Scheduling considerations for online writers

There are so many factors to consider when making a writing schedule!

A time schedule while writing online may sound strange or silly to those new to the game. Writing online seems like a very easy going lifestyle to those who aren't in it. Those of us who have been at it for a few years or even a few months know better. There are so many factors to consider when making a writing schedule!

Schedule in plenty of time for family, friends and other activities.

Online writers sometimes have to schedule around friends and family to fit in their writing. Writing online takes a lot of PR work. Promoting your work for increased page views can take up a lot of time all by itself. Don't forget to leave time for your personal life. Sometimes clocking out is just as important as clocking in. What can an online writer do to schedule time to write and still fulfill other obligations?

Leave time to support other online writers.

Read what they have written. Since these people read your articles, it's only fair to read and promote theirs.

Social networking is vital.

Writing online often means being paid per click or page view. It's very important to schedule time to promote articles through social networking. Still, the true value in social networking lies in creating friendships with fellow writers.

Education keeps online writing quality in check.

The online writer must schedule time to learn more about producing articles that are well written and search engine optimized. Quality writing is the only writing that sells. Each day the online writer must schedule time to learn more about their craft. Online writing is just like any business in this respect. Writers must hone their skills if they wish to remain a member of the online writing community in good standing.

Creating your actual writing schedule:

When making up your writing schedule, consider the most important person in your day. It's you! Your writing habits, strengths and weaknesses all determine how you spend your writing day. For instance, I work better in the morning, early in the week, whereas, some of my writer friends work better in the midnight hours or under deadline pressure.

Some other considerations:

• Where and when do you prefer to write?
• Where and when are you most productive?
• Do you work better alone or with plenty of company?
• Is there a certain activity that invariably distracts you from writing?
  

Scheduling isn't just about you.

When my partner's home, I'd much rather spend time with him than write. So, I do my work when he's at his job. This has the added bonus of giving us both the same days off so we can spend more time together. Is there anything more annoying than having someone you're trying to spend time with occupied online? I think not. So, when you schedule your writing hours, keep the people who care about you in mind as well.