Structuring Unstructured Time
Or How to Write When You have Too Much Time on Your Hands
by Rochelle Melander
It’s not that we have little time, but more that we waste a good deal of it. –Seneca
For years, clients have said to me, “I’ll write the next time I have a free day.” Then when the day comes, they get nothing done.
Like many of my clients, I don’t do well with big batches of time. I squander them. I get overwhelmed. I don’t know where to start. I end up doing other things—like cleaning the house or hanging out on social media. But I’m worried. And usually not by doing something I want to do. No, I get distracted by social media and before long, it’s time to go back to work, and I haven’t written a word!
The pattern is clear: we write better when we have external structure. When that disappears, we get stuck.
The Quest
To make the most of long, uninterrupted time, it’s helpful to create your own structure. What kind of structure you choose is up to you.
Checking in
Before you even begin, consider how you’re feeling emotionally and physically. Sometimes feeling overwhelmed or distracted is a sign that you really need to rest. If you feel energized by the idea of writing, move forward!
Setting Goals
What do you want to accomplish with your writing time? Make a list. After each task, it’s helpful to note what you need to do for the task. For example, if you’re planning to write an essay on the increase in ADHD diagnosis in adults, you might note the statistics, any stories you want to share, and tips for managing a mid-life diagnosis.
Adding Structure
There are many ways to add external structure to your writing time. Think of the following items as a menu. Select what works for you and your needs. You can also bundle these together for bonus successes!
Time box. Schedule your free time in blocks, giving each block a task. As mentioned above, it can be helpful to note what you need to do for each task.
Use the Pomodoro Technique. Choose a task from your list. Set a timer for 25 minutes and work until the timer goes off. Take a five-minute energizing break. Repeat as needed.
Add a friend. If you have other people in your life who need to get tasks done, work together online or in real life. It can help
Managing Distractions
Eliminate distractions. Take away the most challenging distractions—your phone, email, and other things that demand your time and attention. If you struggle with this, get an app like FREEDOM to help you.
Add energy boosts. Not all distractions are equal. Some increase our ability to focus, like a walk in the park. Make a list of healthy distractions that you can use during your breaks to increase your ability to pay attention. They may include exercise, cleaning, making art, playing an instrument, or dancing.
Review
After trying this for a day, evaluate what worked and what didn’t work. If your first attempt didn’t work, try something new.
Pro Tip: It’s hard to manage long hours of uninterrupted time. Start small—with one- or two-hour slots. When you have a win, you can increase your time.
For the win
Figuring out how to make the most of free writing time takes practice. Be patient with yourself and keep trying.
If you need more help, try adding one of my groups in the New Year.
Writing Goddess Group: https://writenowcoach.com/writing-goddess-group/
Writing Accountability Group: https://writenowcoach.com/writing-accountability-group/
Show Up and Write: https://writenowcoach.com/show-up-and-write-writing-circles/
Write Now! Coach Rochelle Melander is an author and ADHD-trained professional certified coach. She’s helped hundreds of people write and publish books. If you’re struggling to start or finish a project, connect with Rochelle to create a personalized plan for overcoming procrastination, dealing with distraction, and staying focused. Book a private consultation: https://writenowcoach.com/consultation/
