We can’t escape it—we all lead busy lives, and we only have a finite amount of time and energy to fit everything in. It’s little wonder our writing ends up getting pushed further and further down the to-do list. So how do we give it the priority it deserves in the time we have available?

Book a Dedicated Time

If at all possible, find some time during your day. Are you an early bird or a night owl? Carve out twenty or thirty minutes or any minutes for yourself. It doesn’t have to be a daily slot, but book it regularly into your calendar make it a priority booking.

Use Prompts

If you’re feeling a bit jaded when you sit down, challenge yourself with a prompt. You can find plenty on the internet or in books such as Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way or Monica Wood’s The Pocket Muse. Keep a list of those that appeal to you to avoid the temptation of using social media.

Use Headphones

Whether you’re working at home or elsewhere, headphones can effectively up your writing game. Whether you work to music, white noise, or nothing at all is a personal decision. Why not try them all and see what works best? Headphones also signal others that you don’t want to be disturbed, especially if you can’t shut yourself off in a separate room.

Find Your Tribe

One of the best ways to prioritize your writing is by finding an accountability buddy or joining a writing group. Having others to talk to about your writing keeps you motivated and allows you to discuss writing issues with people who understand and who can offer advice.

The most important thing you can do, however, is to keep working. That way, your writing will be a priority wherever it sits on your to-do list.