Writing procrastination is a common struggle that many writers face.
Whether it’s an aspiring author, a student working on assignments, or a seasoned professional crafting stories, essays, articles, or other writing projects, procrastination can take root.
The temptation to delay the writing process is powerful, often fueled by fear, self-doubt, or the overwhelming nature of the project at hand.
However, recognizing and addressing this tendency is crucial for personal and professional growth... and for getting the project done.
This article will dive into the reasons behind writing procrastination and effective strategies to break free from its grip.
UNDERSTANDING THE ROOTS OF PROCRASTINATION
1. Fear of Failure
One of the primary reasons people procrastinate in writing is the fear of failure. The blank page can be intimidating, and the pressure to produce perfect work can paralyze even the most seasoned writer.
Overcoming this fear involves acknowledging that first drafts are meant to be imperfect. Each draft and revision is a learning experience and helps you hone your skills.
2. The Perfectionism Trap
Perfectionism often goes hand in hand with writing procrastination. The desire for flawless work, whether an article, a book, or another project, can lead to overthinking and constant self-editing. This will hinder your progress.
Accept the idea that the initial stages of your work will be imperfect. Even your most polished work may have one or two errors.
You might consider using an editing tool like Grammarly or ProWritingAid. But even these programs can miss things.
The best you can do is, well, your best.
3. Lack of Motivation
Writing can be a solitary and challenging endeavor, making it easy to lose motivation.
Lack of a clear purpose or passion for the topic can contribute to procrastination.
As a fiction ghostwriter and rewriter, there are times I don’t feel enthused about a project topic. But I’ve found that diving into the story, writing, and researching can ignite a spark.
4. Overwhelm
If your work plate is overflowing, you may feel it’s too much to handle. You may not know what to do first or how to organize the work.
This can cause anxiety, which creates procrastination.
5. Lack of a Clear Next Step
Another procrastination catalyst is if you have a project that makes you question your ability or doesn’t easily offer a clear next step.
Every writer, at one time or another, has questioned their ability to do a project.
Or maybe you take on a project you’re unsure how to start or plot out.
Either of these situations can cause pause, which can lead to procrastination.
STRATEGIES TO OVERCOME WRITING PROCRASTINATION
1. Set Realistic Goals:
The first step is to break down the writing project into smaller, manageable goals or steps.
Instead of charging ahead and planning to write an entire article in one sitting, focus on completing a specific portion or reaching a predetermined word count.
If it’s a book you’re writing, do the same. Create a goal of a certain number of words per week.
This makes the task more manageable and doable.
2. Create a Writing Schedule:
This can be difficult for some. I’m one of those writers. But try your best to establish a consistent writing routine that works with your peak productivity times.
Whether early in the morning or late at night, having a dedicated time slot for writing helps build discipline and reduces the likelihood of procrastination.
3. Break Large or Multiple Projects into Digestible Chunks
If you’re in a freelance ‘feast’ period and have multiple projects or large ones, pace yourself.
As part of your writing schedule, allot time for each project. Break down larger projects, or more difficult ones, into manageable portions.
It can get tricky if you’re juggling seven or eight clients, especially if you have to put out fires and read and respond to numerous emails, but try to keep to the schedule you’ve created.
If you get derailed, jump back on track as soon as possible.
And remember to breathe.
4. Use Timed Writing Sessions:
Embrace the Pomodoro Technique or similar time management methods to structure your writing sessions.
The idea behind time management strategies is to set a timer for a specific duration. It could be 30 minutes or even 50 minutes. During this time, you focus solely on writing.
You don’t want to go for too long without a break because you want to maintain concentration and prevent burnout. You also don’t want to sit for too long a period.
5. Banish Distractions:
Identify and eliminate potential distractions from your writing environment.
Turn off notifications, close unnecessary tabs, and create a quiet space conducive to concentration. Although some of you may be more productive if there is music in the background. I like it quiet.
Consider using productivity tools that block distracting websites during designated writing times.
Or, even better, go offline for the period you’re working on your clients’ projects. This is what I do.
6. Embrace Imperfection:
Accept that your initial drafts will not be perfect. Give yourself permission to get the draft down, even if it’s written poorly in the first round. Realize that the real magic happens during the editing and revision stages.
This shift in mindset can alleviate the pressure that often leads to procrastination.
7. Seek Accountability:
If you need support, share your writing goals with a friend, writing group, coach, or mentor who can provide support and accountability.
Knowing that someone else is aware of your project goals can motivate you to stay on track and overcome the temptation to procrastinate.
If you don’t need the support or don’t have it, hold yourself accountable.
SUMMING IT UP
Breaking the habit of writing procrastination requires a combination of self-awareness, effective time management, and a shift in mindset.
By understanding the root causes and implementing targeted strategies, you can transform writing from a daunting task into an achievable one.
Accept imperfection, set realistic goals, and establish a writing routine that works for you. Remember, confronting challenges with determination is the key to becoming a successful writer.
I’m a working children’s ghostwriter, book doctor, editor, and self-publishing consultant. I help turn your idea, outline, or manuscript into a book you’ll be proud to call your own—and provide hands-on guidance through every step of the self-publishing process.
OTHER HELP I OFFER:
CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOK AND CHAPTER BOOK COACHING
4- to 12-week programs
HOW TO WRITE A CHILDREN’S FICTION BOOK
A 200+ page DIY book that will help you write your own children’s book.
WRITERS ON THE MOVE SELF-PUBLISHING GUIDANCE & SERVICES
Self-publishing help for children’s authors.
You can contact me at kcioffiventrice@gmail.com.
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