One of the fun aspects of being a writer are those days, weeks, and if you’re lucky – months, where your imagination is full of ideas.
It may not happen often. However, when it does happen why not capitalize on it?
Many writers feel the need to focus on one story and stick with it until the story is finished.
This can feel like shackles if you’re feeling uninspired about a particular story or you’re ignoring fantastic ideas for other material. Don’t sacrifice a future story for the present.
Learn to Juggle!
No, not literally juggle. I tried that once and decided I was better off finding a sexy man who could juggle – I did too!
However, I did learn to juggle multiple writing projects. Here are my tips for success, and survival:
1. Create Systems – I keep each manuscript in a different folder both on my computer and on my desk. Yep, I have a 3-ring binder for each story I’m working on and a designated notebook because I often write longhand. If you prefer, check out Scrivener which is a software system that organizes your stories. It has, in my opinion, a steep learning curve, but many writers swear by it and say that it is well worth the time it took to learn how to use it. It’s pretty inexpensive, $40, and they offer a free trial. http://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener.php
2. Go With What Feels Right – You might wake up with a plan to work on one story but your characters from the other are knocking on your door. Go with it. Or break up your day and work on both stories. Creative writing is a process and as much as we try to control the process, sometimes we just have to let go and enjoy the ride. Embrace the inspiration and ideas you’re having at the moment, regardless of where they come from or where they’re going. Have faith in yourself and your personal writing process.
3. Get Feedback – When you’re deeply immersed in several different stories it can be difficult to step back and assess them with a critical eye. That’s fine. That’s what critique partners and beta readers are for. Write to your heart’s content and let the muse work without self-editing and internal criticism and ask others to help you get clarity on the material.
Enjoy the writing process and be prolific!