How Authors Find Time to Read and Write Amidst Busy Schedules

Have you ever wondered how authors manage to squeeze in both reading and writing into their hectic lives? From high school assignments to corporate jobs, the concept of dedicating time for leisure reading or creative writing can seem overwhelming. However, many authors have successfully figured out how to make this balance work. Let's dive into their strategies and explore how you can too.

Techniques for Finding Reading Time

One common technique is to maximize small moments in time. Many authors find that they can read quite a lot by fitting reading into these smaller, fragmented periods. For instance, waiting for an appointment, sitting on the toilet, or even during lunch breaks can turn into productive reading time. Contrary to popular belief, it's astonishing how much content you can absorb during these brief intervals. Imagine turning your commute or wait times into dedicated reading moments—imagine the progress you could make!

My Experience

While I still buy books and stack them up, truth be told, I haven’t been reading them as often as I’d like to. This might be due to my busy schedule and the lack of time for leisure reading. However, this doesn't mean that reading is not valued. It just means that I need to find a way to incorporate it into my routine.

Commitment to a Writing Career

If writing is to be a career, it requires a significant sacrifice in terms of time. Unlike other professions where work can permeate every moment of the day, a writing career necessitates setting aside specific times for writing and revising. For me, I have dedicated 8 hours a day, spanning 6 days a week, to either writing or revision. This structured time allows me to focus and push through periods of the creative process.

Importance of Discipline and Rest

Discipline plays a crucial role in managing time for both reading and writing. It's not only about carving out time for these activities but also about using that time effectively. Divide your time into segments dedicated to reading, writing, resting, and idleness. Rest and idleness are not idle time—they are essential for the brain to process information and for creativity to flourish.

Idleness, in particular, helps writers by providing a break from the structured routine and allowing for fresh insights and ideas to emerge. While recharging, the subconscious mind continues to work on your writing, solving puzzles and refining ideas that might have been elusive during structured work sessions.

Conclusion

While time management is a challenge for many, authors have found innovative ways to incorporate reading and writing into their lives. By maximizing small moments, adhering to a strict schedule, and valuing the importance of rest and idleness, it is possible to make more time for both reading and writing. Remember, the key is discipline and a well-structured routine. Are you ready to make a change and improve your reading and writing habits?

Keywords: author time management, reading habits, writing career

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