even get started on the writing process, make sure that you have a writing schedule.
2. Take your deadlines seriously
Aside from having a writing schedule, it is also important that you have the right mindset. Some writers go into the writing process, without a proper understanding or respect for deadlines. Some people only think of it as a set date. But in truth deadlines are more than mere dates. They are obligations. They are proof of trust between you and your editor or clients. Deadlines are a test of your commitment and integrity as a writer. So before you get started on a writing project, make sure that you have this on your mind and strive to reach your deadlines at all costs.
3. Make a list
It is also imperative that you have a more organized approach to the writing process. So before you start on any writing project, write a list. Think of it as a to do list, of the things you need to prioritize or ones that you can leave off until later. For example, you are writing a book and doing sideline work at the same time. This can be a tough prospect for most writers. This is why you should have a list. The list will make the writing process more ordered and allow you to write without pressure and fear of being behind on the writing process.
4. Do your research work as early and thoroughly as possible
Aside from having a to do list, it is also a good idea to do your research work as early and thoroughly as possible. Writing with a deadline means that every second counts. So it is imperative that you do your research as early as possible. Before you even get started on the writing process, you should have a compilation of facts, dates, statistics that can help support your writing. That way, you can just focus on writing and meeting your deadline.
5. Stay healthy
It is also important that you have an efficient health regimen. Even though you have a deadline, this should never be a reason to neglect your health. Remember that in order for you to write in an effective and efficient manner, you will have to stay healthy. So you should make it a point to exercise on a regular basis and eat nutritious food. Stay away from fast foods and try to have a high fiber diet. You should also strive to get a full 8 hours of sleep every day. By staying healthy, you are increasing your chances of success.
6. Don’t take on more work than you can manage
If you want to meet your writing deadlines, it is important that you know your limits and know when to say no. Remember that you are only human and you can’t do everything. So if you are already swamped by long term writing projects, don’t delude yourself by saying that you can do even more. So if you feel the urge to start on another book, or take up another client, you should ask yourself first. Can I really do all this work? Or is it just my ego pushing me? By being honest with yourself and knowing your limits, you can dissuade yourself from taking on too much work than you can manage.
